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.
Category Archives: Profiles
Second Round of 50 States Complete
Congratulations to Elizabeth Schieferdecker (HF5013) for completing her second round of 50 states (half marathons) on June 6th at the Mainly Marathons Independence Series in Thomas Bull State Park, New York. Congratulations Elizabeth! Photo and Post Credit Mainly Marathons
Celebrating 50 States, Titanium, Sun Status & 100th Marathon Achievements
Congratulations to Jennifer Durenberger (MM16308, DA3842, HF18959) She completed her 50-state journey at the Mainly Marathons Independence Series in Elkton, Maryland on June 4, 2026. Congratulations to Liz Gmerek (MM6413, DA383, HF382) on completing her 9th full round of all 50 states at the Mainly Marathons Independence Series in Elkton, Maryland on June 4, 2026.Continue reading “Celebrating 50 States, Titanium, Sun Status & 100th Marathon Achievements”
600th Marathon Complete
Keenan Haga (MM9947) celebrated a remarkable achievement by completing his 600th marathon at the Mainly Marathons Independence Series on June 5th in Stonersville, PA. Notably, more than a third of his marathons have been 50K or longer, showcasing his dedication and endurance in long-distance running. This milestone underscores Haga’s commitment to the sport, and the running community congratulates him on this impressive accomplishment. Photo and post credits go to Mainly Marathons.
Celebrating the Completion of 10th Full Round of all 50 States
Kevin Brosi (MM94) has achieved an impressive milestone by completing his tenth full round of running in all 50 states. This accomplishment took place during the Mainly Marathons Independence Series held in Bear, Delaware. His dedication to this ambitious goal has been recognized and celebrated. The event not only highlights Brosi’s endurance and commitment but also contributes to the broader community of marathon runners and enthusiasts. Congratulations to him on this significant achievement!
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.