Legendary former NHLer Zdeno Chara ran in the Boston Marathon yesterday, finishing with a time of 3 hours, 38 minutes, and 23 seconds. Chara, a 6 foot 9 defenseman from Slovakia, was drafted by the Islanders in the third round of the 1996 NHL draft. After a couple seasons with the Islanders and Senators, Chara ended up in Boston where he became the captain and helped lead the team to the 2010-2011 Stanley Cup victory. Chara also won the Messier NHL leadership award that season. Chara won the Norris award in the 2008-2009 NHL season.
Chara played in 1,680 career NHL games, scoring 209 goals and assisting 471 for a total of 680 points. He was a +301 in his career, and had 2,085 PIMs. In the playoffs, Chara participated in 200 games, netting 18 goals and 52 assists for a total of 70 points.
Despite retiring from the NHL, Chara, now 46, has continued to stay in elite shape. His impressive completion of the Boston Marathon showcases his dedication to fitness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. As a role model to many, Chara’s dedication to personal growth and achievements beyond his professional career is truly inspirational.
