Grindstone 100k Ultramarathon in Natural Chimneys Park, Virginia

In Hebrews 12:1-2, Paul writes, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”

On Sept. 20th, I am racing the Grindstone 100k in the Shenandoah Valley. After two official 50k’s and more in training, I will be doubling my distance over 11k ft. of vertical gain. It will be a grueling test of my fitness, fortitude, and faith. It is both a step of a long term personal goal, and an inspired opportunity to steward my blessings towards something extraordinary.

My passion for endurance racing is rooted in scripture and inseparable from my testimony. I learned to know God on foot, pouring out in worship and exercising the habits that fortify my faith. Chief of these, and the challenge of Paul to believers, is endurance. Ultra-running requires a balance of relentless pursuit and patience, just like the narrow path. Every day I lace up my shoes, I hope that each step would bring praise to the Lord, sharpen my faith, and demonstrate the freedom of life, unchained. 

I’ve partnered with Unchained to raise money for the non-profit’s ministry to incarcerated young men in the Davidson County Juvenile Detention Center. Leaders in the ministry go into the facility every Sunday to preach, workout, and connect with these young men. In short, we show up with consistency and love, and the trust we’ve built over nearly a year has already led to salvations and true brotherhood.

Currently, we’re walking in and out with bibles until we have enough for everyone to share in the Word together. Many of the boys only have access to God’s word once a week, and we want their relationship with the Lord to be unrestricted.

My goal is to raise enough money for 62 bibles, one for every mile, and enough to give every young man tangible access to the Word. In Ephesians 6:17, Paul describes the Word as the “sword of the Spirit,” and our conviction at Unchained isn’t to save young men from spiritual warfare, it’s to equip them for it.

Thank you for your support! If financial giving isn’t feasible, we kindly ask that you intercede in prayer for the overlooked in our community, be it in this facility or out. God bless!