How Running Strengthened Laura & Ben's Bond: A Fleet Feet Training x CES Love Story

Laura and Ben Nava, longtime Fleet Feet Training x CES members' love story started outside of the running world. It grew through years of unwavering support, and flourished into a shared passion for running — one that has strengthened their bond and created unforgettable memories.

A Love Story Painted in Patience

Laura and Ben first met in the summer of 1994 when Laura was painting murals as part of the City of Chicago Summer Work Program. Ben, visiting his former art teacher, noticed her working on a piece and struck up a conversation. While Laura wasn’t immediately receptive, Ben was patient. Later that fall, he invited her to his high school’s Halloween dance, and from that night on, they’ve been inseparable. This June, they will celebrate their 28th wedding anniversary—a testament to a love that has stood the test of time.

From Cheerleader to Competitor

Laura’s running journey began in 2013, thanks to a persistent co-worker who insisted she join lunchtime runs. That co-worker? None other than Coach Violet. Though initially skeptical — especially starting in the dead of a Chicago winter — Laura eventually embraced the sport.

Ben, on the other hand, found his way into running in 2014 by supporting Laura at her races. Watching her commitment inspired him, and he decided to join her for a few runs. What started as a way to connect with Laura quickly became his own passion, and before long, he too had the running bug.

Breaking Barriers, Together

Both Laura and Ben faced their own internal struggles when starting out. Laura had to battle self-doubt, often overthinking her training and progress. Over the years, she has learned to lean on her running friends to help her push past those moments of self-sabotage. Ben struggled with imposter syndrome, believing that his speed defined his status as a runner. It took completing a marathon for him to realize that being a runner isn’t about pace — it’s about perseverance.

Goals That Go Beyond the Finish Line

Laura has completed five marathons, two Ragnar Relays, and countless half marathons. Recently, both she and Ben have taken on the role of training pacers, helping others achieve their goals. While they took a short break this season to focus on swimming, Laura has her eye on convincing friends to join her for another Ragnar Relay Race this fall.

Ben, now a three-time marathoner, sees running as a way to stay active and connected. His current goal is simple: keep running, keep moving, and explore the world one race at a time — preferably in the Caribbean with their running friends turned family.

Supporting Each Other, Every Step of the Way

From the very start, Ben has been Laura’s biggest cheerleader, waiting at every finish line, offering words of encouragement, and answering her calls when races get tough. In turn, Laura unknowingly fuels Ben’s motivation. Seeing her strength and determination has pushed him through his own toughest runs. They may not always run side by side, but they always lift each other up when it matters most.

Favorite Running Memories

For Laura, one of her favorite moments was chasing Ben around Chicago as he ran the 2022 Chicago Marathon, a culmination of months of shared training. Watching him thrive on race day was a highlight of their journey together.

Ben treasures a different moment — the 2019 Chicago Half Marathon, one of the rare occasions where they ran together and crossed the finish line side by side.

Why Running Makes Their Love Stronger

Running wasn’t part of Laura and Ben’s relationship in the beginning. It was something they discovered together in their 30s, adding another dimension to their partnership. It has given them a reason to cheer each other on, to make sacrifices during long training seasons, and to celebrate small victories along the way.

Through Fleet Feet and CES, they’ve not only strengthened their own relationship but also built a community of like-minded friends who have become their extended family. Running has become more than just a hobby — it’s a shared journey that keeps them moving forward, together.