The Extra Mile - The Official Charity Miles Podcast: Brian Kendrick

Brian Kendrick - It’s Always Comeback Season

Nov 16, 2019

Today on the Extra Mile, we’re back at the Javits Center in New York City where I spent some time with my buddy Brian Kendrick as he stepped into his first Marathon Expo for his first-ever marathon run.

As I’ve mentioned previously, this year I trained for the marathon with an awesome group called The Brooklyn Track Club, which was where Brian and I met. If you don’t know The Brooklyn Track Club and you’re a runner in New York City, I highly recommend you check them out. Training with them was so fun and kept me focused, motivated, and making awesome new running friends like Brian.

I knew that I wanted to interview someone for the podcast who was running their first marathon. I’ve been wanting to capture that buzzing feeling of stepping into the Expo, getting your first number, and experiencing the energy of the space for the first time. So when I asked if this was anyone in our group’s first marathon and Brian raised his hand, I thought, “Great! Mission accomplished.” Turns out Brian has a really interesting story, too. Double-win!

Back in March, Brian was in San Diego for a conference and was jumped outside of his hotel. The attack resulted in a long hospital stay and metal plate in his face. It also resulted in his decision to sign up for the New York City Marathon. Two days after her was released, Brian knew he wanted to run a marathon. And he knew he wanted NYC to be his first.

It was a powerful mental and physical motivator for him- a way for him to rebuild the health of mind, body, and spirit. Additionally, he was connected by a friend to the nonprofit City Harvest which became his cause and an added inspiring force.

Brian is fast. He’s not just a strong runner; he is a true contender. In this episode, you’ll hear him say a number of times, “I just got chills.” I know just what that feels like and I couldn’t be more excited for him and his future in this sport.

A big thanks for letting me tag along and for sharing his story and experience with us. Best of luck, Brian!