For many runners, participating in a Ragnar Relay is a test of endurance, teamwork, and sheer determination. But, for Christian and Alyssa, it was the beginning of a lifelong partnership. Their love story began in 2019 when fate—and the need for a last-minute teammate—brought them together.
Christian’s Ragnar team was struggling to fill its 12-runner roster for the Colorado Road Ragnar that year. That’s when a mutual friend introduced him to Alyssa, who had long dreamed of running a Ragnar. Jumping at the opportunity, Alyssa joined the team, knowing only two of the other runners. Little did she know, this race would change her life forever.
Spending over 30 hours crammed into a minivan with fellow runners is a surefire way to bond quickly. While it wasn’t love at first sight, although “Christian likes to say I fell in love with his running form,” Alyssa jokes. She will admit to being impressed by Christian’s determination, especially when he powered through a challenging 12-mile leg despite a knee injury.
Following the race, the team kept in touch, organizing gatherings and movie nights to relive the unforgettable experience. It wasn’t long before Christian took a leap and asked Alyssa out. From that moment on, the two have been running side by side.
Now, four years into marriage, the couple is expecting their first child—who they affectionately call their “little runner.” They credit their journey together to the race that introduced them and the friends who helped bring them together.
Their love for Ragnar has remained strong over the years, and they’ve continued the tradition of racing together, only taking a break during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their shared race history includes:
2021: Northwest Passage Ragnar (Washington)
2022: Zion Trail Ragnar (Utah)
2023: Minnesota Road Ragnar
2024: Wasatch Back Ragnar (Utah)
Through miles of challenging terrain, countless van rides, and unforgettable moments, Christian and Alyssa have proven that, sometimes, the best journeys in life are the ones we run together.