Medal Monday highlights achievements from members of the Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics, featuring stories from various races. Noteworthy accounts include Randy Riley overcoming challenges post-surgery, Amy Sea’s sub-3 hour finish, and Carla Champ Marie Simon’s return to racing. Members celebrate personal milestones, share race experiences, and connect with fellow runners.
Category Archives: Profiles
Featured Club Member: Samuel Lafaye MM #14775
Sam Lafaye, a former Marine, began running competitively after military service but faced injuries leading to surgeries. Despite challenges, he pursued running across 32 states, completing 82 half marathons and 12 full marathons, including major events. He promotes health and well-being, emphasizing that age shouldn’t hinder personal improvement.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 4 Chapter 4
Medal Monday showcases inspiring achievements from Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics. Members share stories of completing multiple marathons across states, personal milestones, and camaraderie in their running journeys. Highlights include Karen Murray’s transformation into a 50-stater and achievements of others like Jennifer Clark and Gysel Parajon, celebrating continuous dedication in running.
2nd Round of 50 States Completed at Mainly Marathons Appalachian Series
Karen “Evil Twin” Vollan completed her second round of 50 states at the Mainly Marathons Appalachian Series in Etowah, North Carolina, on March 24, 2025. She is a notable inductee in multiple hall of fames, including the 2021 Double Agent Hall of Fame. Congratulations, Karen!
2025 Half Fanatics Hall of Fame Inductee Elizabeth Schieferdecker
Elizabeth Schieferdecker HF# 5013 has been inducted into the Half Fanatics Hall of Fame for 2025. She achieved eligibility by completing 51 or more half marathons per year for three consecutive years. Congratulations to her on this distinguished honor and welcome to the class of 2025!
Half Fanatics Hall of Fame 2025 Inductee Jennifer Clark
Jennifer Clark (HF16743, DA3643, MM15623) has been inducted into the Half Fanatics Hall of Fame for 2025 after completing her 333rd half marathon during the Mainly Marathon Gulf Coast Series. She celebrated this achievement with fellow runners in her home state of Mississippi. Congratulations to her on this honor!
Featured Club Member: Olivia Medina
Olivia Medina, a 42-year-old from North Central Florida, shares her running journey as a Marathon Maniac. After competing in high school and overcoming health setbacks, she has completed 53 marathons, including 2 Ultras. With six states left to complete her 50-state goal, she aims to qualify for the Boston Marathon next.
Featured Club Member: Lawrence Allie Maniac #16034
The author, initially unathletic, became a marathon enthusiast after the chaos of September 11th. After realizing the need for fitness, they started running and aimed for marathons, completing 77 in various locations. They also enjoy biking, triathlons, and volunteering at races, while cherishing the community and experiences gained through their passion.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 4 Chapter 3
Medal Monday highlights various achievements from members of the Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics. Recent events featured include the Ventura Marathon and Cowtown races, alongside personal stories of triumph and perseverance. Notable individuals shared their experiences from completing marathons to overcoming challenges, showcasing the camaraderie and spirit of this running community.
Featured Club Member: Jose Eduardo Garcia MM 9662
In 2024, I experienced a remarkable year despite facing challenges, including a stress fracture that forced me to cancel races. I completed the Great Wall Marathon, enriched by the support of my future wife. I also participated in the historic Olympic Games Paris Marathon and qualified for the World Marathon Majors Championship in Sydney.