In the early eighties Dick Beardsley was one of world’s most famous athletes. He is an American distance runner best known for his first-place tie in the 1981 London Marathon and his close finish with Alberto Salazar in the 1982 Boston Marathon— frequently referred to as The Duel in the Sun, compellingly told in the book by John Brant--where he ran 2:08:53 breaking the Boston course and American Records. 

After retiring from competition, he suffered a near fatal farming accident, requiring a five-month post-surgical recovery. From 1992-1995, he sustained three major car and cycling accidents, requiring over twenty surgeries. After each of his operations, pain medications were prescribed—to which he became severely addicted. 

It was a privilege to spend a moment with this inspirational speaker, fishing guide, iconic athlete, and champion of addiction recovery. I caught up with this native Minnesota outdoorsman away from his “floating office,” aboard his 19-foot fishing boat with his Dick Beardsley Fishing Guide Service.  He and his wife Jill are co-owners of the Lake Bemidji Bed and Breakfast.  Dick is a motivational speaker sharing his experiences of redemption, perseverance, and hope; he has spoken at fortune 500 companies, non-profit organizations, conferences, sporting events, prisons, and drug treatment centers.

I hope you enjoy Dick’s boundless enthusiasm, gratitude, and approach to Staying the Course, the title of his page turning book with co-author Maureen Anderson—a master class in overcoming life’s adversities. We warmly welcome Dick to this episode of  Intrinsic Drive™.