Tales From Medal Monday Vol. 5 Ch. 9: Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics share their latest race stories, timed loop runs, new medals and big milestones.
Tag Archives: Half Marathon
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 8
Medal Monday highlights inspiring achievements of Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics. Recent stories celebrate participants completing various milestones, including Jennifer Durenberger’s 50-state journey, Liz Gmerek’s 1,000th marathon, and other notable accomplishments at recent races. Members shared insights about race experiences, including the Eau Claire Half Marathon’s unique features and scenic courses. The community spirit was prevalent, with members supporting each other through challenges. Anniversaries and accomplishments of various runners were acknowledged, contributing to a sense of camaraderie and perseverance among participants.
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.
Second Round of 50 States Complete
Congratulations to Elizabeth Schieferdecker for completing her second round of 50 states half marathons at the Mainly Marathons Independence Series in NY.
Run Family at the Red Island State Marathon
The Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics run family gathered for a pre-race family photo at the Red Island State Marathon in Warwick, RI on May 31, 2026.
Run Family at the Fargo Marathon Weekend
Before the race begins, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running family makes it a tradition to take a ‘Family Photo.’ This group was captured in a quick snapshot before the Fargo Marathon and Half Marathon on May 31, 2026, in Fargo, North Dakota. The photo highlights the camaraderie among runners as they gather nationwide for various races. The post and photo were credited to Toni Billups and Jacqueline Schreiver, showcasing their involvement in this vibrant running community.
Double Milestone Celebration: 800 Marathons and 50 States
Double milestone at the Mainly Marathons Prairie Series: Tim Mahler runs his 800th marathon and Pam Begnaud completes her 50 states half marathon journey.
Celebrating the Completion of Three 50 States Marathon Journeys
Cyd Antang-Plotkin, Matt Johnston, and Karen Simmons have all achieved significant milestones in their running journeys by completing the challenge of finishing marathons in all 50 states. Cyd celebrated her second full round on May 15th, while Matt and Karen reached their 50 states completions on May 11th and May 8th, respectively. These achievements were all recognized during the Mainly Marathons Prairie Series. Congratulations to all three for their remarkable accomplishments in endurance running!
Half Fanatics Sun Status Achieved: Mitch Montgomery Hits Milestone
Mitch Montgomery (HF18443) has achieved Sun Status in the Mainly Marathons Prairie Series on May 9, 2026. To attain this status with the Half Fanatics, runners must complete either 52 half marathons within a year or 30 half marathons across 30 different US states, countries, or Canadian provinces within the same timeframe. For more details on the criteria, visit the Half Fanatics website. Congratulations to Mitch!
Athens Ohio Half Marathon 2026 Race Report & Review
Randy Riley returned to Athens, Ohio, to run the half marathon 60 years after his first visit for Boys State. Starting downtown, the course includes a sharp downhill and transitions to a fast, gently rolling bike trail, finishing on Pruitt Field’s track. Despite battling a cold, he finished 596th of 727, being the oldest participant in his age group. His nephew designed the race’s medals and shirts, contributing to a memorable experience.