Jackson Hole, Wyoming — When Kathryn Clark crosses the finish line at the Jackson Hole Marathon on Sept. 26, she will complete a challenge that has taken her more than two decades, 49 races and countless miles.
The 47-year-old Ohio doctor and mother of four sons has already run a marathon in every state except Wyoming. Her upcoming race will be her 50th marathon in her 50th state, bringing an extraordinary personal goal to its final chapter.
Clark, a family medicine physician at the Cleveland Clinic, is also using the milestone to raise $10,000 for blood cancer research and patient support through the nonprofit organization Blood Cancer United.
Running Became More Than Exercise
Clark began her marathon journey in her mid-20s, when she, her husband and their three children moved out of state.
Before then, she said she had never been much of a runner. But with young children at home, running became a practical way to stay active without spending much money or relying on a complicated schedule.
“You can run any time, for as long or as short as you want,” Clark explained. “All you need are some running shoes.”
Over time, however, running became much more meaningful.
Clark and her family experienced secondary infertility and repeated miscarriages, experiences she said were difficult both mentally and physically. Running gradually changed from a simple fitness activity into something more personal and cathartic.
As the distances grew, so did the challenge.
A friend eventually encouraged Clark to try a half marathon. After completing that race, she decided to attempt a full marathon — a decision that ultimately launched her remarkable 50-marathon, 50-state journey.
Every State Brought a Different Memory
Clark’s 49 races have given her memories that go far beyond finish times.
She remembers Utah as the most challenging, while Colorado was especially meaningful because it marked her first marathon after five years away from running, including recovery from knee surgery.
Hawaii became memorable because the trip coincided with her 10th wedding anniversary, while Arizona gave her an opportunity to begin fundraising for blood cancer causes.
Other races brought equally unusual experiences.
In South Dakota, the race began at the Crazy Horse Monument at sunrise. In North Carolina, Clark was breastfeeding her youngest child. North Dakota marked the first time she traveled completely alone for a marathon.
In Chicago, she and her friends even got matching tattoos.
Moose, Medical Emergencies and a Vegas Wedding
Some of Clark’s memories are almost impossible to recreate. During her Alaska marathon, a moose appeared on the course and apparently was not interested in sharing the roadway.
In Missouri, Clark’s medical background came into play when she stopped to help an unconscious race participant until emergency medical personnel arrived.
And during her Nevada trip, Clark and a friend unexpectedly crashed the Las Vegas wedding of a couple who had been on their flight.
Georgia, meanwhile, holds a simpler distinction: it was her fastest marathon.
Final Race Will Support Blood Cancer Causes
Clark says the marathon journey has taught her how to adapt as life changes.
“[This challenge] has been a lesson in adaptability and prompted adjustments in the face of ever-changing life circumstances,” she said.
Now, with Wyoming remaining as her final state, she is experiencing a mixture of emotions. She says she feels grateful for the opportunity, reflective about everything the journey has brought and relieved that it is almost over.
After 49 states, Clark still isn’t certain what comes next.
She has floated possibilities including visiting all of the U.S. National Parks or training for an Ironman. Whatever she chooses, one thing appears certain: Clark’s next chapter will involve more travel and more adventures.
For now, though, her attention is on Jackson Hole, where 26.2 miles stand between her and the completion of a goal that began more than 20 years ago.
What do you think Kathryn Clark should take on after completing her 50-marathon challenge? Share your ideas and thoughts in the comments below.
