Medal Monday brings many stories of achievement for our members. Here are recent stories from the Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics, as told by you, as posted on the Marathon Maniacs/Half Fanatics Facebook pages. Claire Gladstone(MM12421)- Here is my #Medalmonday on Thursday😜Actually ran 30 Miles, but they were gracious enough to give me this gorgeousContinue reading “Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 9”
Category Archives: Half Marathon
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 8
Medal Monday highlights inspiring achievements of Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics. Recent stories celebrate participants completing various milestones, including Jennifer Durenberger’s 50-state journey, Liz Gmerek’s 1,000th marathon, and other notable accomplishments at recent races. Members shared insights about race experiences, including the Eau Claire Half Marathon’s unique features and scenic courses. The community spirit was prevalent, with members supporting each other through challenges. Anniversaries and accomplishments of various runners were acknowledged, contributing to a sense of camaraderie and perseverance among participants.
Eau Claire Half Marathon 2026 Race Report
Tonisia Billups attended the Eau Claire Half Marathon in Wisconsin on May 3, 2026. The event featured an easy direct flight to MSP and accommodations at Springhill Suites, close to the race. The pre-race expo at the Sonnetag Event Center included local charm with line dancing, a participant name backdrop, helpful merchandise, and a unique course review session. The race received high ratings, showcasing a scenic riverside route with rolling hills. Post-race festivities included a vibrant finishers’ village, live music, and local attractions, enhancing the overall experience.
Run Family at the Red Island State Marathon
Before hitting the starting line, we always try to snap a ‘Family Photo’ when possible. The Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running family—spotted at races nationwide—grabbed a quick group shot ahead of the Red Island State Marathon in Warwick, RI as part of the New England Challenge II Series on May 31, 2026. Photo andContinue reading “Run Family at the Red Island State Marathon”
Run Family at the Fargo Marathon Weekend
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.
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.
Dollywood Half Marathon 2026 Race Report: Winning at Dollywood
Sadie Smith(MM12709) – I love Dolly Parton. Love her. I have loved her way back before it was cool to do so. So when my college friend, Nate Sweeney, posted about running the inaugural Dollywood half marathon, I rather over- enthusiastically jumped on that bandwagon. And much like Dolly herself, this morning was joyful andContinue reading “Dollywood Half Marathon 2026 Race Report: Winning at Dollywood”
Cap City Half Marathon Weekend 2026: Running for Fun with the Half Fanatics
Brian Johnson(MM8807, DA707, HF7287) – My thoughts on the Cap City Half Marathon weekend.This year I chose to run it as a participant instead of pacing it. I had a lot of fun.I was also able to help coordinate, with quite a lot of help from Deborah Coleman, a meet-up weekend for the Half FanaticsContinue reading “Cap City Half Marathon Weekend 2026: Running for Fun with the Half Fanatics”
Dollywood Butterfly Challenge Review – Great Concept, Execution Needs Work
Nicole Charlton-Nauroth(HF7645) – Half 169 Dollywood Butterfly ChallengeThis was their first year so I’ve had a lot of people ask me to let them know how it went. Short answer: it was fine. Would I do it again? Probably not. Nothing catastrophic went wrong but they have a lot to work on. It was alsoContinue reading “Dollywood Butterfly Challenge Review – Great Concept, Execution Needs Work”
Capital City Half Marathon – A Fantastic Race Day in Columbus
Jennifer Clark participated in the Capital City Half Marathon in Columbus, Ohio, marking her 404th half marathon. She expressed gratitude for crossing the finish line in a race with nearly 12,000 runners, highlighting the excellent crowd and police support. Jennifer enjoyed an after party and a pre-race pasta dinner organized by Brian Johnson. She shared photos from the day, including the finish line and her medal, and looks forward to her next race.