EOU Alumnus Nic Maszk Wins 2025 Portland Marathon

EOU Alumnus Nic Maszk Wins 2025 Portland Marathon

EOU Alumnus Nic Maszk Wins 2025 Portland Marathon

PORTLAND, Ore. - Former Eastern Oregon University standout distance runner Nic Maszk crossed the finish line of the 2025 Portland Marathon in first place on Sunday, Oct. 5, completing the 26.2-mile course in an astonishing 2 hours, 26 minutes, and 52 seconds, more than two minutes ahead of the runner-up.

That time ranks Nic within the top one percent of marathon performances worldwide, solidifying Maszk's place as an elite runner.

"My goal was to win," he said. "You never really know who's going to show up, but when all the training lands on the goal, that's the best feeling."

From Baker to EOU: Building the Foundation

Maszk's running journey began at Baker High School, where he discovered a natural talent despite frequent coaching changes. But it was at Eastern Oregon University, under long-time coach Ben Welch, where he said he found the structure and consistency that shaped his growth.

"When I got to college, Ben was my coach the entire time," Maszk said. "That structure was the majority of my growth as a runner. His coaching style taught me how to be tough and how to give 100% of myself on days I didn't want to. You can apply that lesson to anything in life."

Maszk earned his bachelor's degree in molecular biology in 2017 and a master's in education in 2018, both from EOU. He went on to teach science at North Powder Charter School for three years before deciding to pursue a new career path. Today, he's completing his nursing degree.

The Road to Portland

The Portland Marathon marked Maszk's third marathon, following strong showings in Eugene and Anchorage, where he also claimed a win.

"The race in Portland went really smoothly until the last four miles," Maszk recalled. "Both my hamstrings started to lock up, and I just kept thinking, 'How can I finish this without cramping?' I knew I was on borrowed time."

Despite the pain, he powered through to victory, proof that his methodical training and mental preparation paid off.

"I'm self-coached," he said. "I make a training sheet, plan the workouts, and practice the pain every day. Race day is unique, though, there are always unknowns you can't fully prepare for."

Motivation and Mindset

Now a father of two, Ari, 4, and Ivy, 2, Maszk says his motivation extends beyond competition.

"I want my kids to see what discipline looks like," he said. "As I've gotten older, I've found more intrinsic motivators. Running keeps me grounded and healthy, and the better you do, the more opportunities you get to travel and compete."

Looking Ahead

Maszk isn't slowing down anytime soon. He's already preparing for his next challenge and has his eyes on completing all seven of the world's major marathons.

"There are seven majors now, with Sydney being added recently," he said. "I'd love to do them all. Boston and Chicago are probably at the top of my list."

Words for the Next Generation

When asked what advice he'd offer current EOU student-athletes, Maszk stepped into a coach's mindset:

"Don't just focus on the physical side of your sport," he said. "Learn why your training works. Be a student of your sport. When you understand the 'why,' you can tweak and adapt, and that makes all the difference."

He added that athletics teach lessons that carry far beyond the track:

"You learn how to fail and how to lose. Running is fickle; things don't always go your way. But when they do, you feel like the luckiest person in the world. Learning to be grateful when things go right, that's the best lesson running ever gave me."

Maszk continues to represent Eastern Oregon with pride, both on the road and in life. From his days as a Mountaineer to his recent marathon triumph, his journey reflects the resilience, discipline, and heart that define the EOU spirit.