From Early Achievements to Steady Wellness, His Enduring Stride Reflects Strength, Discipline, and Faith

In a world that often celebrates speed, records, and short bursts of success, Chad Pratt of California offers a compelling counter-narrative: a life built around endurance, quiet discipline, and steady effort—both on and off the track. His story, shaped by thousands of miles and decades of devotion, reveals that running can be far more than physical exertion. For Chad, it’s a way of life.

From record-setting performances in high school to life-changing runs through grief and fatherhood, Chad’s approach to running has matured alongside him. It has evolved from competition to contemplation, from chasing times to finding peace. And through it all, he has remained grounded in faith, family, and service.

Early Speed and Determination at Loyola High School

Chad’s journey began in the heart of Southern California, at Loyola High School in Los Angeles. A determined and gifted athlete, he wore the Cubs’ blue and white with pride, quickly establishing himself as a standout in both track and cross country.

With personal bests of 4:45 in the mile and 9:56 in the two-mile, Chad made his mark not just in the school’s history books, but across the state’s fiercely competitive prep running scene.

“High school was where I learned how to work,” Chad says. “Every day at practice taught me something about pushing limits—and respecting them too.”

College Years and Mental Toughness at Santa Clara University

From Loyola, Chad advanced to Santa Clara University, where he continued to compete in both track and cross country. College brought new challenges—faster competition, longer races, and the demands of academic life—but Chad welcomed them all.

One of his most memorable experiences came during the Notre Dame College C.A.T. Kiki C Championship in 1982, a grueling race that tested his mental and physical boundaries.

“I didn’t win that day,” Chad says, “but I became a stronger runner. That race showed me that running isn’t just about legs. It’s about what you carry in your heart.”

Across the Atlantic: Durham University and a Personal Best

After graduating from Santa Clara, Chad’s academic and athletic journey continued in England at Durham University. Immersed in a new culture and surrounded by centuries-old traditions, Chad found renewed inspiration as he represented the university in cross country and track.

The highlight of his time abroad came at Crystal Palace in London, a historic track venue where he clocked his fastest ever mile: 4:35.

“That was a magical day,” Chad remembers. “The energy, the track, the history of the place—it all came together.”

In one unforgettable race, Chad even managed to beat Olympic medalist Steve Cram, a testament to his dedication and growth as a runner.

Running Through Grief: A Father’s Path

Life, of course, is more than sport—and Chad’s path would take a painful turn when he lost his wife and became a single father of two. The grief was overwhelming. The responsibilities immense.

But through it all, Chad kept running.

“Running became my refuge,” he says. “It was my way of staying steady—for my kids, for myself, and for God.”

What once had been a performance tool now became a practice of healing. It gave him space to think, grieve, pray, and begin each day with intention.

Faith in Action: Service Beyond the Track

Chad’s strength draws not only from miles logged, but from his deep Catholic faith. He is an active usher at his local parish and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, where he volunteers his time to serve others through charity and fellowship.

“Faith is what keeps me centered,” Chad explains. “Running gives me the discipline to live that faith out in real life.”

For Chad, both practices—running and religion—require presence, humility, and devotion. And both have helped shape him into a man who leads not by noise, but by example.

The Shift to Steady State Running

Now in his 50s, Chad Pratt of California continues to run several times a week. But his goals have changed. No longer chasing times or podiums, he’s focused on steady state running—maintaining a comfortable, sustainable pace that supports long-term wellness and emotional balance.

“I don’t need to prove anything anymore,” Chad says. “I just want to keep going.”

This style of running aligns perfectly with Chad’s approach to life: consistent, thoughtful, and deeply intentional. It’s not about exhaustion—it’s about energy. Not about burnout, but balance.

Words of Encouragement for New Runners

Chad’s message to new or returning runners is simple and sincere:

• Start slow. Stay steady.
• Ignore the trends—listen to your body.
• Let running be your time. Your space. Your renewal.

“Don’t worry about pace or distance,” he advises. “Just run in a way that helps you feel more like yourself.”

Whether you’re jogging around the block or training for a 5K, Chad believes every step is valuable—especially the quiet ones no one sees.

A Legacy in Motion

With decades of running behind him and more ahead, Chad sees no reason to stop. His children are growing, his community work continues, and his legs still carry him forward—steadily, faithfully.

“I’ve run in races with thousands of people and I’ve run alone in the dark,” Chad reflects. “What matters isn’t who’s watching. What matters is that I’m still moving.”

For Chad Pratt of California, running is more than an activity. It’s a metaphor for life: endure the hard miles, appreciate the easy ones, and always keep going.