Dean Karnazes

You cannot grow and expand your capabilities to their limits without running the risk of failure. And failure can provide invaluable lessons.

Dean Karnazes

Awakenings are always terrifying as they force you to realize your past has been lived in confinement, the most disturbing part is when you recognize that the shackle holding you down are largely once you have placed upon yourself, the prison is self constructed.

Dean Karnazes

Beyond racing, I just love the art form of running, of conceiving new ideas like the 50 Marathons in 50 States in 50 Days. It’s the ultimate expression of what I love to do, which is run, and travel, and see this great country.

Dean Karnazes

But struggling and suffering, as I now saw it, were the essence of a life worth living. If you’re not pushing yourself beyond the comfort zone, if you’re not constantly demanding more from yourself-expanding and learning as you go-you’re choosing a numb existence. You’re denying yourself an extraordinary trip.

Dean Karnazes

For me, as for so many runners, there really are no finish lines. Runs end; running doesn’t.

Dean Karnazes

I didn’t go up there to die, I went up there to live.

Dean Karnazes

I do a lot of marathons as training runs. If I’m somewhere and there’s a marathon, I’ll sign up and just go run it.

Dean Karnazes

I don’t know if I’m so much fueled by trying to one-up myself so much as passionate about coming up with new and greater challenges. I don’t see it as a contest, but as a natural progression.

Dean Karnazes

I love surfing, rock climbing, cycling – all that stuff. But it’s just amazing that I can inspire people with my running. It’s humbling, really.

Dean Karnazes

I never feel more alive than when I’m in great pain, struggling against insurmountable odds and untold adversity. Hardship? Suffering? Bring it!

Dean Karnazes