023: Running to Fire | David Adams

This is a very special episode on Patriot Day, an annual observance on September 11th to remember those who were injured or died during the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001. A big part of that day were the firefighters who serve to protect our communities.

I won a 5K while pushing my son in the stroller. @adamsruns Click To Tweet

David Adams is a firefighter for the Bluffton Township, just outside of Hilton Head, South Carolina. Along with being a full-time firefighter, David is also a passionate and successful runner. He started competing at 9 years old and qualified for the USATF Nationals two times. During high school, he won 9 state championships, set the South Carolina 5K Cross Country State Record in 1999 with a time of 14:37 and was named the South Carolina Gatorade Athlete of the Year and “Mr. Track” in 2000.

David went on to run at Clemson University but battled achilles injuries during his sophomore year. Those injuries ultimately put a pause on his running for almost 10 years. Then, after four years of being a full-time firefighter, David slowly began running again. This time, however, his passion for the sport grew to new heights that even he couldn’t imagine. He slowly started training harder than before and staying motivated through competing.

Work hard and be grateful for what you have. @adamsruns Click To Tweet With this newfound motivation, David has ran some impressive time including a 4:22 mile and 15:25 5k at age 34. He also has a 16:55 5k with a jogging stroller and an 18:06 5k in firefighter gear without an air pack. Along with these recent accomplishments, David has his sights set on bigger goals in the coming years that he discusses in our conversation.