How Friends of Andrew Walker Turned the Coeur d’Alene Marathon into an Annual Tribute
By Riley Smith
Cover photo courtesy of Negative Split
Running the Coeur d’Alene Marathon is more than a race for me. It’s a tribute, a promise and a shared journey that keeps the spirit of Andrew Walker alive. Andrew passed away while running this marathon in 2023, but his impact didn’t end that day. He inspired so many of us to challenge ourselves, step outside our comfort zones and lean into the strength of the community he built around him.
After finishing my football career at Boise State, long-distance running was the last thing I wanted to do. But when football ended, I was drawn to something bigger than myself, something that demanded commitment, grit and purpose. The Coeur d’Alene Marathon became that and a way to honor Andrew. I pushed myself beyond my mental and physical limits for a cause.
Andrew was a competitor in the best sense of the word. He made the people around him better just by how he lived. He made everyone feel valued and carried a great attitude no matter the situation. That energy still carries many of his friends forward. The training is hard and the miles are long, but we push through together, carrying Andrew’s example with us every step. We run as a group, keeping the community and bond he started strong. In running this marathon, we keep Andrew’s memory alive, not just in name but in action.
Remembering a Runner
Each year at the Coeur d’Alene Marathon, Andrew Walker’s friends lace up not just to race, but to remember him. In the miles they share, they honor the life he lived and the impact he continues to have on their community. Here, several of his closest friends reflect on what running—and Andrew—still mean to them.
“Coeur d’Alene definitely holds a special place in my heart as a weekend where friends and family come together to celebrate and honor one of the greats. I’ve got his jersey hanging in my rafters right now. #platinum” – Jack Draa
“Andrew lived every single day to the fullest. His mindset and positivity were so contagious and he brightened every single room he was in. I run to honor Andrew Walker and the legacy he created. His spirit lives on in every single one of us.” – Devin Pierce
“I started my running journey to honor my buddy Walker, and it has continued to this day. Making every run a testament to be better and perform better for my brother. Long Live Andrew Walker.” – Reid Tatusko
“It just feels like a great way to honor him; an event Andrew would have loved. So many of his closest friends, together for one weekend a year, doing something to remember him by. Sharing stories, laughing together, and honoring his legacy.” – Duke Draa
“Andrew was the best friend and human I’ve ever had the privilege of meeting. He truly left this world better than he found it and bettered everyone around him day in and day out.” – Mitchell Crocker
“I run in CDA every year as a way to honor Andrew. It’s amazing to gather as friends annually and look around and see all of the wonderful people he brought together and continues to inspire.” – Michael Bick
“I run to honor Andrew because he lived by the goal of winning the day. Running reminds me to live life with the same energy he did and to appreciate the time we have.” – Ryan Lee
“I got into running because of Walker. I never imagined myself running far but since his passing, I’ve felt more encouraged than ever. Whenever I’m on my long runs, I always think about Walk. He may be gone but I know he is smiling down on all of us.” – Mac Griffin
“I run because Andrew was bigger than life, and his legacy reminds me to live fully, chase purpose and appreciate every step.” – Joe Suri
“Andrew was the kind of person that you always wanted to be around. I don’t think there was ever a time I saw him without a smile. Running in his honor and seeing the community of people his legacy brought together will forever be so special.” – CeCe Thomas
