Before the race begins, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running family makes it a tradition to take a ‘Family Photo.’ This group was captured in a quick snapshot before the Fargo Marathon and Half Marathon on May 31, 2026, in Fargo, North Dakota. The photo highlights the camaraderie among runners as they gather nationwide for various races. The post and photo were credited to Toni Billups and Jacqueline Schreiver, showcasing their involvement in this vibrant running community.
Author Archives: Maniacs Fanatics Madness
Conquering the Revel Reno Tahoe Downhill Marathon
Gysel Parajon shared her experience of running the Revel Reno Tahoe Marathon after her plans to run a local 50K fell through due to sell-out. Tapering for two weeks, she found the downhill marathon challenging yet rewarding. She enjoyed dinner with fellow runners before the race and appreciated the camaraderie during the event. Despite facing some distress that slowed her down, Gysel completed the race, finding the cold weather preferable to a previous heatwave. Overall, she relished the experience and support from friends and family.
Happy Birthday Marathon Maniacs!
On May 25, 2003, Marathon Maniacs was born. Here is the story of how that happened. We are Steve, Chris and Tony, running marathons and beyond is our passion. The more races the better. It all started on May 25, 2003. After completing the Coeur ‘d Alene Marathon, Steve Yee, Chris Warren, Tony Phillippi &Continue reading “Happy Birthday Marathon Maniacs!”
Double Milestone Celebration: 800 Marathons and 50 States
Congratulations to Tim Mahler (MM6155) who celebrated his 800th Full Marathon at the Mainly Marathons Prairie Series, May 13 in Baltic, S. Dak. Congratulations to Pam Begnaud (HF18927) for completing her 50 states journey on May 11th at the Mainly Marathons Prairie Series in South Sioux City, Nebraska. She also completed 8 half marathons inContinue reading “Double Milestone Celebration: 800 Marathons and 50 States”
2026 Marathon Maniacs Hall of Fame Inductee Heather Zeigler
Congratulations to Heather Ziegler (MM3086) for being a 2026 inductee into the Marathon Maniacs Hall of Fame. Congratulations and welcome to the class of 2026! She reached Hall of Fame Eligibility by completing 333 – Lifetime Marathons / Ultras. The criteria to be eligible for the Hall of Fame can be found here Heather Ziegler (MM3086)–Continue reading “2026 Marathon Maniacs Hall of Fame Inductee Heather Zeigler”
Celebrating the Completion of Three 50 States Marathon Journeys
Cyd Antang-Plotkin, Matt Johnston, and Karen Simmons have all achieved significant milestones in their running journeys by completing the challenge of finishing marathons in all 50 states. Cyd celebrated her second full round on May 15th, while Matt and Karen reached their 50 states completions on May 11th and May 8th, respectively. These achievements were all recognized during the Mainly Marathons Prairie Series. Congratulations to all three for their remarkable accomplishments in endurance running!
1,000 Full Marathons! Congratulations Liz Gmerek
Liz Gmerek celebrated a remarkable milestone by completing her 1,000th full marathon at the Mainly Marathons Prairie Series on May 14, 2026. Surrounded by a supportive community, she has completed nearly 600 marathons with Mainly and an impressive 920 alongside Kevin Brosi. This achievement highlights not only her dedication but also the encouragement she received from her Mainly family during the journey. The event showcased a vibrant atmosphere, symbolized by a sea of pink that represented their love and support.
Half Fanatics Sun Status Achieved: Mitch Montgomery Hits Milestone
Mitch Montgomery (HF18443) has achieved Sun Status in the Mainly Marathons Prairie Series on May 9, 2026. To attain this status with the Half Fanatics, runners must complete either 52 half marathons within a year or 30 half marathons across 30 different US states, countries, or Canadian provinces within the same timeframe. For more details on the criteria, visit the Half Fanatics website. Congratulations to Mitch!
London Marathon 2026 Pacing Experience – My 21st World Major
Aaron Stevens(MM14034) – Today’s run pacing the London Marathon. This was such a fun event, but very crowded and warm today. I had the pleasure of pacing, chatting with, and cheering on so many runners. This is an event like no other and it was quite an honor to be included on this great paceContinue reading “London Marathon 2026 Pacing Experience – My 21st World Major”
Athens Ohio Half Marathon 2026 Race Report & Review
Randy Riley returned to Athens, Ohio, to run the half marathon 60 years after his first visit for Boys State. Starting downtown, the course includes a sharp downhill and transitions to a fast, gently rolling bike trail, finishing on Pruitt Field’s track. Despite battling a cold, he finished 596th of 727, being the oldest participant in his age group. His nephew designed the race’s medals and shirts, contributing to a memorable experience.