Capital Striders

Congratulations to John Taylor on completing his 31st Boston Marathon!

As a member of the Quarter Century Club, John has completed at least 25 consecutive Boston Marathons, earning guaranteed entry into the race. This year, he proudly wore the club's special commemorative bib, which brought well-deserved congratulations from fellow runners and spectators.

After recovering from his second hip replacement in just 18 months, John showed remarkable determination by walking and running his way to another finish on one of running's biggest stages. He is already looking ahead to 2027, when he plans to complete his 32nd Boston Marathon.

Have a recent accomplishment to share? Whether it's a race result, a personal best, or a training milestone, we'd love to celebrate with you. Email [email protected] and tell us about it. We want to cheer right alongside you.

As we wrap up the year, the Capital Striders can reflect on a year of miles, friendship, and community.

The year started with the Annual Mitten Run & Potluck , which warmed hearts and raised funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa. It was running at its best. Simple, generous, and rooted in the community. That spirit carried through our cornerstone races. Loop the Lake tested patience and pacing. Capital Pursuit brought speed and grit to Easter Lake. To Grandmother’s House We Go blended tradition with leaf-covered miles. The Sycamore 8 Trail Race pushed us off the pavement and reminded us that strength is built on uneven ground.

Week after week, Saturday morning runs showed what consistency looks like. No fanfare. Just people showing up for each other. Summer track workouts brought back the basics. Laps, effort, coaching from the sidelines, and the quiet satisfaction of doing hard things together.

Most important were the people. New friendships formed. Old ones deepened. Personal bests were achieved. First races, longest runs, comeback miles, and quiet milestones. The Capital Striders continue to prove that running is not only about speed or distance. It is about belonging, discipline, and shared purpose.

We will carry that forward into the miles ahead.

Photo: Terry Kruse