Running with the Raistricks: A Fleet Feet Training x CES Love Story

A Swipe That Changed Everything

Love often finds us in unexpected places, but for Christopher and Lee-Anne, their journey began with a swipe on Tinder. On July 7, nearly eight years ago, fate brought them together in a way they never imagined. Christopher, new to the world of online dating, had just one match — Lee-Anne. Meanwhile, Lee-Anne, after 49 previous dates, finally met her perfect match in Christopher. From the moment they sat across from each other on that first date, they knew their lives were about to change. They saw each other again the next day, and the day after that — and they haven’t been apart since.

Running: A Shared Passion from the Start

Running has been an integral part of their story from the very beginning. When they met, Christopher was training for his second marathon, his first season running with Fleet Feet Training x CES (Chicago Endurance Sports) as part of the Lurie Children’s Hospital charity team. Lee-Anne, already an experienced runner with over ten half marathons under her belt, joined Fleet Feet Training x CES with the Winter Warriors program after meeting Christopher. For both of them, running wasn’t just about fitness; it was about community.

With a shared passion for the sport, training together became a foundation of their relationship. There were no hurdles when it came to running as a couple — both were already runners looking for camaraderie. Through CES, they found not only a structured training program but also friendships that would last a lifetime.

Crossing the Finish Line Together

Their running journey reached a beautiful milestone in 2021 when they ran their first marathon together. Side by side, they supported each other through the miles, embracing the ups and downs of training and race day. Despite Christopher being a naturally faster runner, they took on a run/walk strategy, allowing them to experience the race in a unique way together. The moment they crossed the finish line, holding hands and beaming with pride, was one they’ll cherish forever.

Another cherished memory is their wedding day, when all their CES friends joined them for a 6-mile run during their marathon training block to kick off the celebrations.

In 2024, they completed the Chicago Marathon Series together, yet another incredible achievement as a couple. Looking ahead to 2025, they’ve decided to take a break from marathons to focus on traveling, but their fitness journey continues. Whether it’s hitting the gym for daily classes or lacing up their running shoes for a few miles, they continue to push and inspire each other every step of the way.

For Christopher and Lee-Anne, running has been more than just a sport—it has been the thread weaving their love story together. The miles have brought laughter, struggle, triumph, and an unbreakable bond. Most importantly, through CES, they’ve built a family of fellow runners who share their passion and joy. This Valentine’s Day, we celebrate their love, resilience, and the beautiful journey they continue to run — hand in hand, one stride at a time.

Christopher and Lee-Anne on a run in LeeAnn's home country of South Africa.