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3 Marathons in 90 Days to Qualify!
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Meet Nikki Carden:

I started running for two reasons: to lose weight and to keep up with my husband, Travis, who had already fallen in love with the sport. At first, it was tough—finding the time, building the discipline, and believing I could actually enjoy it. But something shifted after my first 5K in Fargo. I felt a spark. That finish line lit a fire in me I didn’t know I had.

Since then, running has become more than just a way to stay in shape—it’s become a part of who I am. I’ve now completed races of all distances, from local 10Ks to an unforgettable 50-mile ultramarathon. Each one has tested me in new ways, physically and mentally. But nothing compares to the everyday challenge of being a mom of two and still finding time to train. Early mornings, squeezing in runs after bedtime, or lacing up right after I drop the kids off at practice—I've learned to fit training into the cracks of a busy life.

Through all the miles, what keeps me going is the idea that my kids are watching. I want them to see that setting big goals and chasing them—even when it’s hard—is worth it.

Now, I’m chasing my biggest goal yet: qualifying for the Boston Marathon. I’ll be toeing the line at the St. George Marathon this October, hoping my training, grit, and years of running experience will come together on race day.

Running has changed my body, my mindset, and my confidence. It started as a way to lose weight, but it’s given me strength I never expected. And with every mile, I’m not just running toward the finish line—I’m running toward the best version of myself. 
#marathonmaniacs by @marathonmaniacs
3
a year ago
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San Jose RNR Half with her, and I laughed, considering I was never a runner or thought about becoming one. I believe my exact words were, “Girl, I don’t run!” She knew I was going through a traumatic domestic violence marriage and was planning to escape my nightmare of a relationship. I was drowning myself in alcoholic happy hours, day and night, battling a silent depression.

I was up for the challenge, considering athleticism had always been a part of my life—but I knew I had to stop drinking. How hard could this be? So I thought. We trained for two months, and I thought to myself, This sucks. Never again. It wasn’t until I got through the sweat, the sickness of barfing along the way, the tears, and crossing the finish line that I found my calling to help me through my troubles.

I was sore for two weeks and could barely walk. From then on, daily running became a part of my life. I ran one or two half and full marathons a year, but it wasn’t until the 2017 SF Marathon, when I saw a woman wearing a pink Marathon Maniacs jacket that reminded me of the movie Grease and the Pink Ladies, that I had to have it. I submitted my races and became a Maniac, Fanatic, and Double Agent.

I continued to sign up for half and full marathons year-round. It’s what I look forward to every weekend—to keep me grounded, healthy, strong, and smiling. I am grateful for the running community—the Maniacs, ABWR, and the friends I have made along the way who keep me going. I’m the happiest and strongest I’ve ever been because of running.

The travel, the beauty of different cities, the running stories of others, being out in nature, and the friends I see for 26 miles or more while on my feet—it’s the best. The accomplishment of crossing the finish line, with sheds of tears before, during, and after the race, is worth it. Because in the end, I smile and look forward to the next one.

Continued in comments >> by @marathonmaniacs
1
a year ago
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Sadie Smith does it again and again! Congratulations, Sadie! 🎉
#marathonmaniacs #runrevel by @marathonmaniacs
1
a year ago
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RELEASED TODAY!

100 runs of a lifetime ~ Bart Yasso

Runners of all skill levels—even those going from couch to 5k—will find something unforgettable among these 100 runs and races, including all six of the iconic World Marathon Majors to courses that traverse Hawaii, Iceland, and Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast. by @marathonmaniacs
4
2 years ago
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Baker to Vegas Realy Team, at Mt. Charleston Marathon!
#marathonmaniacs #halffanatics #mtcharlestonmarathon stonmarathon #runrevel by @marathonmaniacs
3
2 years ago
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Featured Member, Karen Murray: My marathon journey began somewhat accidentally. Although I originally aimed for the NYC Marathon in 2013 through the local 9+1 program, life had other plans. In 2012, while training for my first half marathon, I connected with the NewRo run group in NY. Their enthusiasm and camaraderie were infectious, and soon, I found myself agreeing to join them for the Wineglass Marathon—even though I wasn’t fully prepared for a full marathon at that time. It was a group of 14 of us, a mixture of nerves and excitement, heading up together in a van. Post-race, as I limped around in agony, I swore off marathons forever. However, just two weeks later, that pain turned into a distant memory and I was signing up for the Philadelphia Marathon - "Never say, "Never." LOL! 
It was around this time I met Julia Garling, who introduced me to the enthralling world of the 50 State Club and Marathon Maniacs. Inspired, I made my "maniac" debut running Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia 2013- 3 in 90 days. Julia, not just content to be a running buddy, also asked me to be her 'running bridesmaid' at her wedding in Maui in January. This led to more races together, including Run for Donna in Jacksonville and Shamrock Marathon. In 2014, I attended my first 50 State reunion and was utterly amazed by the marathon tallies of fellow attendees. With 7 states under my belt and the clock ticking towards my 50th birthday, I set a lofty goal: finish a marathon in all 50 states in just three years while raising 3 kids and a full time job. Spoiler alert—I did it!
2014 was a banner year beyond just the races. At the Rehoboth Marathon, our group, self-dubbed "Team Fireball," celebrated at the afterparty in true fiery spirit. There, fate stepped in when I met Glen Anderson. While we didn’t start dating until 2018, our paths were clearly meant to intertwine. We got married on the whimsically perfect date of 11/11/2020 at 11:11 a.m. Since tying the knot, we’ve continued our marathon journey together, hitting titanium each year throughout the pandemic -- 5 years now. 
Continued in comments >>
#marathonmaniacs #halffanatics by @marathonmaniacs
4
2 years ago
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Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend! Credit Gregory Ruson 
#marathonmaniacs #halffanatics by @marathonmaniacs
4
2 years ago
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I so LOVE smiling while running. It's so therapeutic to just RUN..... ~ Milissa Thigpen
#marathonmaniacs ##halffanatics #doubleagent by @marathonmaniacs
1
2 years ago
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Featured Member Lawrence Allie Maniac 16034: I was never really athletic growing up. On the morning of September 11th, I was working downtown Manhattan when chaos erupted. I eventually left the area and tried to get home to Queens. With traffic halted and trains down, I walked toward the bridge. A crowd of us were walking up the bridge when a loud bang sent people running. I panicked too but couldn’t run far—I was struggling to breathe. Thankfully, nothing came of the noise, and I eventually made it home.

A few weeks later, I saw a doctor to figure out why I tired so quickly. After several tests, he told me I was obese and out of shape. He recommended a gym, but I found it boring. Then I discovered walking, jogging, and running. I enjoyed being outdoors, so I set a goal—run a marathon. I chose Chicago on October 13, 2002. As part of my training plan, I did local 5Ks, 10Ks, and the Quebec Half Marathon. After finishing Chicago, I was hooked. The next year, I ran New York.

One day, I read an article in Runner’s World about marathons around the world. I loved the idea of traveling for races. The medal became more than a finisher’s prize—it became a unique souvenir reminding me of the spectators, the town, and my adventure. So far, I’ve completed 77 in-person marathons, each in a different place. I still can’t pick a favorite—each has something special. I may be a back-of-the-pack all-day-long marathoner, but I enjoy every minute of these events.

During COVID, I ran eight virtual marathons, making them fun with interesting local routes. Beyond marathons, I enjoy century bike rides, triathlons, hiking, and long walks. I also give back to the running community by volunteering at races. You’ll see me at the NY Marathon, half marathons, bike tours, triathlons, Spartan races, and more in the NYC area. Volunteering is its own workout—I’m out there from start to finish.

One weekend, I ran the Hartford Marathon on Saturday, then drove home to Queens for pasta and sleep before waking up early to drive to the Atlantic City Marathon on Sunday. Those were the races I used to join Marathon Maniacs in 2023. Continued in comments >>> #marathonmaniacs #halffanatics by @marathonmaniacs
1
2 years ago
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Hi Marathon Maniacs,
My name is Olivia Medina, and I’m thrilled to be part of this amazing community of passionate 
runners. I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and share a bit about my running 
journey, experiences, and goals.
Name: Olivia Medina
Age: 42
Location: North Central Florida
Running Experience:
I’ve been running since high school, where I competed in cross-country. After graduating, I 
took a three-year hiatus from running until I stumbled upon a DVD at the public library by 
Dean Karnazes, 50 Marathons in 50 States in 50 Days. It was the spark that reignited my 
love for running and pushed me to overcome my sedentary lifestyle. I trained for my first 
marathon, and I haven’t looked back since. During the COVID era, I faced a major health
setback as I became ill and was advised to stop running. Unfortunately, I had to give up a 
daily running streak I’d been maintaining. However, after a period of recovery, I’m back on 
track, focusing on my ultimate goal: completing a marathon in each of the 50 states. My 
current pace is well over 10 minutes per mile, and I typically run only about 6 miles per week
- though I’m working on upping my training. My current marathon total is 53 which includes 
2 Ultras and have achieved the Iridium level. 
Goals:
I’m hoping to complete my first round of the 50 States this May in Lincoln, Nebraska. With 
only six marathons left on my list, the Hyannis Marathon is up next weekend! After finishing 
the 50 States, I plan to shift my focus from quantity to quality and set my sights on 
attempting to qualify for the Boston Marathon.
Fun Fact:
I was once a member of the United States Running Streak Association and had a running 
streak that lasted just over six years. I absolutely love meeting fellow Maniacs and hearing 
the inspiring stories behind their running journeys. I’m continually in awe of the “elite
maniacs” I’ve met who have completed hundreds of marathons—it’s truly motivating to hear 
their experiences.
I’m excited to connect with everyone here and hopefully, meet some of you at the upcoming
marathons. Catch you on the trails! #marathonmaniacs #halffanatics by @marathonmaniacs
1
2 years ago
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Meet Featured Member Jose Eduardo Garcia Maniac 9662. What a spectacular year! 2024 reserved some surprises, some positive, others not so. There were 15 marathons, fewer than the 22 in 2023, but with several unforgettable moments.
 
Among the main races, I had planned to run one that was on my bucket list: the Great Wall Marathon. It was an experience I had been trying to make possible for several years. However, about 2 months before, I had a stress fracture during a marathon in southern Brazil, which made me stop until the trip to China. I had to cancel two races in that period to focus on recovery and at least arrive clinically recovered. It worked out, and I completed the race, despite being completely unprepared to perform well. This day became even more special as, during much of the course, I had the support of a friend who later became my girlfriend and future wife.
Continued in comments >>
#marathonmaniacs #halffanatics by @marathonmaniacs
5
2 years ago
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Featured Club Member 16,080: Katie Jung White!
In 2004, something I never expected in my life happened: I moved to America. There were only a handful of things I knew about the United States of America–North Carolina was not one of them. 

I want to give you a quick rundown of how my life was in Korea. I was an emotional child. I lived in Korea for about 15 years and was bullied for a half of those years but despite the fact that I was disliked for so long, leaving where I was born was not something I imagined myself. 

Luckily, getting used to this country for me was not a hard thing. I was able to learn both language and culture very quickly; on top of that, I learned how to “swing” things around. Whenever I was put on the spot but did not know what to exactly say back, I knew how to get out of that situation.

“Haters, you made me strong. I thank you for that,” I said it over and over again for my entire life.

Surprisingly, I get along very well with some of those haters; however, when I first began running back in 2022, they were haunting me. It felt like they were in my head with a 6-pack of cans of beer while watching a Netflix TV show. I was the star of that show, and the title was, “We Could Still Make Fun of You.”

People often say that the first season of any TV show is the best one to watch but I wanted to make sure that was not the case, so I pushed myself–I pushed myself to run longer and longer each week which led to my first marathon. I chose this race because due to a personal issue, my first marathon had to be a local one. Until I ran this race, Raleigh seemed so small but it felt much bigger and more interesting during my first race. It took me over 6 hours to finish, and I was injured during the race but the fact that I, somehow, finished a full-distance marathon gave me hope that I can rewrite the show in my head.

Continued in comments >>
#marathonmaniacs #halffanatics by @marathonmaniacs
1
2 years ago
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