From Addiction to Ultra-Endurance: Our Story

We are Joe Hardin (IG: @trail_tortoise_running) from Indiana and Doug Fingliss (IG: @dfingliss) from Rhode Island—two former alcoholics/addicts who have found healing, purpose, and freedom in running and ultrarunning. Our journeys took us from the dark depths of addiction to the expansive trails and streets of endurance running, proving that transformation is possible. We’ve both gone from hopeless, unhealthy, overweight, and near death to the best shape of our adult lives. And now, we’re taking on two epic challenges to raise awareness and funds for Recovery Road Runners, a nonprofit that helps others find strength in community and movement. 

The Challenges: Pushing Limits for a Cause

🚨On/Around March 21st, 2025: We’ll run across Rhode Island, from the Southcoast Massachusetts border to the Connecticut line—one state, one day, one powerful statement for recovery. The state of Rhode Island is our warm up to the 2^nd epic adventure!

🏃‍♂️‍➡️On/Around August 30th, 2025: We’ll take on the state of Indiana, running across its entirety over three days, finishing at Fort Recovery—because recovery isn’t just a destination, it’s a relentless pursuit.

More specific details and date confirmations will be forthcoming.

These runs symbolize the miles we’ve put between ourselves and our past, the pain we’ve endured, and the hope we carry for those still struggling.  Change is possible. If we can change, you can change!

Why We Run

We run for those still in the grips of addiction. We run for those who feel lost, hopeless, or alone. We run because we are proof that recovery is not only possible—it can be powerful. Every step we take represents a step toward freedom, a step toward healing, a step toward life.  One mile at a time, one step at a time!

How You Can Help

Your support will directly fund Recovery Road Runners, helping individuals in recovery access running programs, race entries, and community support. Your donation isn’t just money—it’s a lifeline for someone searching for hope. 

 💙Every dollar makes a difference.

 🏃‍♂️‍➡️Every step brings awareness.

💪 Every journey inspires change.

Join us in proving that no matter how far you've fallen, you can always rise. 

Donate today. Share our mission. Help us run for recovery.

#RunForRecovery #MilesForChange #SoberStrong #RecoveryRoadRunners #UltraRunning #RhodeIsland #Indiana