09/22/2026
In Fall 2022, we had an idea to get a group together for a 60-mile relay on the Coast. Looking back, I had no clue it would kick off a four-year running arc, or that it would run side-by-side with some of the biggest life shifts I’ve ever navigated.
Crossing the finish line this weekend of the Spartan Beast 21K + 30 Obstacles with my teammates, Dominic and Chris, and with Ruth at the finish line, was the culmination of this chapter. The camaraderie in these races, before, during, and after, and most importantly, Ruth and I getting to work out with our kids these last two years and even standing at the finish lines to celebrate their own race accomplishments, are memories I will never forget.
What’s Next? (IYKYK)
Focusing on building my real estate business with more to come in Q4, helping clients buy and sell in Grays Harbor, enjoying every moment of our new “sports parent” era, navigating the 5-month holiday season (September 1 through Super Bowl Sunday), and building leg and core strength to try and keep up with Ruth and the kids on the slopes this winter.
As for my next organized, competitive race? I have my sights set on getting “The Average Joe-Vengers” into Ski to Sea in Bellingham in May 2027. Want to join?
Special thanks: Jim Erwin-Svoboda Chris Thomas Dominic Viola Ruth Erwin-Svoboda
LFG.