News Quick Links

Nike’s Lauren Fleshman has learned a lot during the 13 years she has raced competitively, including how to ride the peaks and valleys that inevitably come with being an elite runner. Yet despite some bittersweet defeats and down moments, she still manages to stay captivated and motivated by the sport. Check out the video above to see what she has to say about all this and more. Then keep reading to be inspired to get out there and start your own comeback.

Ask anyone who knows anything about Lauren Fleshman and they’ll tell you she isn’t one to break easily. Even though she injured her foot only four weeks before the 2008 U.S. Trials in Eugene, she kept training with hopes of securing a ticket to Beijing. Unfortunately, her fifth place finish in the 5,000m event put her dreams of attending the Games on hold. On top of all this, in the early fall she discovered her injured ankle had developed into a stress fracture to her navicular, requiring surgery and intensive physical therapy.

Dealing with both an injury and disappointment of this magnitude would ruffle anyone’s feathers—and Lauren is no exception. After receiving an outpouring of support from runners in both her community and all around the world, Lauren realized that when you have the guts to set such a lofty goal, there’s always going to be a risk of failure. And we have all been let down at some point after going for a goal. After taking time to heal both her foot and her heart, Lauren is focusing on becoming stronger, fitter and ultimately claiming a spot on a World Championships team and the 2012 Games.

Are you looking to make a comeback? Email us at nikeelite@nike.com and we may feature you on NikeRunning.com!