Jason Jones hopes to run at least a half marathon in every U.S. state, and he’s more than halfway to his goal as he takes on the Boston Marathon.
Jason Jones knows about dedication.
Born in New Jersey, Jones ran track in high school and started doing long-distance races at age 19. He credits the inspiration in part to good examples.
“My sister ran a marathon when I was 20 and she was 40,” Jones recalled. “There was just a real sense of community, and it was great being in that atmosphere of such extreme athletes.”
His passion for endurance challenges led him to complete full marathons, a Spartan Trifecta Weekend and a 19-mile trail race. Along with his sister and two brothers, he’s set a goal of running at least a half marathon in every U.S. state and has completed 32 states so far. Massachusetts will mark his 33rd when he takes on the Boston Marathon on April 21.
“It’s kind of turned into a mini family reunion and a great way to explore the country,” Jones shared.
This is a country he’s done his part to protect. Following in the footsteps of his military parents, Jones joined the Army to afford college, earning a bachelor’s degree and now finishing his doctorate in strategic leadership at Liberty University. He became a Green Beret and served in multiple countries, and now he declares himself a service “lifer.”
Reflecting on his resilience and perseverance, Jones said, “I read somewhere that the people you hang out with and books you read determine who you become; and I guess I hung around a competitive crowd!”
His girlfriend, Audrey, not only is a military comrade but also a running partner; the two have set a goal to complete all seven major marathons together. She’ll join him on the track in Boston.
It seems appropriate that the Framingham resident who helps to guard “the land of the free” will run to benefit Hopkinton Area Land Trust (hopkintonlandtrust.org/marathon), an organization responsible for managing conservation land. According to its website, “Keeping our most valuable landscapes intact protects water and air quality, agricultural resources, open space, plant and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation opportunities, and contributes to a better quality of life in our community.”
Jason: Just made a contribution to the Hopkinton Area Land Trust to support your goal as a charity runner. Good luck next Monday.