Medal Monday highlights recent achievements from members of the Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics. Notable successes include Lisa Rice Seidel reaching Sun Status for the twelfth time and completing her 700th half marathon, while Jennifer Durenberger achieved the same status for the second time. Sivabalan Pandian completed the Dusk to Dawn Ultra 50K, marking his 1007th ultra marathon. Other members celebrated various milestones, races, and personal achievements, emphasizing community and encouragement within the running family.
Tag Archives: race report
Earning Her 12th Sun Status: Lisa Rice Seidel
Lisa Rice Seidel has achieved Sun Status for the 12th time at the Mainly Marathons Riverboat Series, held on April 14, 2026. To attain this recognition with the Half Fanatics, runners must either complete 52 half marathons within a year or finish 30 half marathons across different locations within that same timeframe. Lisa is also approaching her 700th half marathon, with an impressive 210 of those completed in Washington. For more details on the criteria for Half Fanatics, visit their website.
DNF at Rattlesnake Dick 50k: Embracing the Struggle
Gysel Parajon shares her experience at the Rattlesnake Dick 50k trail race in Cool, CA. She aimed to push her limits beyond a marathon distance, attracting her to this local event with a generous 10-hour time limit. Although she started strong, the heat affected her pace, and fear of encountered rattlesnakes led her to slow down. Ultimately, she missed the first cutoff by four minutes. Despite not finishing, Gysel enjoyed meeting fellow runners and volunteers, and plans to return next year.
What We Do for a Country – Vatican Express Marathon Story
Alexis Davidson participated in the Vatican Express Marathon, walking in chilly conditions between 43-62F. Starting at St. George Square, the course included 13 loops along the Tiber River, totaling 423 ft elevation gain. Despite feeling under the weather and fatigued from the previous day, Alexis aimed for a time under 6:30. Struggling by the seventh loop, she pushed through, finishing 15th out of 18 participants. Acknowledgment was given to fellow participant Alexandra Molina for her support.
When Enough Is Enough… And Then You Keep Going – Pistol 100 Reflections
Luther Hill reflects on his arduous journey preparing for the Pistol Ultra 100-miler, a six-month training regimen that tested his limits through all four seasons. He highlights the importance of individual pacing in ultra-distance running and shares insights into the mental and physical challenges faced during the race, particularly during the second half. Supported by his partner, Janie Grace, and inspired by messages from loved ones, Luther ultimately finds fulfillment and joy in completing this grueling endurance event, marking it as his hardest achievement yet.
Meet Merry Mullins, MM 15936
Merry Mullins shares her journey of turning grief into strength by starting to run marathons at 48 after the death of her mother. Despite lacking proper training or equipment, she completed her first marathon to cope with her loss and began a quest to run in all 50 states. Over 32 months, she faced various challenges but learned that persistence and the will to continue were key. Her experiences taught her that it’s never too late to start, emphasizing that every step counts, regardless of the pace.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 4
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. 2026 National Meet-Up at the OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon National Meet Up Schedule – Capital City Half Marathon Weekend (Race onContinue reading “Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 4”
Cowtown Challenge Conquered
Gregory Rouson recently completed his 260th lifetime half marathon at the Cowtown Challenge, which included a 10K and a half marathon. Expressing his excitement, he noted the impressive hills and finisher medals in Texas. Rouson had long wanted to participate in this event due to the city’s rich history, particularly the Stock Yards, and he was pleased with the experience. He thanked his fellow Black Sheep Runners, Cheryl and Derek, for their companionship throughout the weekend.
Myrtle Beach Marathon Walk: Heat Beaten, Friends Greeted!
Alexis Davidson participated in the Myrtle Beach Marathon, experiencing humid weather with temperatures between 61-75F. The mostly flat course had heavy traffic and required significant police presence. Davidson improved from last week’s performance, finishing with splits of 2:41 and 5:39, and noted the irony of wearing a long-sleeve race shirt in the heat.
Combos Half Marathon Reunion: Running Friends Unite!
Tricia Davis and Aubrey Davis celebrated a successful race during the Combos Half Marathon in Albany, GA, marking their participation in the event as a highlight for #MedalMonday. They expressed pride in their journey to complete a half marathon in every U.S. state, emphasizing the joy of meeting fellow runners like Bob and Lesley Strauss, Bev Lyerly Latvala, and Tahira Bland, whom they encountered during previous races. Their involvement in running communities has enriched their experiences and fostered valuable friendships.