Wanting to Fly

January 04, 2018

“I have always wanted to fly. I’ve spent my whole life exploring the outdoors and in 2015 I started learning to paraglide. Not long after, I started speed flying, which is paragliding down a steep slope with skis. I made an error and crashed into the ground going really fast. It’s a pretty unforgiving situation. I broke my leg and pelvis and spent about four months in a hospital bed. My crash made me learn about pain, patience and most importantly, compassion. My self-identity was deeply informed by my physical self. After I realized I would never be the same, I was forced to separate my own self-image from what I had always been. I still aspire to be that, but I’ve had to dig deep and appreciate the abilities that I still possess. I have an active career as a musician and I was able to write music and play the guitar through most of my recovery. Music is a healing element for most people and I count myself among that number now more than I ever have.” – HOKA fan Tim Bluhm from San Francisco, CA

Tim’s favorite shoe is the Challenger.

Also in Humans of Hoka

I’m not the guy who will make the podium, but I will work to get the job done.

July 13, 2018

I was born missing my lower left leg and only have three functional fingers on each hand, all due to birth defects. I never had two legs and ten fingers so I don’t miss them — it’s all I know. In 1997, I became an EMT while I was a volunteer firefighter. Then in 2007, I joined the New York City Fire Department and have since become a lieutenant. I’m the only active duty amputee on the job. It gives me joy to know I inspire others with what I do.

Music and Running

January 04, 2018

Music is my life and it always has been, but running is my second passion. I use music and running to keep a healthy life.

World Record Holder

January 04, 2018

While my running times are ordinary, my aspirations to push my boundaries are not. I ran 63 marathons in 63 days to set the world record most marathons run by a woman consecutively.