Chris Koch, who was born without fully developed limbs, participated in the Canadian Army Run. Anna Carroll, Centretown NewsDespite his small stature, “go big or go home” is a phrase often found leaving the lips of Chris Koch.
On Sept.18, Koch completed the Canadian Army Run Commander’s Challenge, which was the most physically demanding series of races featured at this year’s event.
He had the strength, stamina, and determination of his fellow competitors, with just one key difference setting him apart from the rest: Koch was born with no arms or legs.
This was not Koch’s first time conquering a long-distance race, using a longboard to propel himself along the course.
Earlier this summer, Koch completed the Scotiabank Charity Marathon in Calgary after the LA Marathon did not allow him use his longboard in their February 2016 race.
Koch describes crossing the finish line in Calgary as a moment that was unforgettable.
“There were a lot of emotions,” said Koch. “My mom was there and she was crying, and I got the best finish line greeting from my girlfriend. After that, I was just tired.”
When contacted by the Canadian Army Run to participate in this year’s race, “of course the answer was yes,” said Koch.
In another case of “go big or go home,” he opted for the Commander’s Challenge.
The challenge involves both races offered on the big day: the five-kilometre race and the half-marathon.
Koch crossed the finish line after 26.1 kilometres with a total time of 2:36.43. That time put him ahead of two-thirds of the 1,800-person race pool.
But the atmosphere of the race was what made the day a true success for Koch.
“The Canadian Army Run does a tremendous job at being an inclusive event,” he said.
Since being founded in 2006, the Canadian Army Run has honoured those who experience physical challenges with specific waves for ill, injured, and disabled athletes, which depart 15 minutes before the mass start times.
The run recognizes these men and women, making a point of encouraging and celebrating those who choose to run, walk, or roll to the finish line in these waves.
Major Gus Garant, the 2016 Canadian Army Run race director, describes these athletes as “inspiring.”
“The stories and smiles of the participants crossing the finish line say a lot about the Canadian Army Run,” said Garant.
Koch has a story of his own. In addition to being an athlete, he’s an advocate.
As the founder of If I Can — a project that encourages audiences to fulfill their dreams, regardless of the obstacles before them — Koch transforms his barriers in to opportunities.