Professor of Instruction, Erik Krohn, travelled to Budapest to participate in the 2026 Vivicittá Spring Half Marathon.
The Vivicittá Spring Half Marathon offers runners a scenic route through one of Europe’s most historic cities, weaving past landmarks and along the Danube while blending athletic challenge with cultural exploration. For one participant, the race was more than just a competition—it was the culmination of a journey years in the making.
“I originally signed up to run this particular half marathon in March 2020, but due to travel restrictions, we weren't able to attend,” Professor Krohn explained. “I stayed on their email list though.” When the opportunity to visit Europe over spring break finally came, it “seemed like the perfect opportunity to finally run the race.” What had once been a canceled plan became a motivating goal that shaped an entire trip.
The trip itself became part of the experience, combining preparation with exploration. After starting in Sweden to visit friends and adjust to the time change, they traveled to Hungary for the race. “We had a couple of days to get ready,” he said, allowing time to settle in before race day. Following the event, the journey continued through Amsterdam, where they explored by bicycle before returning home. “Overall, it was an excellent trip.”
For this runner, racing is often tied to travel, turning competitions into opportunities to experience new places in a unique way. “When I travel, I like to run races in different places,” he said, noting past runs in Australia, Chile, Sweden, and the Netherlands.
But this race also had a competitive edge and a clear personal goal.
“I wanted to push myself and go for a personal best… I finished about a minute faster than my goal.”
Their path to long-distance running wasn’t immediate, but it developed steadily over time. “I’ve always been athletic but I wasn’t always a runner,” he said, recalling a background in tennis. Like many, their running journey accelerated during the pandemic, when routines shifted and new habits formed: “I became a ‘COVID marathoner.’ During the shutdown… I had the time to run longer distances.” What started as a practical way to stay active grew into a lasting commitment to endurance running.
Beyond fitness, marathon running has shaped their mindset in meaningful ways. “Running long distances requires both physical endurance and mental toughness,” they explained. “By mile 22… it’s going to hurt… Finishing strong requires pushing through that discomfort.”
That same perseverance extends beyond running, particularly in academic work.
“It takes persistence… to eventually solve difficult problems.”
For those considering running, their advice is simple but practical: “Start with a manageable goal… try training for a month and aim to complete a 5K.” Building gradually allows new runners to find enjoyment without feeling overwhelmed. Whether pursuing faster times or simply enjoying the process, they emphasize that “running always gives you something to aim for.”
