Math philosopher tests assumptions at Brownville's freedom run

BROWNVILLE – There were a lot of numbers Paul Durbin could have contemplated on his four and a half hour, half marathon run at the Brownville Freedom Festival Monday.

There were numbers like the 250 participants at the run’s peak before the pandemic, 100 runners in the half-marathon alone and the enviable number 1:29 - that’s how long it took Cory Logston of Omaha to finish the route in 2018.

The mathematics philosopher and Vietnam veteran came in last on Monday, still claiming victory.

Durbin: “This is one of my favorite runs because it gets me out away from cars, horns and sirens. I’ve been out at least four hours and doing is winning, so right now, I’ve got an intense runner’s high.”

He arrived at the finish line looking for a drink and a pencil.

Durbin: “So 2q squared is 4k squared. I’m going to divide both sides by 2. Oh, q squared must be even!”

 

His calculations challenge assumptions about rational numbers and his age of 79 challenges assumptions about runners.

Durbin: “I have a qualitative life most of my peers can’t image, yes. I’ve been into running 57 years and I have no knee issues. RAAF – rest, alternative activity and flexibility  -- crucial. And stay off the pavement.”

Ron Heskett said this year may the last for the freedom run, which would make Durbin the last finisher ever. Durbin offered this advice for chasing the numbers.

Durbin: “Understanding. Using the calculator between your ears.”