Celebrating a 20 Year Quest

One of the things I absolutely love is when friends have a special project or a quest they’re working on...something big, meaningful, and uniquely theirs.

When someone is passionate about something, I could listen to them talk about it all day. And when they commit to something over years or decades, I find it deeply inspiring.

Our friend Ken Whiting just completed a quest he has been on for the last 20 years. Let me say that again: twenty years.

His quest? Running a marathon in every single state.

On October 18th, in New Jersey, Ken crossed the finish line of his 50th state. With that final marathon, he completed an extraordinary journey that stretched across two decades.

To celebrate, our old Rotary running group got together for beer, appetizers, stories, and some well-earned laughter. It felt like old times—and it felt like a moment worth pausing for.

Because what Ken did is rare.

I did a little research:

• Less than 1% of Americans have ever run a marathon.

• And only about 5,500 Americans have run a marathon in all 50 states.

Think about that. A 20-year adventure. 50 races. 50 starting lines. 50 finish lines. And uncountable miles of training, commitment, and determination in between.

Ken has lived a QTR life through this entire pursuit...collecting memories, stories, friendships, and adventures along the way. His quest wasn’t just about running. It was about experiencing the country, meeting people, and doing something that brought him joy.

And that’s what QTR is all about: Finding what brings you joy, saying yes to the adventure, and staying committed to what lights you up.

Ken didn’t just run 50 marathons. He lived 50 chapters of a story he’ll remember for the rest of his life.

Congratulations, Ken, on your most excellent adventure. We are proud of you. And we’re inspired by you.

Cheers to QTR—and cheers to the next adventure!

#qualitytimeremaining

Ken with his "Bucket List" shirt