Melissa Thigpen(MM11161, DA1293, HF9945) – Saturday Miles….Ultra Marathon #5 (Marathon or higher #12) (March 28, 2026)Saturday I ran the Mulberry Mile 12 Hour Endurance Race! I didn’t hit my goal 🥺💔 and I crashed 3x 😭🙄 but…..I did it! 😉💪🏽😁It was a cool start and very windy. We started with the Star Spangled Banner thenContinue reading “44 Miles of Grace at the Mulberry Mile”
Tag Archives: half fanatics
From “I’ll Never Run a Marathon” to 250th Marathon
Bob Strauss(MM7421) – Would my 250th marathon feel any different? Would it be any easier? A majority of the Maritime Marathon miles are run right along Lake Michigan. Pelicans were out in force as were families enjoying some beach time. Lovers of nature consistently rate this as a beautiful course and I agree.I had theContinue reading “From “I’ll Never Run a Marathon” to 250th Marathon”
At the Sri Chinmoy Midnight Marathon
Alexis Davidson celebrated an eventful 80th birthday by participating in the Midnight Marathon during the Sri Chinmoy 24HR/12HR/M/HM event. This marked her first June marathon with Sri Chinmoy and sixth overall at Rockland Lake. Despite initially feeling sleepy, she maintained consistent lap times and completed the run on a flat course with a sub 5:47 finish. The experience was enhanced by good weather and the excitement of learning about the Knicks’ win afterward. Overall, it was a fulfilling marathon experience.
Mad Marathon Mastery: Grabbing State 40 the Hard Way
Rick Albanese completed the Mad Marathon in Vermont, a race he had long anticipated. Endorsed by Chuck Engle, the atmosphere was enhanced by a wonderful pre-race dinner and camaraderie. Despite feeling underprepared due to a brief training cycle, Albanese relied on his experience and resilience from overcoming cancer. The challenging course, featuring steep ascents and descents, tested him, particularly as the heat affected his performance. Although he lost his sub-5-hour goal, he finished strong and felt proud of his accomplishment.
Chasing the Iconic Prince Medal at Summer Camp
Tahira Bland participated in her 85th lifetime half marathon as part of Mainly Marathons’ Summer Camp in Minnesota, motivated by a Prince-themed medal. This marks her third race in Minnesota, occurring about an hour from Minneapolis, and is the first of a four-race series celebrating the end of the season. The course featured scenic views on crushed gravel, with ample shade. She enjoyed the camaraderie with fellow runners and appreciated the event swag. Tahira looks forward to her next race, the Madison Mini-Marathon.
Celebrating the End of a 50 States Journey
Tim Mahaffey, identified by codes HF18276, DA3585, and MM13844, successfully completed his 50th state for half marathons. Meanwhile, Lisa Rice Seidel, associated with HF6155, DA699, and MM9014, achieved her third round of 50 states during the Mainly Marathons Heartland Series on July 17th in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Both runners were celebrated for their accomplishments, marking significant milestones in their marathon journeys. The event highlights the dedication of participants in long-distance running challenges. Photo and post credits go to Mainly Marathons.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 11
Medal Monday showcases inspiring achievements from Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics. Recent highlights include Tahira Bland running her 85th Half Marathon in Minnesota, Amy Sea completing her 225th Half amidst challenging air quality in NY, and Pam Whittington participating in a series across seven states. Dr. Bryon Solberg completed his 50th state milestone and was inducted as a Mainly Marathons Legend. Each runner shared personal stories about their experiences, races, and the supportive community, celebrating both personal and collaborative accomplishments in running.
Run Family at the Mainly Marathons Heartland Series
Before starting a race, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running community often captures a ‘Family Photo.’ During the Mainly Marathons Heartland Series, they managed to take a group photo in Hicksville, Ohio, and Niles, Michigan, on July 11 and 12, 2026. This tradition highlights the camaraderie and spirit of the running family, which is frequently seen at races across the nation, fostering a sense of unity and shared passion among the participants. Photo credit goes to Brian Johnson.
Nothing Flat About This One! RiverRoad Half Marathon
Tonisia Billups discusses her experience at the Hatfield & McCoy Half Marathon in West Virginia. Traveling from Jacksonville to Matewan, she notes logistical challenges, especially with limited hotel options near the race. Despite the heat, humidity, and hilly terrain, she enjoyed the race, choosing the RiverRoad Half, which was unexpectedly tough. The race offers fruit at fuel stations, which helped her during hotter moments. While there was minimal spectator support, she recommended the race with caution and appreciated the message at Pikeville University before her return.
Jennifer & David Clark Celebrate Loony & Little Loony Legend
Jennifer Clark recounts her extensive running achievements in a late Medal Monday post. She completed the Mainly Marathon Impendence Series, finishing with races in NJ and NY, and then switched to the New England Series, taking part in a Half Marathon and a 5K across multiple states. This marked her achievement of becoming a Loony Legend, with a total of 422 Half Marathons. The post also highlights a celebratory ceremony, including a cake and signs, and recognizes David for his own running accomplishments.