Derek Lindstrom

Derek is a former road racer with 114 marathons under his belt (2:29 PR) who has transitioned to the trails. Derek was diagnosed with chronic heart failure in March of 2018, and had a gradual decline until March 2023 when Derek was placed on the heart transplant list. On December 3rd., 2023, Derek was gifted with a new heart.

Lofty goals for 2024/2025 include Marquette Trail 5OK in August of 2024 (Marquette, MI), R2R2R in September of 2024, as well as the Monumental Marathon in November of 2024 (Indianapolis - marathon #115). 2025 goals include qualifying for the Boston Marathon, as well as becoming the first heart transplant athlete to complete the Lead Challenge in Leadville, CO.

Derek directs numerous races throughout the Upper Midwest, including the Cedarburg Half Marathon (WI), Queen City Half Marathon (MI), as well as the Paavo Nurmi Marathon | Half (WI). A personal run coach | high school track coach, Derek now spends time speaking with transplant patients, speaking at races/events, as well as raising awareness to the importance of donor registration.

Favorite Route: I never turn down an opportunity to hike/run R2R2R, or chase that next 14er in CO, though my favorite local route is Hogback Mountain, located in Marquette, MI. (Summer home)

Favorite Race: So many races over the years, with each telling a different story. Racing in Leadville, CO is always a highlight, with plans to be the first heart-transplant athlete to complete the Lead Challenge in 2025.