This weekend, I participated in the Garmin Kansas City Marathon after months of anticipation. Arriving from Columbus, I spent Friday exploring local attractions, including the American Jazz Museum. On race day, cold temperatures and challenging hills influenced my decision to skip the full marathon, feeling unprepared due to recent health issues. Despite this, I enjoyed reconnecting with running friends. My return flight faced significant delays, but Southwest kindly changed my itinerary, allowing me to arrive home five hours early. This marks my 33rd half marathon, with Missouri being my thirteenth state.
Tag Archives: Hilly Course
Charm City Finish: A 50-State Finale in Baltimore
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.
Lifetime Half #267: Randy Riley at the Akron Marathon Half
Randy Riley ran the hilly Akron Marathon Half for lifetime half #267, finishing in 2:41:55, three minutes ahead of his goal and third in his age group.
Bad Bass Half Marathon Recap: “Probably Killed a Few Toenails”
Lynne Kilirnr recently completed the Bad Bass half marathon, a challenging course featuring steep hills. To meet two crucial checkpoints, she started early, taking her time to enjoy the scenery despite suffering from sore knees and some toenail damage. Prior to the race, she had been helping her mother recover from a fall, which contributed to her own back pain. Ultimately, she enjoyed running alongside her friend Chau Smith and participating in the event after volunteering to help set up.
Conquering Marathon 957 at the Sarmang Dehradun Marathon
Sivabalan Pandian completed his 957th marathon at the Sarmang Dehradun Marathon on October 5, 2025. This AIMS member event showcased a certified Boston Qualifier course in a scenic, hilly area. At 67, he enjoyed the run, supporting fellow participants, and aspires to reach 1000 marathons by 2026.
Paavo Nurmi Marathon Recap
Gysel Parajon recaps her experience at the Paavo Nurmi Marathon in Hurley, WI, where she completed her 31st state marathon with a personal best. Despite prior injuries, a combination of factors contributed to her success, including training, nutrition, and positive mindset. The race, despite rain, was enjoyable and invigorating.
Triumph Over Trials: Youngstown Marathon Sole to City Half Marathon Recap
Randy Riley reports on the challenges faced during the Youngstown Marathon Sole to City Half Marathon due to customs delays and shuttle bus issues. Despite these setbacks, race directors adapted by using past medals and organizing transport. The race featured a difficult course, and several runners achieved personal bests and awards.
Brisbane Marathon, 5th Aussie Adventure
Runner Mike Hk completed his 318th marathon in Brisbane, marking it as his fifth Australian marathon. The event was well-organized, with ideal weather and ample water stations. Although lacking the vibrancy of Japanese marathons, the route featured scenic two loops with constant elevation changes. Overall, he enjoyed the experience and looks forward to future races.
Conquering Hills and Hurdles at Youngstown Marathon Sole to City Half
Randy Riley(MM14470, DA3218, HF16432) – Youngstown Marathon Sole to City Half Marathon. Tough day to be the race directors. The medals were stuck in customs and the shuttle buses that were to take us from the finish line to the start before the race didn’t show up. The RDs made everything work though. They gaveContinue reading “Conquering Hills and Hurdles at Youngstown Marathon Sole to City Half”
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 4 Chapter 8
Medal Monday features inspiring stories from Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics, showcasing achievements like Karen’s hot Montana Marathon completion, Eddie’s camaraderie at San Diego, and Amy’s sub-4 hour finish at Fargo. Highlights include milestones featuring ultramarathoners, personal bests, and reflections on the joy of running and camaraderie in the community.