Pursuit Of A Goal: Clay Deveau’s Marathon Journey

/March 13, 2024

When we make the decision to give endurance sports a try, we don’t realized the power in the pursuit of a goal. We just get started, nervous and anxious because we don’t know what is about to happen. Maybe we were athletes in high school but this endeavor is different. The unknown lurks around every corner including what we hope to accomplish. For Clay Deveau, an everyday athlete with a remarkable journey, this pursuit has been nothing short of life-changing. From battling anxiety during the pandemic to becoming a seasoned runner gearing up for his first full marathon, Clay’s story is the pursuit of a goal through resilience, determination, and the triumph of the human spirit.

Finding Solace in Running

Like many, Clay’s journey into running began amidst the chaos of the Covid-19 pandemic. As an educator navigating the sudden shift to remote teaching, anxiety levels soared, and stress took its toll. Determined to prove his physical well-being, Clay turned to running as a means of coping. “I need to prove that I’m okay,” he recalls, reflecting on the palpitations and stress-induced health issues that plagued him in 2020.

Starting with small steps, both literally and metaphorically, Clay gradually built up his mileage. However, setbacks were inevitable, with injuries sidelining him repeatedly. Yet, each setback fueled his determination to find a way forward. “I had to figure out how to not get hurt,” he said, setting his sights on overcoming the obstacles that stood in his path.

From 5Ks to Half Marathons: A Journey Unfolds

Clay’s journey reached a pivotal moment in November 2022, as he lined up for his first 5K race. Amidst the bustling crowds and snow-covered paths of the local zoo, he embarked on a race that would mark the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Crossing the finish line in 28 minutes, Clay felt a surge of pride and accomplishment. “I was just so happy to be done, to check that off the list,” he recalls, cherishing his pursuit of a goal and accomplishing it. The finish line was made better because it was a moment he shared with his family.

Motivated by the success of his first race, Clay’s journey progressed rapidly. With each race, from the Derby Festival half marathon to subsequent events, his confidence grew. The anxiety that once gripped him began to wane as he embraced the challenges of training and racing. “I knew what I was doing here,” he reflects on his second half marathon, feeling a sense of assurance in his abilities.

Setting Sights on New Horizons: The Marathon Beckons

As Clay’s journey evolved, so did his aspirations. With the support of his family and the invaluable lessons learned from his coach, he now stands on the brink of his most ambitious challenge yet: the full marathon. Despite lingering doubts and fears, Clay remains resolute in his pursuit of a 3-hour and 30-minute goal.

Completing a marathon in 3 hours and 30 minutes takes a lot of consistent and hard work. Life can get in the way which may derail plans. Balancing the demands of work, family, and training is no easy feat, yet Clay approaches each day with unwavering determination. Through meticulous planning and unwavering commitment, he navigates the intricate dance of life’s competing priorities. “Planning is huge,” he acknowledges, highlighting the importance of foresight and preparation in maintaining equilibrium.

A Journey of Self-Belief and Endurance

As Clay’s marathon journey unfolds, it gives us a glimpse into the fact that self-belief and perseverance while in the pursuit of a goal is paramount. In the face of adversity, he continues to bet on himself, embracing the challenges that lie ahead with unwavering resolve. “You’ve got to bet on yourself,” he affirms, echoing the mantra he imparts to his players as a coach.

In Clay Deveau’s story, we find inspiration and hope—a reminder that the path to achieving our dreams is often fraught with obstacles. Yet, it is through enjoying the journey, with all its twists and turns, that we discover the strength within ourselves to triumph against the odds. As Clay prepares to unveil his marathon journey in the months to come, we eagerly await the next chapter in this remarkable tale of resilience and determination.

Jason Bahamundi Run Tri Bike Magazine Owner Triathlete Ultra Runner Trail Runner

Jason Bahamundi, founder of Run Tri Bike, is a passionate and accomplished endurance athlete dedicated to proving that there is a spot at the starting line for everybody and every body. With a background deeply rooted in the world of triathlons, running, and cycling, Jason has not only excelled in his personal athletic endeavors but is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive world of endurance sports. This led him to establish Run Tri Bike, a platform that serves as a hub for enthusiasts to connect, share experiences, and access valuable resources. Jason's genuine enthusiasm for endurance sports, continues to inspire individuals to pursue their goals and embrace the transformative power of an endurance sports lifestyle.