Jack Beck was presented with the first ever Heart and Sole Award by Lt. Governor Drew Wrigley and his wife, Kathleen, who serve as the Kroll's Diner Bismarck Marathon honorary chair couple.

Kathleen Wrigley uses running as a key tool on her road to recovery after suffering a brain aneurysm that has created physical struggles along with permanent vision impairment. Kathleen remembers running the NYC Marathon 15 months after brain surgery. She was overwhelmed with emotion as she felt equality with the other runners despite their physical differences.

After humbly turning down the Mayor's High Five Award, Kathleen began to recognize the importance of celebrating those who have struggled but fought their way to the starting line. This is how the Heart and Sole Award was developed.

Jack Beck received the award on Friday, September 18 from Kathleen and Lt. Governor Wrigley. Beck has struggled with addiction for 25 years. He ended up in drug court where Judge David Reich introduced Beck to a much healthier addiction -- running.

Kathleen Wrigley, Jack Beck, Lt. Governor Wrigley
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To celebrate his two years of sobriety, Beck will be running the Kroll's Diner Bismarck Marathon which is 13.1 miles. His family watched him accept his award at the North Dakota Heritage Center with smiles and tears of joy.

Jack Beck and Family
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The Kids' Mini Marathon registration begins Friday, September 18 at 5 p.m. followed by the opening ceremony at 5:30 at the Capitol Grounds. Runners will line up on Saturday, September 19 at 7:10 a.m. For complete information, visit the Kroll's Diner Bismarck Marathon website.

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