Running with Hellen: A Heartfelt Journey of Friendship, Innovation, and Seriously Cool Shoes

Written by guest blogger: Michelle Stolberg

Recently, we had the joy of working on a project that had my heart racing—just like a kid unboxing a brand-new pair of sneakers. We were entrusted with the audio on a short documentary for On Running, adding sound design and completing the final audio mix for the film. “The Heart to Race” featured the inspiring runners Hellen Obiri and Sinta Vissa. But this film wasn’t merely about running; it was a celebration of the deep bonds that form between elite athletes, the way friendship and mentorship can uplift and propel them toward greatness, and how supporting one another can make all the difference in their remarkable careers. 

Credits

Client: On Running
Production: Park Pictures London
Directors: Michael Paul Stephenson, J.M. Harper, Pierre Robichaud, Hector Aponysus
Directors of Photography: Natalie Kingston, Joe Meade
Editor: Sammy Smart
Colorist: George Costakis
Composer: Julian Cisneros
Sound Designer and Mixer: Eric Stolberg

Fast forward a few weeks. I’m cozy on my couch, coffee in hand, watching Hellen take on the challenging Olympic marathon course in Paris. Now, I don’t usually get all emotional over sports, but there was something about her profile in the film that had me cheering for her as if she were a dear friend.

Then, I noticed Hellen’s shoes. They stood out amongst the mass of shoes hitting the Paris streets. With their futuristic flair, I couldn’t help but delve deeper online. It turns out Hellen was wearing On Running shoes equipped with groundbreaking spray-on technology, making them lighter and more environmentally friendly. I was so intrigued by the craft behind the creation of her shoes.  If you haven’t seen these beauties in action, I highly recommend checking out the video here.

I may never run like Hellen (let’s be honest, my idea of a marathon is more along the lines of binge-watching a whole season of  “Emily in Paris”), but I’m starting to think that getting my hand—or rather, feet—-on a pair may be the next best thing. If they can handle Hellen’s powerful stride, I’m convinced they can add a touch of magic to my neighborhood jogs, too.

So, here’s to friendship, mentorship, and the kind of innovation that keeps us all moving forward—whether we’re elite athletes or simply casual runners doing our best to keep up. And if you happen to spot me out there in my new On Running shoes, just know I’m channeling my inner Hellen Obiri, one sweet (and slow) step at a time.