WHY WE RUN: Chevron Houston Marathon runners' inspirational stories

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Saturday, January 14, 2017
Chevron Houston Marathon: Why We Run
For many runners, a marathon is more than just a workout.

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Marathon running is the ultimate triumph of the human spirit. For these inspirational Houstonians, pounding the pavement this weekend will be so much more than just a workout.

If you're gearing up to cheer them on this Sunday, check out our list of the best places to watch the marathon action.

Crystal: The marathoner who overcame paralysis

In the ten years since she has overcome paralysis, Crystal Hadnott has run over 100 marathons.

The Samans: The family who runs together stays together

Meet the Samans, a family of five distance runners.

Leslie: From volunteer to runner on her 40th birthday

After years of volunteering at the finish line, Leslie is running her first marathon on her 40th birthday.

Charlie: An HPD officer on a mission

After raising $5,000 for charity, HPD C.A. Charlie Vazquez is running the marathon in full uniform.

Letesia: 'I want to feel free'

"I'm on the way to becoming the best version of myself," says Leteisia Knox, who has lost 80 pounds since she began running.

Zane: Even the youngest of runners gets in on the fun

Meet 8-year-old Zane Hawthorne, a Houston Food Bank volunteer who says running has changed his life.

Jim: 83-year-old adds to his medal collection

"The key to feeling young and strong is vigorous exercise," says 83-year-old marathoner Jim.

Chad: Running for the Texas Children's Hospital NICU

Chad Stevens is running his first marathon in honor of daughter Olivia, who spent 57 days in the NICU at Texas Children's Hospital.

Meet the runners of Memorial Park

Memorial Park is a hub for runners in Houston, brimming with athletes who have overcome remarkable obstacles to pound the pavement.

The Houston Marathon Foundation: Making running accessible for everybody

"You don't have to be a cross country star or a future Olympian to enjoy the benefits of running," says Houston Marathon Foundation director Wade Morehead.

Chevron gives back to the Bayou City

Houston marathon title sponsor Chevron is passionate about giving back to the city it calls home.

ABB supports the Houston running community

ABB, title sponsor of the 5K race, is pleased to support Houston athletes.

Stay with ABC13.com for complete coverage of the Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Houston Half Marathon, and tune to ABC13 on Sunday, January 15 for live coverage on race day.