Medal Monday shares inspiring achievements from Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics, highlighting their progress and camaraderie in 2025. The blog features updates on new members, the unofficial leaderboard, Hall of Fame inductees, and personal stories from recent races, such as the Louisiana Marathon. Enthusiastic runners reflect on their experiences, challenges faced, and the joy found in community events. The announcement for the 2026 National Meet-Up in Ohio encourages participation and connection among members. Community support and shared journeys are central themes, fostering a strong sense of belonging and achievement.
Tag Archives: marathon maniacs
Run Family at the Louisiana Marathon
Before the race begins, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running family captures a ‘Family Photo’ when they can. On January 18, 2025, they gathered for a quick group shot before the Louisiana Marathon in Baton Rouge. The photo was taken by Krista Shuler.
Marathon Maniacs Class of 2025
Welcome to the new members of the Marathon Maniacs for the year 2025. The community is excited to have you join, and we look forward to sharing experiences and supporting each other in our marathon journeys. Photo credit goes to the Marathon Maniacs Asylum website.
Rain, No Winds, Epic Win: My 8th Honolulu Marathon
Tina Torun details her wild experience at the 8th Honolulu Marathon. After only 2 hours of sleep and facing torrential rain, she started the race in high humidity. Despite initial challenges, including wet toes and missed aid stations, she maintained a strong pace, even spotting top finishers. Although she faced obstacles like changing socks at mile 17 and multiple restroom breaks, she achieved a personal best, finishing in 7:19:20, 2 hours and 9 minutes faster than the previous year.
Joy Was Spread at Rehoboth
Nicole DeBord achieved a significant milestone by completing her 39th marathon at the Rehoboth Beach Marathon. She expressed joy from the positive interactions with fellow runners and the breathtaking sight of migrating geese. Despite the challenges, she feels blessed to have run 10 full marathons this year. As she prepares for her 40th marathon next weekend, she encourages women to embrace solo travel, highlighting the empowerment it brings. Overall, her experience reflects gratitude and determination in pursuing her goals.
Crushing Louisiana’s Loup Garou: First Female for State #50
Elissa Schoening completed her goal of running in all 50 states on December 6, 2025, at the Loup Garou Trail Run in Louisiana, where she also secured first place among female participants in the 40-mile event. She praised the event and encouraged others to attend next year before it concludes.
Running Milestones Achieved at 4 Corners
At the Four Corners Quad Keyah Marathon/Half Marathon in early December, Liz Gmerek achieved her 101st marathon of the year. Pelicano Monte Pascual celebrated his 900th full marathon, while Kevin Brosi completed his 105th marathon of 2025, and Victoria Carroll marked her 100th half marathon of the year. These accomplishments highlight their dedication and performance in long-distance running.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 4 Chapter 21
Medal Monday brings many stories of achievement for our members. Here are recent stories from the Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics, as told by you, as posted on the Marathon Maniacs/Half Fanatics Facebook pages. Thank you all for making 2025 a great year! As an end-of-year reminder: If you wish to join the team forContinue reading “Tales From Medal Monday Volume 4 Chapter 21”
Rolling Hills to Red Carpet: Epic Weekend Win and Sub-3 at Route 66 Marathon
Sadie Smith shared her experience completing the Route 66 Marathon, celebrating her achievement as a sub-3 finisher and overall winner. She praised the race’s festive atmosphere, organized by the community of Tulsa, and noted the generous refreshments available. Smith expressed her enjoyment of the race amenities and highlighted her personal progress, finishing 30 minutes faster than in 2019, aided by motorcycle escorts. She admired the performance of second place female runners, particularly an impressive 48-year-old, emphasizing the supportive environment and well-designed course.
Meet Club Member: Laurie Weiner
Laurie Weiner, a 62-year-old from North Canton, Ohio, has been passionate about running since participating in her first Half Marathon in 2010. Over the years, she has completed 165 Half Marathons and 21 Marathons/50K races, utilizing Jeff Galloway’s Run, Walk, Run method. After a total knee replacement in September 2024, she resumed racing in May 2025. Her favorite events include Disneyland Paris and the Chicago Marathon. Laurie encourages all runners, especially those in the middle and back of the pack, to keep pushing forward and enjoy the journey.