Tales From Medal Monday Vol. 5 Ch. 2: Half Fanatics 2026 National Meet-Up news for Capital City Half in Columbus, plus member race stories and medals.
Category Archives: Profiles
Happy Half Fanatics Anniversary Sina!
Sina Sco (HF15870) celebrates her anniversary as a Half Fanatic, which began during Super Bowl Weekend 2017. That year, she completed the Rock & Roll New Orleans marathon and qualified for Neptune status in Miami before achieving Mars status. Additionally, she reflects on her weight loss journey, which started after relocating to Texas. She emphasizes her commitment to fitness since that pivotal moment. Sina shares a recent photo from the Hot Chocolate 10K and mentions plans to run the Mesa Half Marathon soon.
Meet Club Member: Troy Hoffland
Troy Hoffland, who began running on April 9, 2024, transformed from a non-runner at 194 pounds to a passionate marathoner weighing 160 pounds. Inspired by a friend, he embraced running, aiming to compete in the historic Boston Marathon. After following a training plan and facing an injury, he secured a spot as a charity runner, raising over $15,400 for Fisher House. Troy has since participated in multiple marathons, achieving personal records and plans to run London in 2026, motivated and supported by a community of fellow runners.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 1
Medal Monday shares inspiring achievements from Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics, highlighting their progress and camaraderie in 2025. The blog features updates on new members, the unofficial leaderboard, Hall of Fame inductees, and personal stories from recent races, such as the Louisiana Marathon. Enthusiastic runners reflect on their experiences, challenges faced, and the joy found in community events. The announcement for the 2026 National Meet-Up in Ohio encourages participation and connection among members. Community support and shared journeys are central themes, fostering a strong sense of belonging and achievement.
Meet Club Member: Nita Sweeney
Nita Sweeney’s transformation began at age 49 when a friend’s social media post inspired her to start running despite her struggle with depression, obesity, and lack of motivation. Initially, she jogged privately, motivated by a charity 5k honoring her late niece. Gradually, running became a joyful experience that improved her mental and physical health. She joined a running group, completed numerous races, and even published a book, showcasing the profound impact running had on her life.
Running Milestones Achieved at 4 Corners
At the Four Corners Quad Keyah Marathon/Half Marathon in early December, Liz Gmerek achieved her 101st marathon of the year. Pelicano Monte Pascual celebrated his 900th full marathon, while Kevin Brosi completed his 105th marathon of 2025, and Victoria Carroll marked her 100th half marathon of the year. These accomplishments highlight their dedication and performance in long-distance running.
Meet Club Member: Laurie Weiner
Laurie Weiner, a 62-year-old from North Canton, Ohio, has been passionate about running since participating in her first Half Marathon in 2010. Over the years, she has completed 165 Half Marathons and 21 Marathons/50K races, utilizing Jeff Galloway’s Run, Walk, Run method. After a total knee replacement in September 2024, she resumed racing in May 2025. Her favorite events include Disneyland Paris and the Chicago Marathon. Laurie encourages all runners, especially those in the middle and back of the pack, to keep pushing forward and enjoy the journey.
Meet Club Member: Gavin Anderson (HF14007)
Gavin Anderson shares his inspiring journey from skepticism to passion for running half marathons. He completed his first half marathon in 2015, overcoming tendinitis, and became addicted to the challenge. Celebrating his heritage, he now runs in Scottish attire and recently completed his 50th half marathon, continuing to inspire others.
2025 Marathon Maniacs Hall of Fame Inductee Sherry Gottlieb
Sherry Gottlieb has been inducted into the Marathon Maniacs Hall of Fame as a 2025 member, completing 333 lifetime marathons and ultras. Her milestone was celebrated with her 333rd marathon in Athens, Greece. Friends recognized her perseverance and commitment, highlighting her impact on their running journeys. Congratulations to Sherry!
First Medal Monday Triumph as Half Fanatic
Congratulations to Jennifer Saunders(HF18911) on completing her first Medal Monday as a Half Fanatic! Jennifer Saunders(HF18911)-“My first Medal Monday as a Half Fanatic! Had a great day at the Cypress Half Marathon in Cypress, TX. Ran into another Half Fanatic there! The weather was beautiful and it was a great race.” Photo and Post CreditContinue reading “First Medal Monday Triumph as Half Fanatic”