Lea Reyes, originally uninterested in running, transformed her life through training for half and full marathons after escaping a traumatic marriage. Running has become her passion, helping her conquer depression, connect with a supportive community, and achieve personal growth. Now at 51, she aims to complete races worldwide and cherishes each moment.
Tag Archives: marathon maniacs
Meet Half Fanatic 18919 Aman Jindal
Aman Jindal, a Yale MBA student, recounts his unexpected fitness journey starting from a simple gym visit in October 2024. Progressing from walking to running, he pushes himself to complete multiple half-marathons by May 2025. Each race teaches him about physical limits and personal growth as he prepares for upcoming challenges amidst career changes.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 4 Chapter 10
Medal Monday highlights notable achievements from members of Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics. Runners share experiences from completing various races, including half marathons, 50Ks, and marathons across different states. They reflect on personal growth, challenges faced, and the support of the running community, motivating others on their journeys.
Running Family Photos: Fanatic/Maniac Photos in Texas, Alaska and West Virginia
The Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running families frequently capture ‘Family Photos’ before races. They took group shots at three events: the Hatfield McCoy Marathon/Blackberry Mountain Half Marathon in Williamson, WV on June 14, 2025, the SARR Texas Sun Showdown in San Antonio, TX on June 15, 2025, and the Mayor’s Marathon and Half in Anchorage, AK on June 21, 2025.
Featured Runner: Sandy Straley -MM7675
Sandy Straley began running at 25 to improve her fitness, joining the Larchmont Track Club. She has participated in various races, including marathons and themed runs, often alongside family and friends. With a passion for community, she has raised funds for veterans’ families and completed notable races like the Boston and Berlin Marathons.
Conquering Malibu Canyon’s 50K Challenge
Lea Reyes recounts her experience running her first 50K at Malibu Canyon trails. Despite training and preparation, she underestimated the challenging climbs. Along the way, she assisted an injured runner and enjoyed supportive aid stations. Finishing in 8:18, she felt elated and plans to continue her running adventures in nature.
Benalmadena Blitz: 10 Marathons, 10 Days, One Goal
Sivabalan Pandian completed an impressive feat of running 10 full marathons in 10 consecutive days from May 23 to June 1, 2025, in Benalmádena, Spain. Despite a prior injury, he maintained consistent finish times and enjoyed the experience with fellow runners, achieving a total of 915 marathons completed.
An Ultra Adventure: Conquering a 50-Miler and Supporting a 100-Mile Finish
Gysel Parajon recounts her experience running a 50-mile race in Cool, CA, after recently finishing a marathon. Despite back pain and digestive issues, she enjoyed the well-marked course and camaraderie with fellow runners and volunteers. Pacing with a new friend helped her complete the race, after which she supported her partner in his 100-mile run.
Reaching An Epic Milestone: 700th Marathon and 9th 50 State Finish
Clyde Shank (MM1383) celebrated completing his 700th full marathon and achieving his 9th round of finishing marathons in all 50 states. He completed the MainlyMarathons New England Series, running 11 marathons in 11 days. The final course featured asphalt with rolling hills, experiencing mid-50s temperatures and light rain along the way.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 4 Chapter 9
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. Featured Runner: Sandy Straley(MM7675)– I started running when I was 25 because I wanted to get in better shape. Luckily, myContinue reading “Tales From Medal Monday Volume 4 Chapter 9”