Running on Faith: The Principles, Passion, and Pursuit of a Winning Life by Jason Lester
In his memoir, Running On Faith: The Principles, Passion, and Pursuit of a Winning Life (HarperOne), with a foreword by Dean Karnazes (New York Times best-selling author of Ultramarathon Man), Lester shares the nine lessons that led him to achieve his dreams and find his calling. He lives these lessons every day, doing everything to the best of his ability, with intense drive and passion. Providing audiences with the tools to overcome the adversity they may face and pursue their passion, Lester demonstrates a practical and inspirational guide to never giving up in the game of life.
Jason P. Lester is an Ultra-Endurance Athlete, Author, Artist and winner of ESPN’s ESPY Award “Best Male Athlete”. Lester has survived more trials, endured more horrors and surmounted more obstacles than would fit in a Hollywood film. After each upset, letdown, and setback he has recommitted himself to pursuing his dream of becoming an accomplished athlete, despite his challenges.
Lester grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, where he became obsessed with sports as a coping mechanism and by age 12, developed into a skilled athlete with numerous accolades. As fate would have it, he was hit by a car while riding his bike, resulting in 21 broken bones, a collapsed lung, and a paralyzed right arm, stifling his dream of excelling in sports. As Lester was slowly leaning to adjust to his challenges, his father and sole guardian died at the young age of 39.
Still, inspired by the memory of his late father’s love of athletics, Lester grew up to become a star in high school and college athletics. By the age of 16, he was competing in running and biathlon events. After participating in countless races, including 5k, 10k, biathlons and marathons, Lester was ranked #1 in the state of Arizona in biathlons at the age of 18.
Lester achieved a personal and sports milestone by becoming the first challenged athlete ever to complete the Ultraman World Championships in Hawaii on November 30, 2008, finishing the grueling ultra-distance triathlon where he swam 6.2 miles, biked 261.4 miles and ran 52.4 miles to the finish line. In the year leading up to the 2009 Ultraman World Championships, Lester raced in the Ironman World Championships, represented the USA in the Triathlon World Championships in Germany, and completed Ultraman Canada (double Ironman). Lester shares his message of hope and faith through his NEVER STOP Foundation, speaking engagements at Fortune 500 companies, schools, hospitals, churches, and athletic organizations.
A successful ultra endurance athlete, he knows first-hand what it is like to be faced with countless challenges, both mentally and physically.
“Jason’s story is a must read! It is a true testimony of the human spirit and confirmation that we all have so much more in us than we may believe. The challenges he conquered will create a shift in your life” —Tyrese Gibson, singer and actor
“Running on Faith is a triumph! Jason Lester is proof that as one wise man said, ‘Triumph is when you try and add a little umph!’ Jason Lester shows us ALL that you can achieve whatever you put your mind body and soul into!” —Rev Run, RUNDMC
“I stand humbled and enamored of the triumph that Jason has made of his life. It is his dedication and determination that impresses me. He has made an art of his sport and of his life. His life inspires mine.” (Stephen Holland, official sports artist of the Los Angeles Kings)
“Lester has written his book with the belief that ‘if someone applies just one of the lessons in it, it will help them find their purpose.’ The path he’s travelled to reveal his purpose in life hasn’t been easy. But he’s learned to view adversity as a challenge.” (West Hawaii Today)
“Jason Lester is proof that a dysfunctional home, physical trauma and personal loss aren’t reasons to quit on life.” (Charisma Magazine)
“You’ll be encouraged and inspired by his miraculous story as well as learn how to achieve a true competitor’s mindset over adversity…Jason’s story is truly remarkable, proof of what dedication, heart, and a never-say-quit attitude can create.” (The Christian Critic)
“Athlete and author Jason Lester didn’t let his paralyzed arm stop him from achieving his goal of becoming an Ultraman. His inspiring story will motivate you to push harder in life and believe that you can do anything.” (Guideposts)
“His life is an excellent example of what can happen when someone decides togo for a dream and refuses to give up.” (The Beach Reporter)
“…a powerful, motivating read with lessons anyone can benefit from in their own life.” (examiner.com (Dallas edition))
“We all push our bodies and minds, but sometimes you want to quit. You won’t want to quitagain after reading this book.” (Serious Running Blog)
“Drawing on faith, Lester managed to keep going…and going…and going.” (weareaustin.com)