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.
Tag Archives: half fanatics
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.
Scenic Lake Superior to Shaded Winnipeg: Amy Sea’s Cross-Border Half Marathon Double
Amy Sea recapped her memorable weekend of running, completing two half marathons in the USA and Canada. She participated in Grandma’s Half in Duluth, MN, which celebrated its 50th anniversary with great organization and scenic views of Lake Superior, achieving her first back-to-back sub-3 hours finishes since 2021. The Manitoba Half in Winnipeg, while less iconic, was also well-organized and fast, providing a friendly atmosphere for runners. She recommends both races with some logistical considerations for participants.
From Rolling Hills to Grilled Cheese: Stillwater Scenic Half
Scott Pearson(HF18577) – It was a great morning for a run. We still don’t quite have the heat wave. Like 60 to start. 70 at the end. This was a nice scenic course. Light rolling hills throughout for about 500 foot of elevation change, but nothing really nasty. Overall I felt pretty good This wasContinue reading “From Rolling Hills to Grilled Cheese: Stillwater Scenic Half”
Sivagiri Marathon – A Hidden Gem in Tamil Nadu, India!
Sivabalan Pandian successfully completed the SIVAGIRI MARATHON on June 21, 2026, in Sivagiri, Tamil Nadu. The event was well-organized, providing ample aid stations with food and drinks, and support from over 100 volunteers and cyclists. Runners enjoyed features like water spraying chambers and ice baths at the finish line. Despite being in a small town, the marathon offered a positive atmosphere and scenic countryside running with minimal traffic. Pandian, now at 67, celebrated completing over 1,000 marathons.
Perfect Weather, Breathtaking Views: A Grandma’s Marathon Recap
Margie Carr recaps her experience at Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, MN, on June 20, 2026, where she participated as a 70-year-old in her 12th full marathon. This sought-after race sold out quickly, attracting 20,000 participants for its 50th anniversary. Despite challenging rolling hills and warm weather, Margie finished with a time of 6 hours and 8 minutes, close to her goal. She expressed gratitude for her coach, friends, and support along the course, contemplating future half marathons instead of fulls.
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.
Run Family at Grandma’s Marathon
Before races, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running families often capture a ‘Family Photo.’ On June 20, 2026, they gathered for a quick group shot ahead of Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, MN. This tradition of snapping photos showcases the camaraderie and shared experiences of the running community, fostering a sense of belonging among participants as they prepare to hit the starting line together, celebrating their passion for running and the bonds it creates.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 10
Medal Monday highlights numerous achievements from the Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics members, shared via their Facebook pages. Notable activities include group photos taken at various race events and individual accomplishments, such as Heather completing her 49th state and Maricris participating in her 138th half marathon. Many members shared their experiences at iconic races like Grandma’s Marathon and the Hatfield McCoy Marathon, each reflecting the camaraderie and dedication within this vibrant running community.
Run Family at the Mainly Marathons New England Series
Before beginning their race, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic community often takes a ‘Family Photo.’ This tradition was followed at the Mainly Marathons New England Series in Simsbury, CT, on June 8, 2026. The group showcased their camaraderie in a quick snapshot, capturing the spirit of runners across the nation. Jennifer Clark, along with Mainly Marathons, is credited for both the photo and the post, highlighting the significance of community in marathon events.