By Mark D. Belter – North Ridgeville OH Runner

When people ask, “What is running?”, the answer varies depending on who you ask. For some, it’s a form of exercise. For others, it’s a way to clear their mind. For me, running became a personal journey—one that started with a simple question and evolved into lifelong friendships, memories, and a deeper purpose.

Back in my days as a mortgage broker, I did a loan for a guy who casually asked if I wanted to go jogging. I figured, Why not? That spontaneous jog led to one of the most unexpected blessings in my life—a friendship with Fred, my very first running buddy. We trained together every week and even traveled to Florida to run the Marine Corps Half Marathon. Those miles became more than a workout—they were moments of connection, growth, and camaraderie.

Later on, I started running with my childhood friend Timmy. We logged countless miles across neighborhoods, parks, tracks, and half marathons—rain, shine, or snow. We didn’t just run; we talked about life, laughed until we couldn’t breathe, and supported each other through every season. Timmy became my second running partner, and those runs became therapy for the soul.

Then came Scott—a friend from high school who had never run a mile in his life. I coached him through his first jog, and within weeks, he was the one setting the pace. Sadly, Scott was later diagnosed with ALS. We didn’t get decades of runs, but we made the most of the time we had. That short chapter reminded me how powerful shared experiences can be.

Over time, I’ve run with many people—but my favorite running partner is my wife. Since 2009, we’ve tackled races together with strollers, braved the cold during Santa Hustles, and powered through the heat on Florida bridges. Our annual 4th of July 5K started as a couple’s tradition and has now grown to include our three sons. Some of my favorite moments in life have ended with a sweaty, smiling “Good job, babe” after crossing the finish line together.

We’ve run everything from the Cleveland Half Marathon to Montana hill trails, the Inland Trail Half to the Rock ‘n’ Roll series. These events have taken us across the country and into some of the best memories of my life.

A few standout races I’ve been part of:

• The Perfect 10-Miler (my favorite!)
• Marine Corps Half Marathon
• Cleveland Half
• Buckeye Half
• Rock ‘n’ Roll Half
• Inland Trail Half
• Turkey Trots
• Santa Hustles
• Skeleton Runs
• Freedom Runs
• Holly Runs
• Reindeer Runs

Each one tells a story—and I’m grateful for all of them.

My personal best? The Cleveland Half Marathon at age 34. I crossed the finish line in 1 hour, 42 minutes, and 7 seconds, averaging a 7:47/mile pace. That race holds a special place in my heart, and I’d love to chase that time again someday.

Running has changed my life. It’s built friendships, helped me through challenges, and shown me the world one mile at a time. Whether you’re in Ohio like me or anywhere else, I encourage you: just start. Take a walk. Sign up for a local 5K. You never know where those first steps might lead.

Running isn’t just about speed or distance. It’s about movement, mindset, and making memories.

– Mark D. Belter