Most marathon runners obsess over gear, fueling, and pacing. Truett Hanes? He took a different approach at the 2025 Knoxville Marathon—tackling the hilly, unforgiving course in a pair of jeans and just one shoe.
Hanes, a sub-2:30 hopeful, had big ambitions for the race. But after an early mishap—reportedly losing a shoe in the opening miles—and taking a wrong turn that added an extra mile, the day quickly turned into a test of grit rather than time.
Despite the setbacks and dressed more for a casual hangout than a 26.2-mile race, Hanes powered through the heat and elevation. The crowd quickly took notice of the barefoot-striding, denim-clad runner, cheering him on as he grimaced through the final stretch.
He crossed the finish line after 27 grueling miles, battered but unbowed. While the clock didn’t reflect his original goal, the feat itself—running a marathon (plus a bonus mile) with one shoe and zero excuses—earned him instant legend status in Knoxville.
Because sometimes, it's not about the time on the clock—it's about the toughness in the soul.
Discover More Content
