Tonisia Billups recently completed her 50th half marathon in 50 states at the Baltimore Run Fest Half Marathon on October 17. Traveling from Jacksonville to Baltimore via Southwest Airlines, she stayed at an Airbnb and Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace, conveniently located near the start/finish line. Although the race started early at 9:30 AM, she had ample time to relax before running. Billups described the hilly course, emphasizing the constant uphill terrain. Achieving this milestone with friends, she finished the race in 2:43, celebrating her accomplishment.
Tag Archives: DA1998
Red-Eye to the Start Line: A Cape Cod Half Adventure
Tonisia Billups shared her experiences from the Cape Cod Half Marathon weekend, detailing her travel logistics amidst work commitments. She flew into Providence, Rhode Island, rented a car from Hertz after a delayed flight, and drove to Massachusetts for the Saturday race. Despite logistical challenges, she enjoyed the scenic coastal course, though it was open to traffic. After the race, she celebrated with clam chowder and an impromptu trip to Martha’s Vineyard, marking state #48. The overall experience was a mix of excitement and high-stress travel.
Coastal Finish & State #49 at the Amica Newport Half
Tonisia Billups recounted her experience of racing at the Amica Newport Half Marathon after a hectic travel weekend. Squeezing in events around work, she flew into Rhode Island, raced in Massachusetts, and returned to Newport, tackling an uphill start that challenged her. Despite the logistical hurdles and an irritating runner who kept cutting her off, she ultimately found her rhythm. After finishing, she enjoyed stunning beach views and celebrated with a colleague who surprised her with a treat, marking her 49th state completed in races.
Beautiful Lake & Superior Views at Grandma’s Half
Tonisia Billups shares her experience participating in the Grandma’s Half Marathon in Minnesota. She flew from Orlando to Minneapolis and highlighted the need for caution regarding airport logistics. Staying in college dorms proved convenient, and the pre-race expo catered to 24,000 runners, featuring a spaghetti dinner. The race began at 6:00 AM, showcasing picturesque Lake Superior views, with manageable elevation changes. Despite some challenges with post-race food and shirt availability, she recommends the event but advises early planning.
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.
Running Through Churchill Downs at the Kentucky Derby Festival
Tonisia Billups participated in the Kentucky Derby Mini Half Marathon, noting a high police presence and a fenced course through Churchill Downs. She found the flat course welcoming for all runners and enjoyed the finishers’ village offerings. Afterward, she attended a Derby brunch before heading to Brooklyn, emphasizing the importance of buying a Pegasus pin for festival access.
Brooklyn NYCRUNS Half Marathon Recap
Tonisia Billups participated in the NYCRUNS Half Marathon in Brooklyn, noting key differences from the NYRR Brooklyn Half. She started in wave 4 at 9:00 AM, highlighting the race’s lack of friendliness for back-of-the-pack runners as only 1,500 finished behind her out of 28,000. Despite cold temperatures and rolling hills, she enjoyed the beautiful cherry blossoms at the finish in Prospect Park, although exiting required a long uphill walk. After the race, she celebrated with friends and recommended visiting the High Line and Little Island in Brooklyn.
Flat & Fabulous: Delaware’s Rehoboth Half Delivers
Tonisia Billups(HF10011, MM12110, DA1998) – Rehoboth Beach Half Marathon 2025Great Race, great afterparty, great vibe!Parking ✔️Race course ✔️ (fairly flat w/ nice beach front scenic variation)Post Race ✔️ (buffet, beer, blast.. cold weather, but warm tent w/ DJ) 💃🏽 🕺🏽 🪩People ✔️Highly RecommendProbably one of the better, if not the best, post race jams 🎶)StateContinue reading “Flat & Fabulous: Delaware’s Rehoboth Half Delivers”