Running in their father’s footsteps

Stanley Kimball Jr. took up running marathons in his 40s. A huge challenge, but one he was up to. After all, you can do pretty much anything after the marathon-like task of raising seven boys.

Following their parents’ example, the boys are now married with families of their own. The comparisons don’t end there, though. The Kimball brothers will be literally following in their father’s footsteps as all seven assemble in Utah Saturday for the 26.22-mile St. George Marathon.

Seven brothers running a combined 184 miles may seem odd, but it’s a natural fit for brothers who surf, golf and even jump out of helicopters to snowboard together. Most of them already have marathon experience.

Stanley III, 48, Stephen, 44, Peter, 42, John, 39, and Scott, 31, Kimball have all run marathons before. Stephen and Peter each have a dozen on their records. Anthony, 34, and James, 29, will have five veteran brothers to help them through their first attempt.

Why put themselves through the gauntlet of a 26-mile run?

“We thought it’d be fun to get the brothers together,” Stephen says. Stanley and Joan Kimball’s sons grew up in Emerald Bay, with six of seven going to Laguna Beach High School. They played football, swam and surfed. Constantly involved sports together and going to church together, the Kimballs have a sturdy bond.

“We’re all really good friends,” Stephen said. “We’re hanging around each other all the time.”

All members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, church and family were ideals that bonded the brothers.

“I think what keeps us together is our religion, it’s kind of the thread that ties us together,” Peter says.

All seven completed missions trips and ventures abroad, yet somehow Stanley III, Stephen, Peter, and James all still live in Laguna Beach.

John is a short drive away in Aliso Viejo while Scott is in New York City, and Anthony lives in Chandler, Ariz. The brothers in the area meet six days a week — every day but the Sabbath — to run.

Stanley Kimball, who turns 76 Wednesday, wanted to make the run with his boys, but his doctor said it was out of the question. That kind of dedication is what makes running infectious in the family. It’s no surprise seeing how similar the brothers are.

“If one person gets into one thing, we all get into it,” Peter said.

It’s all part of the family atmosphere Stanley and Joan Kimball, who are now the proud grandparents of 22, tried to instill in their seven sons.

“Our parents put a lot of importance on family togetherness,” Stephen said.

The Kimball’s will carry that ideal’s standard as they run — together.