Chad Pratt: Running Through Life with Faith, Family, and Endurance

For many, running is a sport. For others, a release. But for Chad Pratt, it has always been more—a way of life, a discipline, and a thread connecting faith, family, and personal resilience.

From his early days on the competitive tracks of Southern California to the historic fields of Durham University in England, Chad’s story is one of quiet determination, athletic excellence, and profound personal strength. A lifelong runner, devoted father, and dedicated community servant, Chad’s life has been marked by miles run, challenges overcome, and values lived.

I had the privilege of sitting down with Chad in his California home, where we talked about running, fatherhood, grief, service, and what it truly means to live a life of endurance—with grace.

Q: Chad, take us back to where your running journey began. What were those early days like?

Chad Pratt:

It all started at Loyola High School in Los Angeles. I was a proud member of the Cubs’ track and cross country teams, wearing the blue and white with everything I had. That’s where I fell in love with distance running. I still remember clocking a 4:45 mile and a 9:56 two-mile. At the time, it felt like flying. More than anything, I loved the discipline—early mornings, team camaraderie, pushing yourself one step further.

Q: You went on to run in college. What was that experience like?

Chad:

Yes, I continued at Santa Clara University, where I competed in both cross country and track. It was a really formative time for me—athletically and personally. One race that stands out was the Notre Dame College C.A.T. Kiki C Championship in 1982. That was a tough one, but it really showcased how running isn’t just about physical strength—it’s about mental fortitude. I carried that lesson with me for years to come.

Q: And after that, you had the unique opportunity to run internationally?

Chad:

I did. I was fortunate to study at Durham University in England, and I had the chance to compete in both track and cross country there as well. One of the highlights of my life was running at Crystal Palace in London, where I ran a personal best 4:35 mile. But the biggest memory? I once outran Steve Cram in a race. That’s a name every runner knows. It was one of those surreal, “did that really happen?” moments.

Q: That’s incredible. But your story goes far beyond running. You’ve faced some of life’s hardest trials as well. How have you endured?

Chad:

I lost my wife some years ago, and it changed everything. Becoming a single father of two was the greatest challenge—and the greatest gift. Running helped me cope, yes, but it was faith that held me together. I’m a devout Catholic, and my parish became a second home during those years. Today, I serve as an usher at Mass and am a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. That brotherhood, that sense of purpose through service—it keeps me grounded.

Q: Has your approach to running changed over the years?

Chad:

Absolutely. I don’t chase records anymore. These days, I focus on steady state running—a consistent, moderate pace that keeps me healthy, clear-minded, and spiritually centered. I run four or five times a week. It’s not about performance; it’s about rhythm, reflection, and renewal. Every run is a conversation—with myself, with God, with the world.

Q: What keeps you running now, after all these years?

Chad:

The same thing that got me started: the joy of movement, the clarity it brings, and the person it helps me be. But now, it’s also about being a model for my children. I want them to see that consistency matters, that strength can be quiet, and that life—like a long run—isn’t about speed. It’s about staying in it, staying faithful, and finishing strong.

Q: What would you tell someone just starting their running journey?

Chad:

Don’t overthink it. Start small. Start steady. Focus on how it makes you feel, not how fast you are. Let it be yours. And let it grow into something more than exercise—let it become a habit of peace.

Q: How would you sum up your journey in a few words?

Chad:

Endurance. Faith. Family. I’ve been blessed with all three. I’m still running—just with a little more wisdom, a little more gratitude, and a lot more heart.

Final Thoughts

Chad Pratt is the kind of person who doesn’t need a spotlight—his story speaks for itself. His life is a reflection of discipline, humility, and purpose. From racing Olympic legends to raising two children with love and grace, Chad has run every mile with integrity.

He reminds us that strength isn’t always loud, and endurance isn’t always fast. Sometimes, it’s the quiet, steady rhythm of a man putting one foot in front of the other—on the track, through grief, in faith, and in life.