Ben and Colette’s story begins in the mountain town of Steamboat Springs, where they met in college and immediately became running buddies. It all really kicked off when Ben confidently claimed he could run a marathon. Colette, never one to pass up an opportunity for fun (or friendly sabotage), promptly signed him up. From that moment on, they became training partners—bonded by miles, mutual suffering, and a shared inability to say no to a challenge.

As for when they officially started dating? Well… great question. Sometime in the fall of 2021, but the exact date remains a mystery. One day they were just running pals, the next they were planning long-distance visits across state lines. Either Ben was in Alaska and Colette in Colorado, or vice versa. Facetime basically deserves an award for keeping this relationship alive.

Despite the miles, every moment they spent together was (and still is) inseparable. They’ve roamed mountains, wandered deserts, and logged countless miles—both on foot and in the air. Through it all, their love and commitment have only grown stronger, proving that whether it’s a marathon, a long-distance relationship, or just the next big adventure, they’re in it together.