Ray Nicholas: Building Running Community in North Dallas
Join Chris Detzel for an inspiring conversation with Ray Nicholas, the founder of RTC (Ray's Track Club) and one of DFW's most influential runners. Ray shares his incredible three-chapter running journey - from high school cross country star running 15:32 for 5K in California, through a 15-year hiatus filled with basketball, weightlifting, and other sports, to his remarkable return to running that culminated in a stunning 2:48 marathon PR.
Discover how Ray went from a casual 3:42 first marathon to breaking the 3-hour barrier and eventually running 2:48 at Houston Marathon - a massive 15-minute personal record achieved through what he calls his best training block ever. Ray reveals the secrets behind that breakthrough performance, including training alongside elite DFW athletes like Melanie Lawson, Jennifer Pope, and Brent Woodle.
Learn about the founding of RTC (Ray's Track Club), born from a simple need for quality training partners in North Dallas. What started as Ray organizing workouts for a small group has grown into a 60-member community that's helping elevate the entire DFW running scene. Ray discusses how surrounding yourself with faster runners pushes everyone to new levels - a philosophy that's helped create the incredible depth of sub-3:00 marathoners in Dallas-Fort Worth.
The conversation also covers Ray's Boston Marathon experiences, his thoughts on modern shoe technology's impact on performance and recovery, and his upcoming goal of chasing a 2:43 marathon. Plus, hear about his awkward first meeting with Chris at the airport before Boston 2019, complete with lacrosse ball rolling on the terminal floor.
Whether you're chasing your first Boston qualifier or dreaming of going sub-3, Ray's story proves that with the right training partners, dedication, and community support, remarkable breakthroughs are possible at any stage of your running journey.
Key Topics: Marathon training, Boston Marathon, running community, DFW running scene, personal records, training groups, sub-3 hour marathons, shoe technology, Houston Marathon
Creators and Guests
Host
Chris Detzel
As a seasoned technology leader with over 20 years of experience, I specialize in building and nurturing thriving communities both running and technical
Guest
Ray Nichols
Ray Nicholas - Runner, Community Builder, and RTC Founder Ray Nicholas is a passionate distance runner and the founder of RTC (Ray's Track Club), one of North Dallas's premier training groups that has helped dozens of runners achieve breakthrough performances and Boston qualifying times. Athletic Background: Ray's running journey began in high school in Orange County, California, where he evolved from a casual cross country participant to a standout athlete. After initially joining the team to support a friend, Ray discovered his talent for distance running and made the difficult decision to leave basketball - his first love - to focus entirely on running. His dedication paid off as he achieved remarkable times including a 15:32 5K and 4:18 mile, helping his team reach third place at the California state championships. Ray also holds a California high school record as part of the 4x1 mile relay team. The Comeback Story: Following a successful high school career and two years of collegiate running, Ray stepped away from the sport for 15 years, during which he explored basketball leagues, Olympic-style weightlifting, and other athletic pursuits. His return to running began serendipitously when a military veteran friend asked him to help train for a half marathon. What started as casual coaching quickly reignited Ray's own competitive fire. Marathon Excellence: Ray's marathon progression is nothing short of remarkable. Starting with a 3:42 debut at the Dallas Marathon in 2014, he systematically improved through dedicated training and strategic race selection. His breakthrough came at the 2019 Houston Marathon, where he ran 2:48 - a stunning 15-minute personal record that he attributes to his best training block ever, surrounded by elite DFW athletes including Melanie Lawson, Jennifer Pope, and Brett Whittle. Community Impact: Recognizing the lack of competitive training options in North Dallas, Ray co-founded RTC (Ray's Track Club) with fellow runner Melanie Lawson. What began as informal track sessions has grown into a 60-member organization that consistently produces Boston qualifiers and sub-3-hour marathoners. The club's success reflects Ray's philosophy that surrounding yourself with faster, dedicated athletes elevates everyone's performance. Current Goals: Now in his early 40s, Ray continues to chase ambitious goals while balancing his running with family commitments - he and his wife Laura actively volunteer with their local high school's award-winning marching band program. His next marathon target is 2:43, as he aims to maximize his remaining years of peak competitive running. Ray's story exemplifies the power of community, consistent training, and never giving up on your dreams - proving that remarkable breakthroughs are possible at any stage of life.