In an incredible story of friendship, a marathon runner has decided to adopt a stray dog that accompanied him on a grueling 77-mile journey during an extreme marathon. The dog began to follow runner Alex Thompson, and their bond only grew stronger as they tackled the challenging terrain together.
Thompson shared his food, water, and even his sleeping space with the pup, who he affectionately named Gobi after their adventure together. They faced deserts and rivers while participating in the 2016 Gobi March 4 Deserts, a seven-day race covering 155 miles in China’s Gobi Desert. The stray dog joined Thompson on the second day of the race and quickly proved to be an invaluable companion.
Realizing he couldn’t part with Gobi after their journey, Thompson launched a crowdfunding campaign called “Bring Gobi Home” to help cover the expenses of bringing her to his home in Edinburgh, Scotland. The goal was to raise around $6,535 to cover medical and quarantine costs. Thanks to Gobi’s irresistible charm and spirited personality, the campaign exceeded expectations, tripling its original goal. The additional funds will be donated to shelters to assist other dogs still looking for loving homes.
“Everyone involved in the race fell for this little dog; she truly captured our hearts,” Thompson shared on the crowdfunding page. It was surprising how such a small dog could endure the intensity of the race. “For a dog her size, she had an enormous spirit,” he remarked during an interview with the BBC.
Thompson spoke about their unbreakable bond, emphasizing how he ensured Gobi made it to the finish line by sharing his resources with her. Despite the extreme heat causing Gobi to rest during the last days of the marathon, she was still determined to cross the finish line alongside her new best friend. “Running into the finish line with her was unforgettable,” he told CNN, adding that his wife noted, “It’s the only time I’ve ever seen you smile at the end of a race.”
While the adoption process continues, which may take up to four months due to medical clearances and red tape, Gobi is currently staying with a friend in China. Thompson and his family are eagerly anticipating bringing their newest member home by Christmas. What a heartwarming gift that would be!
Additional Resources
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Summary
A marathon runner named Alex Thompson has adopted a stray dog who joined him during a 77-mile race in the Gobi Desert. After forming a strong bond, Thompson initiated a crowdfunding campaign to bring the dog, Gobi, to Scotland, successfully raising nearly three times the goal. Gobi is currently in China while the adoption process is finalized, and the family hopes to reunite by Christmas.