It's all 50 states when Buch Bolton crosses the finish line at the Kona Marathon

Buch Bolton has been running across America over the past 21 years, Teamed with his wife, Sandy, whom he described as “my travel agent, my masseuse, my baggage handler, my inspiration,” the wrestling coach has run marathons in 49 states so far.  The Kona Marathon in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii this Sunday should complete his project, which, he said, began as a lark in 1997 after beers, cigars and a dare. The 58-year-old Bolton actually has run 64 marathons now, although there have been some repeats, including three U.S. Air Force Marathons and eight Columbus Marathons. He has twice made the famed circuit through Boston. Hawaii, though, will be special. Along with his wife, he’ll be joined by their four children, their spouses and five grandkids. They will salute both his retirement last month from 33 years of teaching and the end of his remarkable running challenge. While he looks forward to the celebration, it’s not something he’s talked about to many people beyond his family. “I’ve always kind of kept it low profile,” he said.  “I wasn’t sure it was going to happen and I was just doing it for myself, not the notoriety. 

posted Wednesday June 20th