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News | Nov. 21, 2023

DLA Joint Reserve Force officer completes third marathon, inspires with personal journey

By DLA Public Affairs

In a display of commitment and physical endurance, U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Col. Chris Allen of the Defense Logistics Agency’s Joint Reserve Force has accomplished his third marathon since joining the DLA in July 2022.

Chris Allen, fist raised in running gear and a racing number, runs down a portion of track with other runners with stadium seating in the background
U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Col. Chris Allen, a joint logistics operations officer in the Defense Logistics Agency's Joint Reserve Force at DLA Europe & Africa, runs his third marathon in Amsterdam Oct. 15, 2023.
Chris Allen, fist raised in running gear and a racing number, runs down a portion of track with other runners with stadium seating in the background
DLA Joint Reserve Force Officer Completes Third Marathon
U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Col. Chris Allen, a joint logistics operations officer in the Defense Logistics Agency's Joint Reserve Force at DLA Europe & Africa, runs his third marathon in Amsterdam Oct. 15, 2023.
Photo By: Courtesy photo
VIRIN: 231121-D-D0441-1001
Allen’s marathon journey commenced in Berlin Sept. 25, 2022, followed by the Paris marathon April 2, 2023, and culminating in Amsterdam Oct. 15, 2023. Reflecting on his experiences, Allen shared that the decision to embark on this challenging endeavor was rooted in a desire to push his personal boundaries.

“Training for the marathon gave me a great sense of structure, renewed discipline, and overall improved my time management and productivity,” Allen said.

After the successful completion of the Berlin marathon, he embraced the winter season to prepare for the Paris marathon, building personal resilience and sharpening his focus on training goals. The third marathon in Amsterdam marked the latest in his journey, as Allen highlighted the joy and fulfillment found in running through some of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

In sharing his accomplishments, Allen aimed to inspire others to challenge themselves and discover the joys of long-distance running.

“I hope to inspire more people to challenge themselves and discover – or rediscover – the joys of running at longer distances,” he explained.

Allen’s marathon trilogy aims to be a testament to the transformative power of setting ambitious goals and pushing one’s limits, encouraging individuals seeking personal growth through discipline, structure, and the pursuit of physical challenges.

Chris Allen, centered and wearing running gear and a racing number, is surrounded by other race participants with the Eiffel Tower in the background
U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Col. Chris Allen, a joint logistics operations officer in the Defense Logistics Agency's Joint Reserve Force at DLA Europe & Africa, runs his second marathon in Paris April 2, 2023.
Chris Allen, centered and wearing running gear and a racing number, is surrounded by other race participants with the Eiffel Tower in the background
DLA Joint Reserve Force Officer Completes Third Marathon
U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Col. Chris Allen, a joint logistics operations officer in the Defense Logistics Agency's Joint Reserve Force at DLA Europe & Africa, runs his second marathon in Paris April 2, 2023.
Photo By: Courtesy photo
VIRIN: 231121-D-D0441-1002