Matt Murray had won, his arms stretched wide to reveal the logo on his chest, showing everyone that "Murray, USA" was a world champion. But, it was a different name on his body, less noticeable, that gave the victory a deeper meaning.

"Geoffrey Cheruiyot." 

That name, written on the sneakers that propelled Murray across that finish line in Gold Coast, Australia, holds a special place in his heart.

Geoffrey Cheruiyot was Murray's friend, a former college track competitor and the inspiration for Murray's victory in the men's 25-29 division at the 2018 ITU Age Group Standard-Distance Triathlon World Championships.  

"When the hurt became unbearable, I thought of my friend, Geoffrey, who passed away this year," Murray said after the race. "He was a good friend of mine, and we raced track together in college as recently as this May."

Cheruiyot, a former long-distance runner at Middle Tennessee State University, tragically passed away in May at the age of 23. He and Murray met at the 2017 Conference USA Indoor Track & Field Championships, and the two quickly became friends. 

"Even though he had just beat me, we shared a laugh about how the race went down," Murray recalled. "It was a great experience for me as a new collegiate runner, who didn't really know what to expect, to be met with such fierce competition juxtaposed with such great friendship."

They'd go on to race each other two more times. 

"One of the most vivid memories I have is showing up to do a warm up workout a few days before the race and being met by a huge smile, a dap and a hug," Murray said. "That meet (the 2018 Conference USA Outdoor Championships) was the last time I saw him."

After he learned of his friend's passing, Murray knew he wanted to do something to honor Geoffrey. 

"I've raced with his name on my shoes ever since," Murray said. 

The Age Group World Championships last week were no different. 

"Every time (I'd start hurting), I would think, 'Let's get it, Geoffrey,' during that run," Murray said. "The pain would subside and my pace would quicken. I didn't even realize how fast I was running until my brother told me."

"I hadn't planned on winning a World Championship either, even when I got off the bike in fifth. I didn't think it was within reach, but as I was running, I remembered how strong of a runner Geoffrey was, and used him as inspiration. He was at the forefront of my mind as I was coming down the finish chute."

That was enough to push Murray to an achievement he'll always remember, thanks to a friend he'll never forget.