Matt Johnson’s story of running across Texas is a powerful testament to faith, resilience, and the human spirit. In just 17 days, 8 hours, and 55 minutes, Matt set the record for running 841.92 miles across the state, starting on October 1st in El Paso and finishing in Galveston. But the road to breaking this record was anything but smooth. Five weeks before the run, Matt suffered several leg injuries that put his goal in jeopardy. After praying and committing to his mission, he set out to complete what he said he would do, leaning on his faith and mental toughness every step of the way.
Matt and I recorded a podcast before his Run Across Texas, which can be found here
Matt's podcast with Red Rocks Church can he found here
Learn more about the Run Across Texas and Valor Fit
In this episode, Matt walks us through the incredible highs and lows of his journey. From the first day in El Paso, where a group of supportive runners joined him to kick off his run, to the challenges he faced around day five, when swollen feet caused excruciating pain, Matt recounts the moments that tested his limits. He shares the harrowing experience of running down Death Highway, where semi-trucks sped by just feet away, and the mental toll of returning to his van that day filled with anxiety and exhaustion. On day seven, in the midst of the most pain he had ever experienced, Matt discovered that pain is inevitable but can be defeated, proving that his mind was stronger than his body.
Day 10 brought even greater challenges, as Matt battled violent vomiting, rolled his ankles on gravel roads, and questioned whether he could continue. Yet, he pushed through, driven by his faith and determination to finish. One of the most meaningful moments of the journey came during a community 5K in Austin, TX, sponsored by LSKD, where over 150 people showed up to run alongside him, donate to ValorFit, and offer their support. Matt describes the deep emotions of seeing the impact his run had on others and how that fueled him for the final stretch.
Finally, Matt shares the emotional culmination of his journey when he reached Galveston and completed his record-setting run. Through every mile, every challenge, and every breakthrough, Matt’s story is a testament to the power of faith, community, and mental strength. Whether you’re a runner, someone seeking inspiration, or simply curious about what it takes to push past human limits, this episode will leave you motivated and inspired to pursue your own goals with relentless determination.
Listen now to hear Matt Johnson’s incredible story of running across Texas, his unwavering testimony to God, and the lessons he learned along the way.
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