This 2025 volume highlights the motivational achievements and experiences of Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics members. Through various chapters, it showcases their dedication, community spirit, and the enjoyment found in running, celebrating both significant successes and smaller victories. Each story reflects the essence of perseverance and camaraderie among runners.
Tag Archives: Women Runners
Redemption on the Trails: Conquering Mammoth Trailfest 50k
Gysel Parajon reflects on her experience completing the Mammoth Trailfest 50k after a previous DNF. Despite menstrual cramps and shoe chafing, she met all cutoffs and felt emotional reaching the finish line. Grateful for support from friends and volunteers, she looks forward to improving her time in future races.
Meet Lea Reyes
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.
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.
Featured Club Member: Brenda Folkerts
Brenda Folkerts, a 57-year-old former RN from Victoria, B.C., is a dedicated runner and personal trainer who overcame multiple autoimmune diseases. Emphasizing her “UNSTOPPABLE” mindset, she enjoys pacing races and plans to celebrate her 100th half marathon in 2025. Currently, she trains for a 100K race on her birthday.
Faith, Fight, and Finish: Natalie Uyeno’s Ultramarathon #3 Journey
Natalie Uyeno completed her third lifetime ultramarathon, a challenging 32.5 miles at the Silver Moon race, despite undergoing chemotherapy for metastatic breast cancer. Struggling with blisters and physical pain, she persevered, finishing just under the time limit. Grateful for support from friends and prayers, she celebrated her achievement with tears of joy.
From Iridium to Ruthenium: Olivia Medina’s 13-State Marathon Triumph
Olivia Medina (MM7842) has achieved the Ruthenium Maniac Level by completing 13 marathons in 13 states within a year. Upon logging into her Maniac profile, she recognized her advancement from 4-Star Iridium to 5-Star Ruthenium Maniac. Congratulations to Olivia for this impressive accomplishment!
Featured Club Member: Brenda Duckwall
Brenda Duckwall from Collinsville, OK, is an avid runner balancing work, family, and cattle care. She began running in 2011, participating in various half marathons, including the Route 66. Brenda aims to complete half marathons in all 50 states by her 50th birthday, with 25 completed so far.