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Introduction: More Than Just a Famous Name
When you hear the name Van Halen, rock and roll royalty immediately comes to mind. But Aric Van Halen, son of legendary drummer Alex Van Halen, has carved out a legacy entirely his own.
He’s a man of dual identities: a former world-class steeplechase runner who chased Olympic dreams, and a gifted photographer with a unique artistic vision. Aric’s journey is a compelling story of forging one’s own path while navigating the pressures of a famous last name.
Growing Up Van Halen
Raised in the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Encino and Calabasas, Aric’s childhood was immersed in creativity. He initially followed a musical path, learning to play the violin, piano, drums, saxophone, and guitar.
Despite this musical upbringing, Aric found his true passion elsewhere. He discovered a natural talent for athletics, first in baseball and then, decisively, in track and field during the seventh grade. This was the moment he started running down a different track from his rockstar father.
The Making of a Steeplechase Runner
Aric’s running career began with a bang. In eighth grade, he ran a blistering 5:10 mile, signaling the arrival of a special talent. This raw ability eventually led him to the University of Colorado, where he honed his skills and specialized in one of track and field’s most grueling events: the 3000-meter steeplechase.
The steeplechase, with its barriers and water jumps, requires a unique combination of endurance, athleticism, and courage. It was the perfect fit for Aric, who possessed the physical prowess and mental fortitude to excel in the demanding discipline.
Chasing Olympic Dreams
At the University of Colorado, Aric blossomed into a world-class athlete. He earned First Team All-American honors and established himself as one of the nation’s elite steeplechasers. His personal best time of 8:32.92 stands as a testament to his dedication and talent.
The pinnacle of his competitive career came in 2016 when he qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials. This achievement was particularly sweet, as it came after a frustrating hamstring injury that sidelined him for the entire 2015 season. It was a moment of validation for years of hard work.
Rediscovering the Love of Running
After stepping away from the intense pressure of competitive running, Aric rediscovered his love for the sport on his own terms. A pivotal experience was his participation in The Speed Project, an unsanctioned, ultra-endurance relay race from Los Angeles to Las Vegas.
This grueling event helped him reconnect with the pure joy of running, free from the constraints of times and standings. It was during this period that he earned the nickname “The Float God” for his seemingly effortless running style. Today, he runs for himself, finding peace and fulfillment on the open road.
From Athlete to Artist
In a fascinating second act, Aric has transitioned from a world-class athlete to a professional photographer. He brings the same passion and discipline that fueled his running career to his artistic pursuits, specializing in sports and athletic imagery.
His background gives him a unique perspective, allowing him to capture the raw emotion and physicality of sports in a way that few others can. Through his lens, he combines his two greatest passions, creating powerful and dynamic images.
Life in Los Angeles
Now based in Pasadena, Aric has a nuanced relationship with his hometown. He loves the vibrant landscape, from the mountains to the beaches, but finds the crowds and traffic challenging after spending a decade in the more relaxed environment of Boulder, Colorado.
He continues to balance his photography work with his personal running, finding inspiration in the diverse and energetic culture of Los Angeles.
Philosophy and Future Aspirations
Aric lives with a philosophy of pushing boundaries, both physical and mental. He’s intrigued by the idea of conquering his fear of heights by skydiving and dreams of catching the perfect wave while surfing.
He embodies a spirit of continuous growth and exploration, always looking for the next challenge, whether it’s on the track, behind the camera, or in life itself.
The Van Halen Legacy Continues
Aric Van Halen has successfully stepped out of the shadow of his family’s iconic name to create a legacy all his own. He has proven that talent runs in the family, but it flows in many different directions.
From the athletic arena to the art world, Aric has demonstrated that with passion and determination, it’s possible to honor your heritage while composing a unique and inspiring life story.
