The missing piece of the global running puzzle

Dan is a great guy and has a great running resume. I'd strongly recommend him! He could use a trip to the north pole!

Dan Gannon is one tough hombre. You couldn't do better.

Dan is the ulitmate competitor, and completely committed to the sport he loves, long distance running. He's competed and completed over 40 marathons! On top of that he's competed in marathons on every continent in the world. Mountains, snow, ice, desert, asphalt, great wall of china, it doesn't matter, if he gets the opportunity to run in the race, he's there.

Give the guy some snow shoes with a Nike swoosh on the side, and watch him go!

Dan has the strongest will power of any body I know. Brains and bronze all in one package need I say more ? Yes, from the early days Dan. would accept any challenge any time or place and play to win and he did. Nothing can stop him he keeps going and going....he belongs at the top of the world.

Not only is Dan motivated and enthusiastic enough to run this insane marathon himself but he is motivated and enthusiastic enough to take the other runners with him to the finish line. A great man to take on such a great challenge. Good luck Dan!!

I have know Dan for over 20 years. I knew him when he was a fat asthmatic that could not get out of his on way...but that was quite awhile ago and since he has set his mind to improving his health, as well as his life style, he as been a force in marathon running..

THE FINEST IRISHMAN I'VE EVER MET.

Dan's discription of a good day is being out for a run. I can't think of a better place for him to be but at the top of the world running with the polar bears. They better watch out. Enjoy little brother

Since I have known Dan his entire life - I can say with conviction that he is able to meet and conquer any challenge thrown his way. He is a natural leader and able to bring divergent personalities together for a common goal. His lifelong love of reading has made him into an entertaining writer and storyteller. Asthma ruled Dan's life for many years such that a walk across a room left him breathless. One day he decided to take up running (!) as a way to improve his breathing and now he is a marathoner! We are still all amazed and astounded, although we really shouldn't be.
Dan decided and Dan accomplished. End of story.

A run like this takes a fierce competitor, and few are more competitive than Dan. For extra inspiration, I'd suggest putting a tackling dummy wearing a Buckeyes jersey in front of him. That aughta get the competitive fires burning!

Dan is one of the most competitive people that I know. He will never give up and he has the experience to do this race! Go Dan, I am sure he will not only finish, but win.

Dan is nothing but a serious competitor! I have known him for years... he has always been eager to accept a challenge and face it head on. He can conquer the North Pole! Dan has all of the attributes that will allow him to excel in this race. Come on... the guy has done marathons around the world! Even Antarctica! Need I say more.... bring on the polar bears.

Dan is take charge winner. He is true competitor with a "can do" and reach for the stars type of attitude. His dedication to running has taken him all over the world, and he would be an excellent choice to run the North Pole Marathon for Running.Com .

Dan is a driven and committed individual that I have had the pleasure of working with. In our work we would travel extensively. In that travel, Dan always made sure that the hotel that we were staying at was near a suitable running route so he would never have to miss a run. This included running anytime that worked into our schedule, no matter the time. He would be an excellent choice to run the North Pole Marathon because of this dedication and commitment to whatever he does.

There are Type B personalities, Type A personalities, and then there's Type Dan. If you modified the race to force runners to hop on one foot in a 26.2 mile circuit around the North Pole while wearing nothing but a 100-pound backpack and a wet swimsuit in a blizzard, Dan would probably ask "Why just one lap?"

Dan is a very passonate person in all aspects of his life, which includes competing in marathons. As Dan's resumes shows (above) he has been a consistent runner and competitor worldwide. He would be an asset to the other Northpole runners because of his experience and enthusiam.

Dan’s the perfect choice to win this contest. Here’s why:
1) He’s run marathons on seven continents. Who could deny him the chance to add the North Pole to his list?!?
2) He’s running the Antarctica marathon in February. Who could deny him the chance to run on the top and bottom of the world in the same year?!?
3) Pixie Mate and YourRunning.com are Colorado companies. Dan is a Colorado resident. A clear connection.
4) Mobius VC is an investor in Newmerix. Dan is President and CEO of Newmerix. Another clear connection!
5) Dan is extremely articulate and comfortable speaking in front of a crowd. If the press wants to interview him, you’re gonna’ want that.
6) While you corporate sponsors are being extremely generous with this sponsorship/contest, I suspect you’d also appreciate some good PR from it. For all the reasons above, Dan is your man! A compelling story from a running, travel, local and business perspective.

Only Dan could figure out what in the world to wear to such an event?!?

Dan simply has the character of a winner - in life, in business and in competing in an event such as this. Dan has been a tremendous friend, boss and mentor to me. He always been there - in good times and tough times. His support and dedication is unmatched by anyone I have ever worked with. This is clearly evident in his life story in all areas of his life such as his success in business, his wonderful family and in his passion for running.

Good luck Dan! Not that you need it, because you are a winner at life!!!

Pam

Dan is one of those rare persons who has many passions in life - and one of those is running. This is relevant, judges, if you are looking for a multi-dimensional person. Of course if you are just looking for a person who likes to run a lot and who will finish this race with a solid time Dan fits that bill, too. But if you want someone who is going to chronicle the race experience with zeal, run to win, finish with certainty and broadly represent the running community (not just the big names but the “everyman”, too) I can’t imagine you could find a better candidate than Dan Gannon.

Dan is also deeply concerned about the health of our planet and would serve well as an ambassador to raise awareness of the effects of global warming. He has seen the snows of Kilimanjaro in a previous marathon and will have finished a marathon in Antarctica just two months prior to this race. In both of these locations the effects of global warming can be directly observed. He can comment personally and passionately on this subject that is critical to all of us.

I can picture the post race interview now...

INTERVIEWER: So tell us, Dan, how does this compare to the 40 other marathons you’ve run? How was this challenge different from your experience at the other end of the globe just 2 months ago? Tell us how the challenge of running a marathon compares to the challenges of running a business? And share with us, please, your thoughts and observations on global warming and how this phenomenon is impacting our world...

Antarctica running gear - $2,000
Marathon Entry Fee - $5,000
Having a participant with immense experience, unbridled drive, and deep passion for his sport - Priceless

I am with the Marines, writing from Iraq, west of Baghdad. I know that if Dan was out here with me, he would have my back; without a question. He is a true warrior. He is the type of guy who would sacrifice his own life to save his comrades. He is like a brother to me. We ran Kilimanjaro together; he stayed with me throughout the entire race and I would not have made it without him. He sacrificed his own time so he could see me finish. When we climbed Mt Kilimanjaro the next day, he was leading the pack. He spent most of his energy helping others, yet he still came out on top...smiling. There are several climbers indebted to his assistance during the six day climb. He is also smart and seems to always make the right decisions. He understands and respects the various climates (from scorching hot to sub-freezing cold).

He is well-rounded and extremely pleasurable to be around. He has many varied interests and has inspired me to follow in his footsteps. I have set a goal to run a marathon in every continent like him. I enthusiastically endorse Dan Gannon for the North Pole Marathon.

I would choose Dan over Santa to run with at the North Pole!! I saw Dan run the Kilimanjaro marathon in tough conditions and not only finish, but pull a great friend along with him having a rough race. He is a true team player and a person who exemplifies all the characteristics of someone I would want to hold up as a role model in the sport of distance running. I am also the person that Dan helped successfully summit Mt. Kilimanjaro. I can honestly say I would not have summited if it were not for Dan. Despite his ability to hike more quickly in a blowing snowstorm on the side of Kilimanjaro at 3am in the dark, he slowed his pace to help me all along the way. At times, the local guides were even following Dan! Ask not what the North Pole Marathon would do for Dan's running career, but what Dan would add to the North Pole Marathon!!
GO DAN GO!!
Zody

"Why go halfway?" is what I have heard Dan say regarding many things in life. He is the most enthusiastic, positive, and driven people I know. He embraces life and running fully and is an amazing ambassador for the sport. He will certainly excel at the North Pole and will make many laugh and smile with his wit and attitude. Best of everything!!

Having been friends with Dan since we were playing football in my yard as 10 year olds, I can say without reservation that he is the most determined and energized person I've ever known. He has battled the odds throughout his life and emerged successfully each time. I'm sure many of these entrants have fine qualities that would make them suitable for this event, but very few can match the combination of wit, vitality and grit that Dan brings to the table in everything he does. He is definitely
one of a kind and a perfect fit for this event. Good Luck DJG

Dan is without a doubt the most highly motivated and driven individual I have ever met. He was a great mentor to me in my career many years ago. We just recently re-connected. Was it any surprise to me that he's the CEO of a company? No. Any surprise that he's run 40 marathons on 7 continents (even though he wasn't running marathons when I knew him)? NO! Not only does Dan have the drive, determination, and sheer force of will to excel at this challenge, he is a great storyteller. If you need a "face" for this event, Dan is the man. My career has provided the opportunity to meet thousands of interesting people, but none of them are as fascinating or energetic as Dan. He is a maniac (in the best possible way)!

Yes, I am the eye witness to Dan's remarkable grit and and perseverence to complete the Antarctica marathon in very adverse conditions. Plus, his wit and humor throughout the two week adventure made it a very fun trip. I personally would like Dan to be selected for this race as I am in need of interesting stories on those long training runs.

When I think of running, I think of Dan. He inspires me to run. Dan is a ture and loyal friend, an adventurer and one of the kindest people I know. Dan has earned the privilege of running the North Pole marathon because his love of the sport motivates even the most "couch bound" to lace up their shoes and get out there! Give Dan a Starbucks (extra hot) and a powerbar and there's absolutely no stopping him or his contagious smile!

Dan has done marathon's on all continents and this would be just another goal, which he will put his mind to and get done. That is the way Dan is and why everyone respects him. Dan has taken seemingly impossible business tasks (Impossible to others) and completed them with the passion and committment of a finisher.

Dan would be awesome for this challenge. I have zero doubt about Dan's ability to run a North Pole Marathon and do it well. I think he has proven his resolve 40 times over. His energy, passion, and sense of humor are contagious. I had never considered running a marathon until I met Dan and have now run 4. I believe he will have that same impact on many others. I have been listening to his stories about running marathons all over the world and can hardly wait to hear about this one.

Dan is a ferocious competitor who love to win. He has the keen ability to motivate and inspire those who are on his team. He approaches running, business and relationships with an infectious tenacity. He has inspired me and I've seen his positive impact on others as well. Dan also has a sharp wit and great sense of humor that is ever present. His exuberence, commitment and drive make him a worthy candidate deserving of the opportunity to accomplish his global goal.

I traveled with Dan and a group to Tanzania for the marathon and Kili climb. He was one of the best in shape people on the trip and given his past running and traveling experiences, there is no doubt he can do the North Pole. He will be able to blend with the others and be a leader and provide a lot of entertainment as he has tons of jokes and is capeable of a few practicle jokes as well. He is also a motivating and competitive type of guy. I have no doubt that he would an excellent rerepresentative.

The summer I was seventeen I broke my leg and was confined to a wheelchair. I went to Colorado to hang out with my Uncle Dan and his family thinking I would hang out and look out on the mountains. No Way. Dan took me hiking, renaissance festival pushing me all around. We even went whitewater rafting, my favorite activityThe best 2 weeks out of the worst summer of my life.

There are many resons why you should select Dan Gannon to represent your organization in this unique marathon race on the North Pole.

Dan has overcome the debilitating affects of asthma by becoming a marathon runner. That says a great deal about his internal goal setting and striving for excellence.

Dan is a focused and driven person and will perform admirably in these challenging conditions.

Dan is an amazing motivator and will contribute to the success of the other runners in the group.

Dan is Irish....the entertaining stories will flow and all of us will enjoy his adventure by reading his travel dialogues from this well deserved trip.

The North Pole is waitng for him and he is ready to check this land mass off his list of Global Running Resume.

Please provide Dan Gannon the opportuniy to achieve one of his life abitions.

Dan is a supreme candidate for your North Pole run. His resume is long and accomplished, and though he has so many marathon adventures to his credit, he works very, very hard to be able to follow this passion while supporting his family. He is an unspoken inspiration to those close in his life. The ultimate athlete pushing toward goals that sometimes seem unattainable or physically impossible - truly some of his accomplishments have been mind over matter (and the grace of God).

We would so greatly appreciate his having this opportunity through this contest, I don't think his vision of running this particular marathon could come true without this gracious financial offer. Dan is building a legacy every day of his life, and what an incredible addition this would be to his story. While everyone applying for this spot is an outstanding athlete and adventurer, each so deserving in their own way, I know in my heart that Dan would not only embrace the opportunity to see this private world, but he would get involved some how after being there, as each place he travels creates a somewhat "personal relationship" that I believe is unique to explorers. It would be a life changing experience through the mutual influence of people he would meet, and friends he would make along the journey -impacting his personal life and molding further his personal integrity. I suspect at some point in his life Dan will become increasingly involved with conservation efforts to protect the wonders of this world and preserve these habitats he has grown to love, and he will try desparately to ensure their survival from man-made threats and changes, so his little girls and generations to come can be filled with the awe of our incredible planet.

Thank you for your generous offer. I am sorry it did't work out to where you could go yourself!

He is the original Danimal. None stronger or more determined. Every race needs a competitor and entertainer. With Dan your have the complete package.

My Uncle Dan is a larger than life figure. What he has accomplished throughout his life inside (and out) of his running shoes is simply astounding. He has realized his dreams through sheer force of will and I know that for him, completing another marathon in one of the most extreme places this Earth has to offer is not a challenge to be conquered, but rather something that seems like a great deal of fun. Because, you see, for Uncle Dan it is not the end result but the journey that he takes to get there that matters the most. Using his wits, humor, as well as his compassion, he leaves an impression on everybody that he meets - so much so that I could not think of anybody better to marry my wife and I last summer!

Good luck, Uncle Dan! Enjoy being on top of the world!

There are many reasons posted here on why Dan deserves to run at the North Pole and I want to echo a lot of them.

Dan is driven.
Dan motivates.
Dan is committed and dependable.
Dan is a friend for life.
Dan is a leader.
Dan serves.
Dan is articulate.
Dan is a great example in business and his personal life.
Dan is goal oriented.

Bust more importantly than all these personal characteristics, Dan deserves this for all he has given others and the sport of running marathons.

Dan is a great competitor; while he challenges others he challenges himself even more. Your race would be incomplete without the competitive nature of Dan, after all, the winner will never know if they really won if Dan is not in the race. If Gannon is not in the marathon then it’s simply exercise for the others.

Nothing would better complete Dan's 'running record' than a trip to the North Pole! He is strong, determined and has yet to meet an obstacle that he could not overcome. What some would call crazy, Dan finds exhilarating. His ability to run in the most extreme conditions; whether they be cold weather, running while injured, or high altitudes, has been an inspiration to many, especially myself. In 21 years, I have NEVER seen him give up on anyone or anything, and that is something that cannot be said about many others!
And as far as finding the right man to tell the story..look no further. Anyone who has met Dan will agree that he tells some fascinating stories! He is descriptive, hilarious, and inspirational. I don't believe I've ever been bored listening to my father. He is without doubt the perfect spokesperson, as well as competitor, for this North Pole Marathon!

Good luck Dad!

Dan and I met about 35,000 feet up, halfway down the lower half of South America. Turns out, we are neighbors (1 mile door to door) but never really met (friendly town of 281). We wound up bunking together across the Drake passage to Antarctica. Since then we have run marathons on all seven continents. I probably know him as well as anyone when it comes to assessing his ability to persevere in the face of a challenge.

Dan has a superhuman constitution. He is strong and resiliant. He has a great sense of humor that is contageous that can bring me to tears. He is willing to sacrifice his goals to help others and would literally carry them through what they might consider a life or death ordeal that he might consider a minor inconvenience. He is the kind of guy that tells the massage therapist volunteering after a race that he will come back and tip her. And he does.

I am a better person for knowing him. The North Pole will be a better place for having him. He is true North! Anyone selecting a runner for this race would be misguided if he didn't choose him. Dan will make it a pleasurable experience for all who enter. He will be an invaluable asset to the group as a whole and make great copy for any journalist fortunate enough to be in his company.

I consider him a great person and athlete and am honored to be his friend.

Craig Ewing

If Major John Hetland's endorsement hasn't already secured Dan's spot for this adventure, then you may want to rethink your decision criteria.

Dan is an individual that ANY group would want to have on their side. His mere presence raises the performance of everyone around him. He is incredibly motivated to succeed in everything he does and recognizes the value and importance of winning “as a team”.

Dan is truly a pleasure to be around (unless Ohio State is winning!) and I’m certain he would be a tremendous asset to the entire team (particularly if you get into any difficult situations). I will commend you in advance for making the right decision to invite Dan to join your group!

Dan loves the sport of running. Dan expects everyone who works for him to love the sport of running. Dan expects all of his customers to love the sport of running. Dan expects his family to love the sport of running. Dan expects his horses and dogs to love the sport of running. Dan simply loves the sport of running and is a true advocate.