In an inspiring tale of companionship, an extreme marathon runner has decided to adopt a stray dog that joined him for a remarkable 77 miles during a grueling race. The dog, who began following the runner and refused to leave his side, became an integral part of the journey. The runner, Jack Thompson, shared not only food and water but also his sleeping space with his new furry friend. After they crossed the finish line together, Thompson realized he couldn’t abandon the spirited pup, now affectionately named Sandy.
The duo tackled the unforgiving terrain of the 2016 Gobi March 4 Deserts, a seven-day race spanning 155 miles across the harsh landscapes of China’s Gobi Desert. Sandy made her entrance on the second day of the event, and the bond they formed was so strong that Thompson initiated a crowdfunding campaign called “Bring Sandy Home” to cover the expenses required for her adoption and relocation to Edinburgh.
With a fundraising goal of approximately $6,535 to cover medical and quarantine fees, the campaign exceeded expectations, raising nearly three times the target amount. The additional funds will be donated to local shelters to assist other dogs in need of loving homes. “Everyone involved in the race—competitors, volunteers, and staff—fell head over heels for this little dog,” Thompson expressed on his crowdfunding page. It’s remarkable how such a small creature managed to endure such a challenging race. “She may be petite, but her spirit is immense,” he added.
Thompson recounted how they supported each other throughout the run, sharing resources to ensure Sandy could finish the race alongside him. “I knew at that moment that Sandy was no ordinary dog,” he stated. Despite facing extreme heat, Sandy took breaks but always waited for Thompson, showcasing their strong bond. “Crossing the finish line with her was surreal,” he remarked, noting his wife’s observation that it was the first time she had seen him smile at the end of a race.
Currently, Sandy remains in China while the adoption process is finalized, which may take up to four months due to medical clearances and bureaucratic procedures. She is staying with a friend in the meantime, and Thompson and his wife are eagerly anticipating Sandy’s arrival just in time for Christmas.
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Summary
An extreme marathon runner, Jack Thompson, has adopted a stray dog named Sandy who accompanied him on a 77-mile race through the Gobi Desert. Their bond grew as they shared food, water, and shelter during the grueling event. Thompson started a crowdfunding campaign to facilitate Sandy’s adoption, which successfully raised nearly triple the goal. The funds will also aid local shelters. Sandy is currently awaiting the completion of the adoption process in China.