Sometimes life's greatest adventures begin when something unexpected happens.
On Wednesday, Aug. 19, at 6:00 p.m. the Kenton County Public Library's Erlanger Branch welcomes bestselling author and ultramarathon runner Dion Leonard along with his dog Gobi, whose unforgettable memoir, Finding Gobi, has inspired millions around the world.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Leonard didn't set out to become famous for rescuing a dog. He traveled to China to compete in one of the world's toughest endurance races, the Gobi March, a grueling 155-mile ultramarathon across the Gobi Desert. But during the race, a tiny stray dog appeared at his feet and refused to leave his side for nearly 80 miles.
The unlikely duo crossed mountains, deserts and rivers together, forming a bond that would change both of their lives forever.
When the race ended, Leonard was determined to bring the little dog, whom he named Gobi, home to Scotland. That mission became an incredible journey of its own after Gobi disappeared in Urumqi, a city in the Xinjiang region of northwestern China, with more than three million people, launching an international search that captured hearts everywhere.
During an NBC Today Show interview about Finding Gobi, Leonard reflected on the profound impact Gobi had on his life.
"Her resilience and determination has really just made me realize that anything is possible and good things will come to me."
He also shared that his desire to rescue Gobi was deeply personal.
"I had a really tough, depressive upbringing and I wanted to be the person that was going to be the one to help her out of this situation and to change her life. And in the process, she also changed mine."
That message of hope, perseverance and the unexpected ways our lives can be transformed has resonated with millions of readers around the world.
During this special evening at Kenton County Public Library's Erlanger branch, Leonard will share the remarkable true story behind Finding Gobi, the challenges of endurance racing, the search that made international headlines and the lessons he's learned about courage, friendship and never giving up.
Whether you're an animal lover, an avid reader, a runner or simply someone who appreciates an inspiring true story, this is a program you won't want to miss.
Join us at the Erlanger Branch on Wednesday, Aug. 19, at 6:00 p.m. and discover how one tiny dog made an enormous impact on one man's life and continues to inspire people around the world.
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