Meet William Wehril
Please Tell Us About Yourself and How You Got Into Running.
My name is William Wehrli, and I am an adult with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I hold a Master's Degree in Special Education and have been an advocate for autism awareness through my social media presence. Being diagnosed at the age of 4 and initially nonverbal until I was 6, I have overcome many challenges and now strive to educate others about autism while sharing my personal experiences. I currently reside in Pendleton, Oregon, where I live with my loyal companion, a chocolate Labrador retriever named Rossy.
My running journey has been quite unexpected. Back in high school, I used to despise running. I would always dread running during football and basketball practice. But I got into sports because I wanted to be more socially acceptable amongst people.
In 2019, I found myself at a turning point in my life. Working graveyard shifts as a security officer had taken a toll on my health, leading to significant weight gain that left me feeling ashamed and uncomfortable in my skin. The realization that I was not fitting into my clothes and the desire to make a positive change sparked my decision to embark on a fitness journey. Despite my initial aversion to cardio exercises, I recognized the undeniable benefits that come with it, especially the release of endorphins that uplift both the body and mind.
“Despite my initial aversion to cardio exercises, I recognized the undeniable benefits that come with it, especially the release of endorphins that uplift both the body and mind.”
What Inspired You to Participate in the Colt Creek Trail Race this past April?
Participating in the Colt Creek Race this past April was a decision born out of a desire for new experiences and adventures. This year, I felt a strong pull towards exploring beyond the confines of my small town in Oregon, seeking to break free from the routine and embrace the opportunity to see the world.
I began researching upcoming races, eventually stumbling upon the Colt Creek Race in Florida. The allure of Florida's beauty and the promise of a vibrant and diverse experience beckoned to me, making it an enticing destination for my next journey. Additionally, the prospect of exploring new horizons and embracing the freedom of solo travel resonated deeply with me, motivating me to take the leap and participate in the race.
“The allure of Florida's beauty and the promise of a vibrant and diverse experience beckoned to me, making it an enticing destination for my next journey.”
What’s Been Your Most Memorable Running Experience so Far?
My most recent running experience, which I won’t forget, was participating in the Helix fun run. I was unprepared for this because it was super cold and windy, and I was running a 10k in that weather through many big hills.
The Colt Creek State Park run was probably my most positive running experience because I never thought I would get first place in my age group. Running outside near palm trees with a lot of other people was great. I live in a small town filled with people who have different schedules and different fitness level commitments, so I have no one to really run with.
“The Colt Creek State Park run was probably my most positive running experience because I never thought I would get first place in my age group. Running outside near palm trees with a lot of other people was great.”
What’s Next for You in Your Running Journey?
Do You Have Any Upcoming Goals or Races You’re Excited About?
On the weekend of May 10, I finished a 10K race in Astoria, Oregon. It was beautiful, and the smell of fresh land and the ocean made for an amazing running experience.
As of right now, I am still looking into upcoming races. I’d like to travel outside the country and participate in a race. I’ve heard the Disney marathon is exciting but hard to get into. I would love to travel to New York and do a race there.
My other goals are to continue raising awareness of autism, buy a big house, and meet the woman God has in mind for me. My lifelong ambition is to become a movie or TV star.
