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: travel running
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.
Red-Eye to the Start Line: A Cape Cod Half Adventure
Tonisia Billups shared her experiences from the Cape Cod Half Marathon weekend, detailing her travel logistics amidst work commitments. She flew into Providence, Rhode Island, rented a car from Hertz after a delayed flight, and drove to Massachusetts for the Saturday race. Despite logistical challenges, she enjoyed the scenic coastal course, though it was open to traffic. After the race, she celebrated with clam chowder and an impromptu trip to Martha’s Vineyard, marking state #48. The overall experience was a mix of excitement and high-stress travel.
Coastal Finish & State #49 at the Amica Newport Half
Tonisia Billups recounted her experience of racing at the Amica Newport Half Marathon after a hectic travel weekend. Squeezing in events around work, she flew into Rhode Island, raced in Massachusetts, and returned to Newport, tackling an uphill start that challenged her. Despite the logistical hurdles and an irritating runner who kept cutting her off, she ultimately found her rhythm. After finishing, she enjoyed stunning beach views and celebrated with a colleague who surprised her with a treat, marking her 49th state completed in races.
Tales From Medal Monday Volume 5 Chapter 5
Medal Monday highlights recent achievement stories from Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics members, showcasing their personal experiences during various races. Alexis Davidson tackled the Vatican Express Marathon despite challenging conditions, while Sue Stevens enjoyed a scenic half marathon after recent weather setbacks. Notable finishes included Jennifer Clark in the Zydeco Marathon, Gysel Parajon in the Rattlesnake Dick 50k, and several others at iconic events like the NYC Half Marathon and races in Rome. Each member expressed enthusiasm and camaraderie in their running journeys.
Meet Club Member: Randall Hansen
Randell Hansen began running in 2004, progressing from 5Ks to completing a marathon in all 50 states by October 2022. As a member of the Marathon Maniacs, he has achieved multiple statuses and participated in prestigious marathons, including Boston and Berlin. Despite life’s changes, he remains committed to running and connecting with friends.
Running the Pro Football Hall of Fame Half Marathon
Charlene Board recounts her quick trip to Canton, Ohio, for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Half Marathon. After an early wake-up and a charging mishap with her rental car, she ran the race at a steady pace, earning two medals. The trip included a visit to the Hall of Fame Museum before returning home.
Running the World: One Finish Line at a Time
Patty Bishop, an avid runner, shares her journey of running over 235 races across various terrains and continents. For her, running transcends competition; it fosters connections, resilience, and life lessons. Each race embodies adventure and personal growth, emphasizing that the essence of running lies in the journey and the community built along the way.
Meet Club Member: Tina from Alaska
Tina “Luvs-Torun” Lam (HF16109, MM15672, DA3665) from Anchorage, AKI was never a runner. I remember running in 5th grade and in junior high, doing a few cross country races, but I finished in last place. Running was not fun. A college friend was running the 50 states, which I thought was crazy and another friend startedContinue reading “Meet Club Member: Tina from Alaska”
A Review of the San Francisco City Half
Amy Sea completed the San Francisco Half Marathon, opting for the city route due to a late start and desire for a relaxed pace. Despite high costs at around $200, she enjoyed the experience, noting scenic views, although some production issues occurred. She suggests other, less expensive races in California are equally worthwhile.