Honolulu Marathon: Marie Murdoch Inspires With Vision of Perseverance

The 2024 Honolulu Marathon is set to inspire, with runners from around the globe taking on the iconic 26.2-mile course. For Marie Murdoch, however, this race is more than a personal challenge—it’s a testament to resilience and hope. The Minnesota native and first-time Honolulu Marathon participant faced life-altering adversity in 2017 when she experienced a silent stroke, losing vision on the left side of both eyes. Despite this setback, Murdoch turned her struggle into triumph. "I took what I thought was the worst thing in my life and changed it into the best," she says. Running with limited vision requires adaptation, and Murdoch is supported by guide Michael Contero. Together, they navigate the course with precision, communication, and even humor. "We’re always joking and laughing, even during the tough parts of training," Contero shares. Murdoch’s mission extends beyond the race. She founded Travel Visions Aloha, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering blind and visually impaired individuals through activities like running clubs. "I was meant to do this," Murdoch says. "I want to change the world and show others what’s possible." With her determination and Contero’s guidance, Murdoch’s journey is far from over. The Honolulu Marathon marks the beginning of her efforts to inspire and empower others to reach for their dreams.