Maricris Lu reflects on her role as a race ambassador for the Ventura Marathon & Half since 2016, where she has participated in various race formats with her kids. She has paced the race for four consecutive years, expressing gratitude for the experience, her co-pacer, and the enjoyable finish line treats.
Tag Archives: Running community
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 3
Medal Monday showcases recent accomplishments from members of the Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics, highlighting various personal stories and achievements. Key features include details on the upcoming National Meet-Up at the 2026 Capital City Half Marathon, scheduled events, and recent race experiences shared by members. Notable mentions include runners completing significant milestones, such as Barbara Rausch’s 300th half marathon and individuals providing insights into race conditions and camaraderie. The community celebrates their shared passion for running and personal growth.
Cowtown Marathon 2026 Race Report – Back-of-the-Pack Edition
Brian Johnson participated in the Cowtown Marathon in Fort Worth, Texas, marking his 64th marathon and 33rd state. He enjoyed the generous 7.5-hour cutoff as a back-of-the-pack runner. Arriving in Dallas, he experienced the expo and the vibrant atmosphere of race day, featuring entertaining sights and a commemorative mile for fallen service members. However, a wrong turn at mile 23 cost him 10 minutes, creating frustration. Despite this, he finished strong and appreciated the unique cowboy hat-shaped medal. He encourages others to try this Texas race.
Run Family at the Little Rock Marathon
Before the start of races, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic running family aims to take a ‘Family Photo.’ They recently captured a group shot ahead of the Little Rock Marathon/Half Marathon held in Little Rock, Arkansas, on March 1, 2026. This tradition highlights their camaraderie as they participate in events across the nation, showcasing their unity and enthusiasm for running. The photo and post are credited to Christabelle Sapphire Carpenter.
Run Family at the Mississippi River Marathon
Before the race begins, the Marathon Maniac and Half Fanatic community frequently captures a ‘Family Photo.’ Just ahead of the Mississippi River Marathon in Greenville, Mississippi, on February 7, 2026, this enthusiastic running family assembled for a quick group shot. The joyful moment highlights their camaraderie and dedication to running, showcasing the spirit of the community during events across the nation. The photo was credited to Sadie Smith, reflecting a memorable experience for participants.
Celebrating the Completion of Two 50 States Marathon Journeys
Congratulations to Olivia Medina for achieving her 50 State Finish. Kudos also to Cade Remsburg, who completed his 50 States six times, finishing with only three races not under four hours. Cade completed his sixth round at the Louisiana Marathon in January. Photo credit goes to Denis McCarthy and the 50 States Marathon Club.
300th Half Complete at Brazen Racing’s Bay Breeze Half
Barbara Rausch celebrated her remarkable achievement of completing her 300th half marathon at Brazen Racing’s Bay Breeze, nearly ten years after her first race there. Initially aiming just to finish, she later joined Brazen’s Ultra Half Series and became a member of Half Fanatics, reaching several milestones along the way. The support and friendships she found through running transformed her life, particularly following a life-saving gastric bypass in 2010, which helped her maintain weight loss. Rausch emphasizes the importance of health and movement for everyone.
Happy Half Fanatics Anniversary Sina!
Sina Sco (HF15870) celebrates her anniversary as a Half Fanatic, which began during Super Bowl Weekend 2017. That year, she completed the Rock & Roll New Orleans marathon and qualified for Neptune status in Miami before achieving Mars status. Additionally, she reflects on her weight loss journey, which started after relocating to Texas. She emphasizes her commitment to fitness since that pivotal moment. Sina shares a recent photo from the Hot Chocolate 10K and mentions plans to run the Mesa Half Marathon soon.
Dam-to-Bridge Domination: Redding Marathon Feels Right
Gysel Parajon reflects on running the Redding Marathon after missing it the previous year due to an injury. Excited to finally tackle the course, she felt energized and elated while running alongside other participants. Despite experiencing discomfort in her glutes and hamstrings around mile 15, she realized her improvement in running as walking caused more pain. Gysel expresses gratitude for her family, friends, fellow runners, and race organizers for their support. She looks ahead to her next marathon in Northern Florida.
From Pheidippides to Party Miles: A Louisiana Marathon Recap
Christopher Riff Browning(MM16116)- 26 was for a Greek messenger named Pheidippides. This was number 26, in the year 26 and the distance of 26.2. He is the whole reason that the marathon was created. He ran to Athens without stopping to deliver the message of victory before collapsing and dying. During the first couple marathonsContinue reading “From Pheidippides to Party Miles: A Louisiana Marathon Recap”