“Run, Nathan, Run!” Finishes Strong

What began last summer as a fanciful “what if?” ended this month in an amazing show of grit and determination as FORCE BLUE’s Nathan Quinn crossed the finish line at the famed Marathon des Sables in Morocco, the final road race of the “1,000K for Dr. J” campaign he began back in October. With the goal of raising awareness for FORCE BLUE and honoring the legacy of our late teammate, Dr. Wallace “J” Nichols, Nathan logged over 1,000 kilometers in 11 long-distance running events across four continents. True to the tradition J began, he also handed out over 1,000 blue marbles to individuals he encountered along the way, inspiring them to begin or to expand their own relationship with water.

“In six months I ran 730 waterside kilometers to spread the word about FORCE BLUE and the Blue Mind movement created by my friend Dr. Wallace J. Nichols,” said Nathan.

“To close out the project I flew to the Sahara desert to attempt ‘the most difficult footrace in the world.’ The MDS is the ‘Sand Marathon,’ 6.5 marathons in 6.5 days with all my food and camping gear on my back. Additionally, they asked me to carry a radio and med pack to serve as one of 12 running medics on my 170-mile journey.

Stage 4 was 62 miles of sand dunes and jagged rocks and gave me more than enough time to listen to the audiobook of Blue Mind one more time. The desert has a way of reminding you how wonderful it can be to stare out at an endless ocean or across a beautiful lake.

1,000K is a long way to go, but we’re just getting started. The Blue Mind movement has many more miles in it and FORCE BLUE has dozens of upcoming projects. I look forward to helping both whenever I can.

Thanks to all who ran with me, donated, or helped to spread the word. I am grateful for your help, and I wish you water.”