CJ Johnson - "Be legendary"

Allison interviews Baton Rouge runner CJ Johnson about his running journey, community work, and current injury recovery.

CJ began running in middle school, quit in 11th grade amid family turmoil, later joined the Air Force, and was discharged after learning he had sickle cell anemia.

He recommitted to running after his father’s leg amputation, and because his son has full-blown sickle cell anemia and cannot run, motivating CJ to “run for both of them.”

He describes lessons on faith, training smart, and helping others, including walking miles 22–26.2 with a struggling first-time Louisiana Marathoner. CJ’s favorite race was the New York City Marathon; he also ran Amsterdam.

He shares race routines, gear, fueling, playlist, and a memorable rain-soaked Boston-qualifying push with Ainsley’s Angels rider Daniel Manchester.

He discusses Run Crew meetups, cross-training, and a goal to chase a 2:35 duo wheelchair-push record at the Marine Corps Marathon and Boston.

CJ Johnson - https://www.facebook.com/clarence.johnson.750


Races Mentioned
Tiger 10k
War Eagle Fest
Boston Marathon
Louisiana Marathon
New York Marathon
Amsterdam Marathon
Exotico Marathon
Marine Corps Marathon


Shout Outs
Scott Thornhill
Stefan Clayton
Ainsley's Angels
Run Crew
Clarence Johnson Senior
Clarence Johnson III
Daniel Manchester
Crystal Johnson
Howard Jones