Khemjira Klongsanun is a running enthusiast from Bangkok, Thailand.
Though she enjoys racing in competitions, Klongsanun knows some things are more important than setting a record time.
Last week, Klongsanun was participating in a local marathon when something caught her eye. There, about 7 miles into the 26-mile run, she spotted a tiny puppy on the roadside with no owner or mother in sight.
Rather than continue on her way and leave the little dog to face the world alone, Klongsanun decided to briefly put the race on hold. She stopped — and scooped the helpless puppy into her arms.
But then she did so much more.
For the next 19 miles, Klongsanun carried the puppy as she ran.
She was now safe and in good hands.
There was a chance, perhaps, that Klongsanun could have handed the puppy off to a willing spectator or race official, but she did not.
Here’s footage of her and the lucky little dog making their way down the course: