Brenda Folkerts (MM15695, DA3674, HF18068) finished her first 100-miler at Ultra Fest in Easton, Washington, a day she had planned for five years. Pacers, crew, and her husband got her to the buckle after doctors said rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and POTS would keep her from it. She is calling it one and done, with 100K as her new max while she works on 50 states.
Tag Archives: Half Fanatic
Lifetime Half #267: Randy Riley at the Akron Marathon Half
Randy Riley(MM14470, DA3218, HF16432) – Akron Marathon Half today. I have run this race every year they’ve held it since the inaugural one (2009 I think). Akron is a surprisingly hilly city. My Garmin watch says we went 489 feet up during the uphill sections. Of course we came back down but in running, hillsContinue reading “Lifetime Half #267: Randy Riley at the Akron Marathon Half”
Back Where It Started: Ed Toews at the Queen City Marathon
Ed Toews (MM9501, DA3146, HF16852) returned to the Queen City Marathon, his first marathon back in 2012, and finished in 5:59, just inside the 6-hour cutoff. Mostly speed walking, a tight finish after a little back trouble, and a reminder that today was not the day he could not do this.
2026 Sydney Marathon Recap: 40,000 Runners, One Amazing Day
Maricris Lu shared her experience of completing the 2026 Sydney Marathon, marking her 84th marathon, which is also the third World Major event she participated in. Despite feeling underprepared due to shifting life priorities, she expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to cross the finish line. Running with 40,000 fellow participants made the experience remarkable. She thanked everyone for their well wishes and inspirations while mentioning her plans to share photos soon, even though she is still feeling jet lagged.
Run Family at the Hatfield McCoy Marathon Weekend
Before starting a race, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running families take a ‘Family Photo’ whenever possible. They were recently spotted taking a group picture before the Hatfield McCoy Marathon Weekend, which is scheduled to take place in Williamson, West Virginia on June 12-13, 2026. This tradition signifies the camaraderie and spirit of these running communities as they prepare for events across the nation.
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”
Six Star Finisher: Completing the World Marathon Majors at Boston 2026
Jolanta Thorburn began her marathon journey in 2022 with the Chicago Marathon. She went on to run additional marathons, including New York, Seattle, Tokyo, and Berlin, all while fundraising. In 2024, she completed the London Marathon and aimed to qualify for the Boston Marathon, achieving this goal in 2025. By June 2026, she completed her 50 states + DC challenge and crossed the finish line of the 130th Boston Marathon, marking the completion of the Six World Marathon Majors.
Proud Dad Moment -Watching My 14-Year-Old Become a Half Fanatic
Paul F Dunwell IV celebrates his 14-year-old son’s achievement of becoming a Half Fanatic after completing the Run Sunset Beach Half Marathon with a personal record of 2:15:56.4. He emphasizes their careful training approach and expresses pride in his son’s determination and grit, encouraging him to pursue his passion responsibly.
Run Family at the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon Weekend
Before the race begins, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running family takes time to capture a ‘Family Photo’ whenever possible. This tradition was upheld at the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, held in Oklahoma City, OK, on April 26, 2026. The group, known for their presence at races across the country, gathered for a quick group shot, documenting their camaraderie and shared passion for running. The photo was credited to Randy Brinkley, showcasing their unity and enthusiasm before the event.
Run Family at the Boston Marathon
Before the race, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running family takes a moment to capture a ‘Family Photo.’ This tradition, observed at races across the country, was honored before the Boston Marathon in Boston, MA on April 19, 2026. The photograph serves not only as a keepsake but also reflects the camaraderie and spirit shared among participants. The group shot embodies their dedication to running and the community they have built through various events. Photo Credit goes to Marathon Maniacs.