God Helps Retired Running Legend Dick Beardsley Overcome Massive Injury, Loss, and Addiction

Courtesy of Dick Beardsley

Runner Dick Beardsley was no stranger to the media limelight at the peak of his running career. A marathon record-holder, he became an inspiration to many in the world of sporting. But the toughest marathon he would ever face was after his retirement when a series of accidents and addiction to prescription painkillers sent him spiraling to rock bottom.

Through it all, God stood by Beardsley’s side and today the former runner is a motivational speaker helping others.

The Winning Streak

Beardsley, 66, grew up in the small town of Wayzata, west of Minneapolis, Minnesota. As a child, he spent a lot of time in nearby Bemidji, where he lives today. He made headlines in April 1981, when he won the very first London Marathon, tying for first place with Inge Simonsen of Oslo, Norway, who he still calls a friend today.