Running isn’t just a form of exercise for Mykola ‘Nick’ Taran. It’s a way of life. So when Nick moved to Anchorage a few months ago, he took a job at The Alaska Club West to earn money and a free gym membership to help with his training. What he didn’t expect to gain was a community of supportive members and coworkers who are both in awe and encouraged by his story.
“During Nick’s interview he shared his passion for running and fitness,” says Stacey Ledgerwood, Operations Manager of TAC West and Club for Women. “I knew he would do a good job because he planned to use the facility for his personal goals too. He is a hard worker and has a great attitude. He has connected with the West family, members and coworkers.”
Nick, who is from Ukraine, is an ultra-runner and pacemaker who has participated in races around the globe. “My running journey has taken me from marathons to ultramarathons across the world,” says Nick. “I have finished over 100 races worldwide: in Norway, France, Poland, Spain, Italy, Hungary, Turkey, Denmark, Germany, Slovakia, Lithuania, Latvia, Sweden, Austria, Czech Republic, Switzerland and representing Ukraine in more than 20 countries.” He’s a 4-time Ukrainian record holder in ultramarathon running, the first Ukrainian to complete 45 miles in Norway, Oslo twice (2018, 2019), 49 miles in Oslo, Norway (2023), and 50 miles in Paris, France (2024).
While Nick runs for enjoyment and exercise, he also runs with purpose. “I organized charity runs in Europe including Barcelona, Rome, and Paris to name a few and in the US including New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, and Honolulu,” says Nick. He ran 155 miles to raise funds for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, serving as an ambassador for United24 and Dobro UA’s Unbroken Project.
He is the first Ukrainian pacemaker on an American team, helping other runners maintain a steady pace through their race. It’s a role he relishes. “Being a pacemaker in a marathon is both an honor and a responsibility. It is a true pride to help runners reach their goals, whether it’s a personal best or simply crossing the finish line,” says Nick. “Leading others on their journey reminds me that running is not only about personal achievements, but also about support, teamwork, and shared success.”
When Nick first arrived in the United States more than a year ago, he lived in New York. But planned to eventually head West. Once he arrived in Alaska, he knew he had found the right place. “I plan to live here for all my life; Alaska is my dream and I’m in love with it.” When he’s not at work or training at the club, Nick enjoys running the trails and mountains of Southcentral. Despite his long resume of races, Nick says he’s not done yet. He finished 1st for males and overall, in the Portland Marathon on October 5. And he has plans to run the Las Vegas Marathon and Anchorage’s Zombie Half Marathon later this month. Nick is already setting goals for 2026 when he aims to tackle both the Denali Ultra 100K and the New York City Marathon.
Nick’s vision is to promote a culture of health, endurance, and motivation. He says working at The Alaska Club allows him the opportunity to do that by helping people discover the power of running and sharing the joy that it has brought to his life. “Working at The Alaska Club gives me the opportunity to grow, stay active, and help others achieve their goals,” says Nick. “I’m proud to be part of a team that inspires people to live healthier and happier lives.”