A former runner.
Back from retirement.
At 36, chasing the U.S. Olympic Trials standard in the marathon.
Hello, I’m Derek.
I’m a runner—again.
After a 13-year break from competitive running, I returned to the sport almost by accident. What started as a challenge to run a sub-3 marathon quickly became something more serious.
Today, I’m training with intention, balancing a full-time career while chasing a long-term goal most would consider unrealistic: qualifying for the 2028 U.S. Olympic Trials in the marathon.
<2:16:00
Olympic Trials Standard
2:33:46
Debut Marathon
3:00:00
Boston (BQ) Standard
2:18:00
Next Race Target
2:22:27
Current Marathon PR
There are no shortcuts.
Only one foot after the other.
The Journal
Stories and reflections on the work, the races, and the long pursuit behind chasing a marathon standard.
Next marathon on
the calendar
California International Marathon
December 6, 2026 · Sacramento, California