The people who run for something greater

It would be a shame if the story of Steve Knowlton’s run across America to raise awareness of Asperger’s and autism should include the word “fail,” because from all accounts, the guy is all guts.

Mr. Knowlton, who hails from Prior Lake, had to abandon his run on Sunday in the hills of Utah, according to his blog, Steve’s Run.

Toward evening as Steve reached Skull Pass in Utah, his feet and his body told him it was time to end his Run Across America for Autism Awareness. He simply could not continue. As difficult as this was for Steve, he realized he had nothing left in his weakened body to maintain this grueling run. His body was not absorbing nutrition and his feet could not support him.

Steve’s spirit is down as his goal to run across America a second time was not to be. I know we all support Steve in his effort and commend him for attempting what rarely has been accomplished. We appreciate what he, his road crew (Gary and Mike), his sponsors, support team, and his legions of followers have done to raise awareness for Autism. Steve is truly a remarkable man. God bless you and all of your supporters, Steve.

“May you run and not be weary and may the road you travel always bring you home.”
Isaiah 40:31 and Handt Hanson

Thank you for following Steve on his journey. He looks forward to visiting with you. Your prayers and your support have made all the difference.

According to his blog, Knowlton, 47, had to deal with coyotes as he ran across Nevada, he started running at night because the heat was too much, and over the weekend he learned that his aunt had died.

He was inspired to make the run by runner Terry Hitchcock, who ran 75 consecutive marathons in 75 days from Minnesota to the opening of the Olympics in 1996.

Knowlton already had run from Seattle to Key Largo. He’d hoped to set a record running from San Francisco to New York in under two months.

Update: Knowlton was also encouraging people to donate used sneakers. They can still be dropped off at any of three locations.

Koko FitClub Chanhassen
820 W. 78th Street
Chanhassen, MN 55317

Koko FitClub Savage
7709 Eagan Dr.
Savage, MN 55378

Koko FitClub Tonka Bay
5633 Manitou Rd.
Tonka Bay, MN 55331