'The Challenge' Star Runs First 5K Race Less Than Two Years After Foot Amputation
The Challenge veteran Nelson Thomas, 37, just proved that resilience has no limits. Over the weekend, Thomas ran his first 5K race since undergoing a foot amputation last year, sharing the major milestone with fans on Instagram. His posts featured a video recounting the race, a finish line photo, and a photo dump celebrating the achievement with his family. Known best for his appearances on The Challenge, where he took on competitors in both physical and mental competitions, Thomas has always been admired for his determination.
"Today was such a beautiful day! Not only did I complete a 5K run with the Run Travis Run Club, but I also got to run alongside my mom and my @corywharton_ig two people who’ve been by my side since day one," he wrote on Instagram. "This run wasn’t just for me, it was for everyone out there pushing to be better. If I can do it, you can do it. Let’s do it together!"
Back in March 2023, Thomas was involved in a near-fatal car accident. Rushed to the hospital, he feared he might never walk again. Over the following months, he underwent six surgeries, leaving his foot with three plates and 22 screws, according to In Touch Weekly. He also explored a variety of treatments, like stem cell therapy and physical therapy. By October 2023, he was walking again and had returned to the gym, making a remarkable comeback that seemed to defy the odds.
Related: What to Eat After Running a Marathon, According to a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
But despite the progress, he continued to experience pain, and doctors revealed that a nonunion bone in his foot was not healing. In early 2024, Thomas made the decision to amputate his foot and lower leg. At first, he struggled with it. But he's come to terms with it, telling People the foot amputation was the beginning of his second chance.
"The day I cut off my foot, man, I never looked back. And I've been the happiest man ever since,” he said. "I feel like I'm 10 times better. It's been a blessing, and I'm moving and grooving. Do I have a lot longer way to go? Yeah, we all do. I expect a lot more out of me. I'm not resting in the middle. I'll rest at the end."
We have a feeling this will be the first of many 5Ks to come.