Finding Purpose and Strength: June Jennings’ Running Journey
At Upward Running, we love to share the stories of our members who have found both physical and spiritual growth through running. Today, we’re spotlighting June Jennings—a runner who has discovered purpose, faith, and resilience on her journey.
From Dreaming of Running to Living It
For June Jennings, the journey to becoming a runner started as a quiet dream. Back in college, she would occasionally lace up her shoes and jog around the neighborhood. Though her runs were short and sporadic, the desire to be a runner stayed with her. Fast forward to 2021, when her career as a political appointee was winding down, and June was ready for something new. She needed a purpose beyond her professional life and found that purpose through running.
The Monument 10K: A Turning Point
June’s journey took a defining turn at the Monument 10K in Richmond, Virginia. After completing the race, she and her husband stopped at a coffee shop to celebrate. A stranger’s comment about her being “just a walker” stung, but that moment served as a catalyst. Determined to prove to herself what she could achieve, June joined a local Run For God group led by her friend, Charlie Brown. With the group’s support, she began a new running journey, working through a structured run-walk plan to train for a 5K.
From 5K to Marathon: June’s Running Journey Unfolds
After completing her first 5K and then a 10K, June felt inspired to dream even bigger. She signed up for Run For God’s Couch to Marathon program, committing to the intense training required to tackle a full marathon. With her family’s unwavering support, June trained diligently and, in early 2022, crossed the finish line of the Walt Disney World Marathon. Her husband ran by her side, matching her pace every step of the way to ensure she finished, while her two sons and daughter-in-law joined her in the race. “Finishing the marathon was an incredible accomplishment,” June reflects, “but having my family there, running alongside me and cheering me on, meant more than anything.”
Finding Community and Faith Through Upward Running
June’s journey with running has been deeply connected to her faith. She sees each run as a time to connect with God, finding comfort in Isaiah 43:2:
“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.”
Running has become more than a physical activity; it’s a spiritual practice and a reminder of God’s constant presence in her life. Her community at Upward Running has been a crucial part of her journey, providing encouragement and friendship. June is grateful for the support of her coaches and the friends she’s made along the way.
Advice for New Runners: Keep Going and Enjoy the Process
June’s advice to those just starting out on their running journey is to be kind to themselves. “Exercise should be enjoyable,” she says. “There will be good days and bad days, but remember, a good day is always around the corner.” She emphasizes the importance of making time for exercise, especially in busy seasons. Running has become her way of finding balance and mental clarity in a hectic schedule.
What’s Next for June?
With over 50 races completed, including multiple half marathons and 10Ks, June is considering taking on another marathon. “We’ll see what this runner does next!” she says with a smile. She’s thankful for the body and spirit that God has given her to keep moving forward, and she hopes her story will inspire others to find purpose, joy, and faith through running.
Be on the Lookout for the New Upward Running App, Launching Soon!
At Upward Running, we believe running is about more than just fitness—it’s about finding purpose, community, and faith along the journey. Inspired by June’s story? Get ready to join our community through the upcoming Upward Running app, designed to support all levels, from beginners to marathoners. Whether you’re a walker, a new runner, or a seasoned athlete, our app will be your guide on this journey. Stay tuned for the launch and be one of the first to experience the joy of running with purpose!
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