From Pine Valley to the Finish Line: Local Graduate Takes on the World Marathon Challenge

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From Pine Valley to the Finish Line: Local Graduate Takes on the World Marathon Challenge

Casey Snyder, originally from Cherry Creek, is gearing up to take on the World Marathon Challenge. In just a few days, he will run seven marathons in seven days across seven continents, starting in Antarctica and finishing in Miami, Florida.

Snyder has 168 hours to cover a total of 295 kilometers (183.3 miles). The challenge kicks off at Ultima Basecamp in Antarctica on January 31. After that, he will travel to Cape Town, South Africa, then on to Perth, Australia. Following those races, he’ll run in Dubai (Asia), Madrid, Spain (Europe), Fortaleza, Brazil (South America), and finally return to Miami by February 6 to complete the challenge.

The World Marathon Challenge, which began in 2015, provides competitors with an incredible opportunity to set records, recognized by the Guinness Book of Records. This year, fewer than 100 runners are participating, and contestants will be flown by charter plane between locations around the world.

Snyder’s journey to this point has been driven by his passion for running. An athlete since his youth, he played baseball and soccer in college and has participated in numerous races since. He ran his first marathon in Miami about 15 years ago and has completed marathons in all 50 states, finishing that goal just before his 40th birthday.

For Snyder, running isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about setting a positive example for his 8-year-old son, Brady. His motivation stems from wanting to show Brady that hard work and dedication can lead to accomplishing seemingly impossible goals. Snyder has maintained a daily running streak of two miles for over 4,000 consecutive days, a commitment he started many years before Brady was born.

“For me, running is a necessity,” Snyder said. “I always need to work towards something.” His commitment continues to push him, as he now faces the daunting task of completing seven marathons in a challenging week.

As he prepares, Snyder is mindful of the unique challenges he’ll face. The harsh conditions in Antarctica are particularly daunting, and while he has experience with back-to-back marathons, the idea of running seven times in a row is new. He’s been increasing his daily mileage to get ready and is taking steps to stay injury-free.

Currently living in New Jersey, Snyder still feels a strong connection to western New York, where he grew up. He credits important figures from his childhood, including coaches and mentors, for helping shape his athletic path during tough times.

Snyder now runs a consulting business and is involved in the solar energy sector. His work with Trinity Solar and the Find a Way organization has also helped make this ambitious marathon challenge possible.

The conclusion of this epic journey—his seventh marathon in one week—will take place in Miami, where he first began his marathon running. This time, he will have his son cheering him on at the finish line, a testament to the goals he has worked for and the values he hopes to inspire in Brady.



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