Presenting the Elite Runners of the Detroit Free Press Marathon 2024!
The Detroit Free Press Marathon, presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, is thrilled to unveil its prestigious Elite Field for 2024. As part of our enduring commitment to elevate the race’s prominence and foster a culture of excellence in distance running, we are honored to welcome an exceptional cohort of elite athletes from across Metro Detroit, Michigan, Canada, and the United States.
Men’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Online Running Coach & Personal Trainer
Instagram: @Andyb_xc3
Personal best time: 2:15:52
Career highlights: 2024 Pittsburgh Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: “Everyone wants to be a beast until it’s time to do what beasts do” -Eric Thomas
Fun fact(s) about you: Believe it or not I met my wife at a race and it was love at first sight.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love Detroit, I love the community of runners we have here and I love this race. It’s a great experience that is literally in my backyard that there’s no way I could pass up on the opportunity to race the marathon.
Profession: Online Running Coach / Personal Trainer
Instagram: @iancarter94
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:16:20
Career highlights: Indy Marathon Champion 2021.
Favorite quote: “Whatever you do, always give 100%. Unless you’re donating blood.” -Bill Murray
Fun fact(s) about you: Ran Track and Cross Country at The University of Mississippi. The quickest way to my heart is a cold PBR. As well as coaching online for McKirdy Trained I also help coach alongside Ryan Hall for a professional group in Flagstaff.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It seems like a fun race and a great opportunity to be a part of. I would also like to see my name alongside with the new course record.
Profession: Sales Engineer at Cognex
Instagram: @noahssteffen
Personal best time: 2:16:59 Marathon at Bayshore Marathon
Career highlights: Running in the 2024 US Olympic Trials Marathon
Favorite quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a twin sister
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love being able to race in Michigan while still having a very competitive elite field. Having an elite field full of Michigan residents will be a fantastic way to showcase the large amount of talent we have in the mitten.
Profession: Financial Analyst, Graduate Student
Instagram: @Trumanzac
Personal best time: 1:05:38 (Half-marathon)
Career highlights: NCAA D2 All-American
Favorite quote: “Prepare with humility, compete with confidence.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a huge Pistons fan.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted my first marathon to be in the best city in the world.
Profession: Software Engineer
Instagram: @Run_Lynx
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:19:53, Half Marathon 1:05:50
Career highlights: Back to back 2:22 marathons three weeks apart.
Favorite quote: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi
Fun fact(s) about you: I love art and music. It’s very rare for me to go a day without dancing. I also love cooking.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was born and raised in Detroit. My family still lives there and with the belief that I will one day leave Michigan, I would love to give it my all in a place filled with family and friends.
Profession: Director of Internal Sales & Operations, Alma Tire Companies
Instagram: @jrussellconn
Personal best time: 2:20:16
Career highlights: Racing in the elite field as a master at the 2024 Boston Marathon and finishing 30th overall.
Favorite quote: The one with a fair price and best service.
Fun fact(s) about you: I have never had a cavity.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Wanted to run close to home.
Profession: Patent Attorney
Instagram: @mpellenberger
@chicagoroadtrailrunner
Personal best time: 2:21:19, 67:43
Career highlights: 52nd overall, 2022 Chicago Marathon; 2nd overall, 2021 Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon; 1st overall, 2024 Western Springs Tower Trot (Double)
Favorite quote: “Underpromise, overdeliver”
Fun fact(s) about you: We have a dog, Waffles, who looks like a big corgi (but is not!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: Fast times and cool weather!
Profession: Work at a Corporate Advising Firm
Instagram: @james_gedris
Personal best time: 4:13 road mile, 14:11 5000m, 1:07:47 Half Marathon
Career highlights: Was the first Michigan high schooler to run under 15 minutes in an indoor 5000. I won the 2024 Rock CF Half Marathon.
Favorite quote: “Go to sleep!” -Mike Smith
Fun fact(s) about you: I was once bitten by a camel.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Running over the bridge and through the tunnel makes Detroit an extremely unique course.
Profession: Advertising
Instagram: @xcmora18
Personal best time: 2:22:03 Full, 1:09:01 Half
Career highlights: 3:59 Mile – pre super shoes ;)
Favorite quote: “It’s very important – no matter what you may do professionally – to keep alive the healthy interests of your youth. Children’s play is not just kids’ stuff. Children’s play is rather the stuff of most future inventions.” -Fred Rogers
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a cat named Archie who was born without a tail
Why are you racing Detroit?: My younger brother convinced me to sign up with him and I wanted the experience of a “smaller” marathon as this will be my first non-world major.
Profession: Product line management for HOKA
Instagram: @Oohsnapbee
Personal best time: 2:18:13 / 1:04:33 / 13:55
Career highlights: This one
Favorite quote: “Wrecked em’? Damn near killed em!”
Fun fact(s) about you: I can beatbox
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because I’m a trend setter
Profession: Staff Accountant & Sport Performance Trainer
Instagram: @The_Matt_25
Personal best time: Marathon : 2:22.30 Half Marathon: 1:10
Career highlights: 2024 Eugene Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: “Your life is too valuable, your calling too great, & your God too awesome to waste your life on what doesn’t matter.” -Craig Groeschel
Fun fact(s) about you: I have two dogs. A Golden doodle name Sandi & a Maltipoo named Sully. I ran for the University of the Incarnate Word.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m incredibly excited to be part of this elite field at the Detroit Marathon. I look forward to being in a new city and new experiences to come.
Profession: Pizza Expert
Instagram: @mkatsefaras
Personal best time: Marathon 2:23:15, 50K 2:55:47
Career highlights: Running with team USA in India at the 2023 50K World Championships. Placing 3rd at the 2023 National Championships, in NY. Being a part of the lowest team score (27pts) in Michigan D1 High School Cross Country, in 2006, at Pinckney High School.
Favorite quote: “Its better to do something wrong than to do nothing at all.” -Grandpa Joe
Fun fact(s) about you: My wife and I are expecting our first baby shortly after race.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Its close to home in case I need to hurry back to catch the baby.
Profession: Software Engineer
Personal best time: 2:23:22
Career highlights: 2023 & 2024 Wisconsin Marathon winner (hometown race)
Favorite quote: Life is a journey, not a destination.
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run from Cerro de la Muerte to the Pacific in Costa Rica
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted to run a marathon where I could compete up front and also get an over due new PR. Detroit seemed like a great race for both!
Profession: Physical Therapist
Instagram: @lijdodhenll
Personal best time: 2:23:44 CIM 2023
Career highlights: Winning Hood to Coast 2022 with The Goodland team was unforgettable. One of the most fun races of my road running life was Grandma’s marathon 2023.
Favorite quote: Be nice, have fun
Fun fact(s) about you: I love baking bread. I started in college when a classmate brought in these amazing slices for lunch. He gave me starter and a lesson in fermentation and I’ve been making a loaf or three most weeks since then.
Why are you racing Detroit?: When I learned that Detroit was putting together a competitive elite field I thought I’d have more fun and get to race harder than at other fall marathons in the Midwest. I’m stoked to race my first Detroit Free Press Marathon!
Profession: English professor
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:24:09; half marathon: 1:10:00
Career highlights: Winning three consecutive Cowtown (Fort Worth) Marathons (2020, 2022, 2023) and the 2018 Seattle Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon; running 2:26 marathons on back-to-back weekends (2022 Hartford Marathon [4th] and Baystate Marathon [2nd])
Favorite quote: “What’s wrong with being unhappy? I’m unhappy most of my life.” –Tom Izzo on the transfer portal
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve moved seven times in the past three years. But I’m staying put now, even if the roof falls in.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I raced Detroit last year and loved it. And I get to sleep in my own bed the night before.
Profession: Automotive Design Engineering Senior Manager
Personal best time: 2:21:42 marathon, 14:22 5k
Career highlights: Winning Detroit marathon (2021, 2022), Glass City marathon (2021), Houston top masters (2024)
Favorite quote: Expect the unexpected
Fun fact(s) about you: My 1st marathon was Detroit when I was 16 years old!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hometown race, awesome race organization and course
Profession: I am a coach with Stridewise Running, and in addition to this I perform metabolic testing (VO2 max) at ProActive Fitness Analytics. On a day to day basis I also sell shoes at The Running Factory.
Instagram: @josh_z55
Personal best time: 2:24 Marathon (debut), 1:07 Half Marathon
Career highlights: Making team Canada with two of my friends and teammates while at the University of Windsor
Favorite quote: “Athletics is not so much about the legs. It’s about the heart and the mind.” – Eliud Kipchoge
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m the assistant coach of the University of Windsor Men’s and Women’s Cross Country teams
Why are you racing Detroit?: I loved doing the Detroit Half Marathon two years ago, and wanted to challenge myself with the full thing this time around, now that I have experience with it.
Profession: Physical Therapist
Instagram: @sykes_dylan
Personal best time: 2:25:31
Career highlights: 57th at Boston Marathon 2022, 1st at Grand Rapids Marathon 2021
Favorite quote: One must imagine Sisyphus happy
Fun fact(s) about you: I ran across Michigan in 70 hours, I will hopefully have Italian dual citizenship by race day, and my older brother Jordan will also be racing the marathon.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My parents and extended family are all from the Detroit area, and one of my brothers lives there currently. I’ve always loved the city, and am excited to be back there racing against an exceptional field.
Women’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Running coach
Instagram: @sydneytdevore
Personal best time: 2:31:07, 1:12:11
Career highlights: Winning the Pittsburgh Marathon in 2018 (2:32), 16th at the 2018 NYC Marathon (2:32), 22nd at the Boston Marathon 2:31:08, Finishing in the top 10 at the USA 15k championships and 10 mile championships. Qualifying for 2 Olympic Trials 2020 & 2024
Favorite quote: “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I used to teach 3rd and 4th Grade. I ran for the University of Florida. I lived and taught English in Busan, South Korea. I have two GSPs and it is my dream to compete on Chopped.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hometown GLORY! ;)
Profession: Teacher
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:34:09 Half Marathon: 1:14:02
Career highlights: 2024 Marathon OTQ
Favorite quote: “You are never too old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a teacher, love camping and hiking, and have been to every state in America!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have heard wonderful things about this marathon and I am very excited for the addition of the elite field!
Profession: Communications Director, Demand Progress
Instagram: @ms_langholz
Personal best time: 2:38:22, Grandma’s Marathon 2022
Career highlights: Running my personal best at Grandma’s Marathon was a blast. It’s near my hometown, I had my friend Colton running with me (it was an ~easy~ pace for him), and you can’t beat a fast course by Lake Superior.
Favorite quote: “If we don’t fight hard enough for the things we stand for, at some point we have to recognize we don’t really stand for them.” -Paul Wellstone
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a super cute pup named Fontina. She’s obviously named after a cheese because both my husband and I are from Wisconsin and are obsessed with cheese. I collect cookbooks and have over 150 of them.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m incredibly excited to be part of this new elite field at the Detroit Marathon. I absolutely adore the Midwest, and have enjoyed my visits to Detroit. I can’t wait to race in the cool fall weather and see what kind of time I can pull off.
Profession: Physician Assistant
Instagram: @katelandau
Personal best time: 2:31:56 (Boston 2019)
Career highlights: Boston 2019- 13th, NYC marathon 2019-15th, Olympic Trials 2020- 14th, Chicago 2018-8th
Favorite quote: Be the best you can be (Tri-Valley High School motto)
Fun fact(s) about you: Don’t want to get in trouble!!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I won Detroit in 2023 but did not race well and want to come back and race strong/plus a beautiful international marathon!!
Profession: Marine Corps Aviation Supply Officer
Instagram: @Christine4516
Personal best time: Marathon 2:43; Half 1:17
Career highlights: 3rd place at the 2022 Columbus Marathon and 47th at the 2023 Boston Marathon. Both were huge confidence boosts in my abilities and determination.
Favorite quote: “Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.” -Roy T. Bennett
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a huge Harry Potter fan. I listen to audiobooks once a year around Christmas season.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I found out that there was going to be a competitive field racing here and I wanted to be part of that! I am really excited to be included in this field and challenge myself without the pressure of a time standard.
Profession: Bartender
Instagram: @Runskinney85
Personal best time: 2:45:14
Career highlights: Top Ten Placement Bolder Boulder 10k, Competing in various USATF championship road races, Top 20 at Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 mile.
Favorite quote: You have a plan, until you get punched in the face.
Fun fact(s) about you: Closet pianist (Rachmaninoff and Chopin are my favorites), old video games collecter and my favorite drink to make is margaritas and old fashions.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m racing for my family heritage and because both my grandfathers were Detroit policemen and to be apart of a history and positive change for both the city and the race excites me.
Profession: Sr. Mgr. FEHS
Instagram: @cynthiaholderer
Personal best time: 2:46:28 full 1:19:46 half
Career highlights: Finished 57th at Berlin 2022
Favorite quote: Run Forrest run!
Fun fact(s) about you: I love training during the summer heat.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because I get to cross into Canada! I love unusual races.
Profession: Director of community development and engagement at Player2Player
Instagram: @hope.hill
Personal best time: 2:49, 1:19:33
Career highlights: Getting to run through both of my pregnancies and running Boston as a brand new marathoner-epic experience!
Favorite quote: Work hard and be nice to people.
Fun fact(s) about you: I have the coolest kids: Bowie & Margot. I started running after college to try something new- obviously fell in love. I’m living in Ireland this summer with my family!
Why are you racing Detroit?: To race with Elise Claffey Martins- the best training partner a girl could ask for!
Profession: Stay at home mom/ mental health therapist
Instagram: @Mariacicerolindberg
Personal best time: Marathon-2:49:48, half marathon- 1:19:44, 10k 33:52,5k- 16:13, 3k- 9:28
Career highlights: 4x all American at Boston College, inducted into the Boston College Hall of Fame, USA junior cross country champion and qualified to compete at world championships in Ireland, ACC 10k champion, 3x Illinois state champion record holder in 3200, Winner of Grand Rapids marathon, rock ‘n’ roll Arizona marathon and Bayshore marathon
Favorite quote: “The journey is the goal”
Fun fact(s) about you: Mom of 3, love yoga, vegetarian since high school
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love having a goal to work towards and running has always been my self care. My husband and I enjoys using marathons as a get away to see different pets of the country.
Profession: Financial Controller
Instagram: @mrissaw
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:50:38
Career highlights: Running my 5k and Marathon PRs on back to back days.
Favorite quote: “It’s not about the finish line, it’s about enjoying the process of getting there.”
Fun fact(s) about you: In high school I was a track runner, but did sprints. Despite my coach trying to convince me every year to run distance and join the XC team, I refused. A year after I graduated I realized I DID enjoy distance running and ended up running for two seasons at Cleveland State University as a walk on.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit in 2023 was the second marathon I ran after having my second baby. I loved the course (hello Canada) and the energy around the entire race. While I was proud of the time I accomplished at 13 months postpartum, I wanted to come back and see what was possible as I continued to work my way back post baby.
Profession: Retired General Motors Global Supply Chain Executive (2021); Current Owner of Classic Auto Management, a Used Vehicle Dealership
Instagram: @lisa.veneziano.8427
Personal best time: Marathon 2:50:44
Career highlights: USATF Masters Hall of Fame 2023; USATF Masters Long Distance Athlete of the Year 2021; 12K US National Record Holder 55-59 Age Group; 18 Boston Marathons including 5 age group awards (3x1st place 2022/23/24, 1x2nd place 2021, 1x3rd place 2016); Elite Boston Start in 2009; 5 Time Michigan Runner of the Year 2011-2015
Favorite quote: Dig deeper…No regrets when you cross that finish line! Lisa V
Fun fact(s) about you: I love a challenge and enjoy seeing what I can do at a myriad of distances. I compete all year long, doing indoor track and road races in the winter/spring, outdoor track and road races in the summer and road races in the fall. I do a wide range of distances – from the 800M to the Marathon, as well as duathlons and an occasional sprint triathlon (since I will drown if I do anything longer lol). I am in the mode of doing 3 marathons a year – 1 in Q1, Boston in April and 1 in Oct/Nov. I am very much looking forward to turning 60 in Sept and seeing what I can do across multiple distances/events in my new age group!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I LOVE running Detroit!!! It was my 1st marathon (1994) and I was the overall women’s winner in 2000, so it has a special meaning with me for sure. It is always very well organized and a great course – even more so now that there is no Belle Isle (thank you race directors!). There is something special about running a “local” marathon and I’m super proud to represent SE Michigan as part of the elite field!
Profession: Physical Therapist
Instagram: @chelsmariehall
Personal best time: 2:46:29
Career highlights: Running for the University of Kentucky and winning the 5k/10k double at SECs
Favorite quote: Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail.
Fun fact(s) about you: In addition to being a wife, mother, and PT, I love to make anything sourdough!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Being a mother has given me so much strength and I am learning to continue to chase goals with my family by my side. I hope to be a wholesome example for my two kids, Owen & Emersyn, on how to push through the hard times, learn from setbacks, and find the courage to chase their goals in whatever they choose in life.
Profession: Brand Manager
Instagram: @jabrill
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:56:56 | Half Marathon: 1:23:29 | 10K: 38:31 | 5K: 17:51
Career highlights: 2019 First Overall Female Champion Rock n Roll San Diego Marathon | 2017 First Overall Female Champion Star Wars Disneyland Half Marathon | 2024 World Marathon Majors Six-Star Finisher
Favorite quote: “All progress takes place outside the comfort zone.” + “You know you might surprise yourself” (lyrics from Jack Garratt song”
Fun fact(s) about you: I was on a reality tv gameshow and quit my job back in 2017 to become a Travel Youtuber. I like to think of myself as JV in the running world. Good but not great, and I’m okay with that. I like to leave room to surprise myself.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It feels like a sleeper race (as in hyper competitive) in a sleeper city. I’m a big fan of exploring cities I don’t know that well on foot by destination races. Now that the quest to get all 6 stars in the world marathon majors is complete, I’m on a mission to see how fast I can get before I throw the towel in from competitive racing. I’m also getting married in November so the timing of this race will help keep accountable and sane with wedding planning as I train.
Profession: Graduate Student (studying nutrition and dietetics)
Instagram: @ally_renee19
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:57:49, Half Marathon: 1:22:54
Career highlights: Running the Boston Marathon in the 50th anniversary year of women’s competition.
Favorite quote: Run with your heart.
Fun fact(s) about you: I have visited 12 U.S. national parks with the goal of visiting all 63 in my lifetime. It’s also on my bucket list to run in all 50 states.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was looking forward to racing a fall marathon, but wasn’t wanting to travel far. Having the opportunity to run with fast women right here in Michigan was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
Profession: Ford Bronco Engineer
Instagram: @Kayla.hughes
Personal best time: 2:57 M, 1:23 HM
Career highlights: Getting to run at Detroit Mercy in college
Favorite quote: Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right – Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a greyhound named S’mores
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have volunteered at Detroit many times and I ran it as my first marathon in 2021. I’ve been dying to do the bridge and tunnel for years. I love racing in this awesome city. Lots of great memories.
Profession: Regional Director of Operations & Occupational Therapist with FOX Rehabilitation
Instagram: @rosenoruna
Personal best time: 2:59:24 full marathon
Career highlights: Going sub-3 at The 2023 Grandma’s Marathon and qualifying there for Boston along with my husband. Moving to Grand Rapids in Fall ’23 and finding a huge running community of friends that support my training and goals. Being named the 2016-2017 Female Athlete of the Year at Concordia University Wisconsin.
Favorite quote: *You can either accept defeat or pursue victory” – Russell DeLap
Fun fact(s) about you: I Irish danced for 10 years of my childhood and I fully attribute my endurance foundation to it!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted a “new home state” course that was had a unique aspect to it, like crossing into Canada, where I could run with and be cheered on by my Society Track Club Teammates to achieve my goal of cutting down my marathon PR.
Profession: Nurse Practitioner
Instagram: @jesszang
Personal best time: Half Marathon 1:22, Full Marathon 3:07, 5k: 17:05
Career highlights: Competing for 4 years at Indiana State University with amazing teammates and my fantastic coach, Coach John Gartland and racing the Boston Marathon!
Favorite quote: Carpe Diem – Seize the day
Fun fact(s) about you: My first true love is skiing and I love to travel to new places around the world to explore their skiing terrain. There were a few times in high school that I didn’t tell my coaches what I was doing on spring break (skiing!) because they didn’t want me to get injured. Ironically, I’ve had more running related injuries and zero ski related injuries! I’m also an avid baker and love giving away loaves of sourdough to my friends and family.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My best friend and former teammate/roommate from college (Chelsea Hall) and I are reuniting during the Detroit Free Press Marathon to see what we can run 8 years after our last full marathon together! I’m excited to check off “running through another country during a race” off my bucket list. And of course I’m excited to see what Chelsea Hall and I can accomplish as we train for another full together as we navigate this marathon called life as friends and runners!
Men’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Teacher
Personal best time: 13:43 5k, 28:35 10k, 2:19 debut full marathon
Career highlights: Becoming a Division I All-American, qualifying for 4 NCAA meets, signing a professional contract.
Favorite quote: “You never know what’s right around the corner.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have two former Cincinnati Bearcat teammates that also signed professional running contracts.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have heard so many great things about the event being 30 minutes away and I finally felt it was the right time to experience it for myself and get after it!
Profession: Data Engineer
Instagram: @paul_arredondo
Personal best time: XC: 23:30 8k(Louisville), 29:26 10k(Louisville) TRACK: 4:05 Mile, 13:50 5000m, 29:08 10000m ROAD: 29:20(peach tree), 1:05:47 half
Career highlights: 2021: CUSA XC champion, NCAA D1 southeast individual national qualifier 2022: NCAA D1 Outdoor championships regional qualifier, 2023: 15th at the USATF road 10k champs
Favorite quote: “If you don’t plan to succeed, you plan to fail!” -my mother
Fun fact(s) about you: Tillamook ice cream connoisseur, A proud first gen Mexican-American, and an unconventional running start: I never played sports as a kid and only started running because my mom didn’t want my sister running alone while she prepped for her sports. I was around 12 at the time and have been running ever since!
Why are you racing Detroit?: The post college scene for me has been a selective battle with working full time and mitigating some injury this past year. I have goals I don’t want to give up on and I also love going somewhere new any chance I get. I found the Detroit Int. Half to be a great opportunity in my schedule with having one half under my belt. This will be my first half with competition and I am excited about that.
Profession: Software Developer
Instagram: @meindertsmam
Personal best time: 14:37 (5k), 30:21 (10k), 1:05:49 (1/2 marathon)
Career highlights: 2022 MIAA 10,000m champion, ran a PR of 1:05:49 at the 2023 Indy Monumental 1/2 marathon
Favorite quote: “Run for fun and PRs” -Al Carius
Fun fact(s) about you: In addition to being a runner, i am also a drummer, and a high school cross country coach.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit has been on my bucket list for a few years now. The addition of the elite field this year presented a great opportunity to run with top level competition.
Profession: Resident physician
Instagram: @morsirayyan
Personal best time: 66:24 half marathon, 29:12 10k, 13:57 5k, 4:03 mile
Career highlights: Qualifying for the NCAA national championship twice in the 10k while at the University of Michigan, winning the Detroit International Half Marathon in 2017 and 2022
Favorite quote: “Focus on the process, not the result. At the end of the day, just go out there and compete” -paraphrased from Alex Gibby
Fun fact(s) about you: My dog Galaxy is my main training buddy, though she only does about 1/3 of the mileage and stops a lot.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s a fun race on a beautiful course! Nothing beats racing across the bridge toward the rising sun.
Profession: R&D Scientist
Instagram: @Dylan_parker19
Personal best time: 14:44 5k, 1:06:55 half marathon
Career highlights: 2x NIRCA All-American, Winner of 2024 Columbus 10k
Favorite quote: “You cannot travel the path until you have become the path itself”
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a former college club runner (NIRCA represent!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: With how close this race is to my hometown, I felt like it was time to race it. Combine that with the rising competitiveness of the elite field this year makes for a very appealing choice.
Profession: Marketing
Instagram: @mikeblaszczyk
Personal best time: Full Marathon: 2:16:43, Half-Marathon: 1:07:22, 10k: 29:48, 5k: 14:22
Career highlights: 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials Marathon Qualifier, Finished 66th at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials Marathon.
Favorite quote: “We must all either wear out or rust out, every one of us. My choice is to wear out.” -Theodore Roosevelt
Fun fact(s) about you: Michiganders through and through! My sister, Nicole Stoll (Blaszczyk), was Miss Michigan 2009.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Michigan distance running has always produced an elite group of athletes that can compete at the national level. I’m racing Detroit to represent that statement, and am excited for the Detroit event to become more competitive!
Profession: Inventory Deployment Analyst
Instagram: @beersandmiles
Personal best time: Half Marathon: 67:29; Full Marathon: 2:19:23
Career highlights: 2022 Hood to Coast Team Champions/First to the Trackhouse Boston 2023
Favorite quote: “I should always be saying, ‘My life is better than I ever imagined it would be, and it’s only going to improve.”-Calvin and Hobbes
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a really bad habit of using races are opportunities to stock up on beer from out of the area. After CIM I brought back two 3 Liter Bottles from Russian River Brewing. For my race in Madison I brought back over 150 beers. Sorry coach.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s not often you have an opportunity to race amongst such a large group of talented individuals. Hoping to put my nose in it and see how fast I can go!
Women’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Social Media Marketing
Instagram: @annabene713
Personal best time: 1:13:10 (half), 2:35:04 (full), 16:01 (5K)
Career highlights: D1 XC All-American (40th place- 2017); Olympic Trials Qualifier in first marathon (2:35:04 at McKirdy Micro Marathon); 4th Place Podium D1 NCAA Team (2018- University of Michigan)
Favorite quote: “The greatest gift you can give someone is to believe in them.”
Fun fact(s) about you: Despite living in Hawaii and being a 5 minute walk from the beach, I am deathly afraid of sharks because of how much Shark Week my brother and I watched growing up. You will not find me more than 10 feet from shore in the ocean. I did cage dive with sharks, though (will never do that again)!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Lots of reasons! My husband and I will use any excuse to head back to the mainland to race and visit family. I’m STOKED Detroit is having its first elite field, because this was a race I was interested in running for a while. Weather permitting, it seems like a fun course to chase a PR. Also, I’ve never been to Canada, so I’m pumped to check that off the list. :)
Profession: Wedding Photographer, High School Track and Field and Cross Country Coach
Instagram: @alyssamcelheny
Personal best time: 2:37:31 (marathon), 1:14:55 (half marathon)
Career highlights: NCAA D3 All-American in the 3k steeplechase, 3x Champion Grand Rapids Half Marathon, came within 31 seconds of the 2024 US Marathon OTQ standard.
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve been running competitively since 7th grade (over 20 years ago). The cross country team I coach with my husband won a state title this fall. One of my favorite parts of my job (wedding photography) is the places it brings me – I’ve photographed couples in India, Japan, Singapore, Italy, Canada, Spain, Australia, Thailand, Mexico, and many US states. Running in these countries has been such an incredible way to see the world.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I had PRP injections into my hamstring and gluteal tendons in April to deal with some lingering tendinopathy. On June 6th I will be able to return to running and I wanted an exciting fall goal race to train for. The Detroit International Half Marathon seemed like the perfect choice.
Profession: District Manager
Personal best time: 2:43 in the marathon, 1:15:59 in the half marathon, 16:32 in the 5k.
Career highlights: Running the Berlin Marathon – so cool to run a race abroad.
Favorite quote: “And I knew exactly what to do. But in a much more real sense, I had no idea what to do.” -Michael Scott
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a 200+ day Duolingo streak.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have always wanted to race Detroit! It feels like a hometown race.
Profession: Physical therapy student
Personal best time: 34:00 10k, 16:08 5k
Career highlights: Helping Grand Valley to win the 2023 NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships, getting third at the 2024 NCAA Division II Indoor Track Championships, achieving 11 All-American honors at the Division III level with Hope College.
Favorite quote: “Dreams are the touchstones of our characters.” -Henry David Thoreau
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a triplet!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit seems like the perfect race to run my first half marathon!
Profession: Bookkeeper
Instagram: @tricia_tee11
Personal best time: 800m – 2:08; 1500m – 4:19; 3000m – 9:18; 5000m – 16:17; Half-Marathon – 1:14:50
Career highlights: 2x USA Indoor Nationals Qualifier; Former TCU Mile/3000m Record Holder; Drake Relays 5000m Champion; 2x Texas State 5A 1600m Silver Medalist; 8x Rio Grande Valley XC/T&F MVP and All-Decade Team
Favorite quote: Expect nothing and appreciate everything
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a room in my house dedicated to Harry Potter memorabilia.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hoping for a “cool” race after training in the Texas summer heat!
Profession: Teaching Professor in Economics at Florida State University
Personal best time: 1:18:07 Houston Half Marathon 2023
Career highlights: Winning a trail half marathon 6 months pregnant. Sharing a master’s podium with Edna Kiplagat at the Boilermaker 15K 2023. 1st place USATF master’s xc club championship 2021, 1st place USATF master’s mile championship 2023
Favorite quote: “Run the first 2/3 of the race with your head, the last 1/3 with your heart.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I used to be a 100m hurdler; I was not great!
Why are you racing Detroit?: My family still lives in the Detroit area. My husband and I love to choose a half to train for together. I’ve never one this one and running internationally seems so fun!
Profession: Teacher
Instagram: @jamiemorrr
Personal best time: 1:18:28
Career highlights: NCAA XC National Runners Up, 2016. 800m Big Ten champion, 2018. 2 x USATF Champs qualifier.
Favorite quote: Get busy livin’ or get busy dyin’
Fun fact(s) about you: I am the only runner in my very large family of very talented athletes!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Needed some hometown energy to put some wind beneath my sails this training block. It’s been a childhood dream of mine to race Detroit!
Profession: Sports Dietitian
Instagram: @meredithdarcienutrition
Personal best time: 9:55 3k, 17:06 5k, 36:21 10k, 1:19:29 Half
Career highlights: Traveling the country with my UH XC/TF teammates – from Seattle and California to Drake and Penn Relays. Post-collegiately, being a proud member of the “Pizza Gals” who set the women’s course record in the Texas Independence Relay (~200mi relay) this March.
Favorite quote: “Keep showing up” -Des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: Every 4 years my birthday falls on Thanksgiving and it’s the best – just eating good food, being with family, and watching Lions football.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m excited to come home and escape the heat. Houston doesn’t have a fall, it’s just extended summer. I also have just recently started to really overcome some performance anxiety around running and have been able to simply enjoy setting goals for myself and competing! Looking forward to more of a “full-circle” moment to come back to the area where my love for running really took off.
Presenting the Elite Runners of the Detroit Free Press Marathon 2024!
The Detroit Free Press Marathon, presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, is thrilled to unveil its prestigious Elite Field for 2024. As part of our enduring commitment to elevate the race’s prominence and foster a culture of excellence in distance running, we are honored to welcome an exceptional cohort of elite athletes from across Metro Detroit, Michigan, Canada, and the United States.
Men’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Online Running Coach & Personal Trainer
Instagram: @Andyb_xc3
Personal best time: 2:15:52
Career highlights: 2024 Pittsburgh Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: “Everyone wants to be a beast until it’s time to do what beasts do” -Eric Thomas
Fun fact(s) about you: Believe it or not I met my wife at a race and it was love at first sight.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love Detroit, I love the community of runners we have here and I love this race. It’s a great experience that is literally in my backyard that there’s no way I could pass up on the opportunity to race the marathon.
Profession: Online Running Coach / Personal Trainer
Instagram: @iancarter94
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:16:20
Career highlights: Indy Marathon Champion 2021.
Favorite quote: “Whatever you do, always give 100%. Unless you’re donating blood.” -Bill Murray
Fun fact(s) about you: Ran Track and Cross Country at The University of Mississippi. The quickest way to my heart is a cold PBR. As well as coaching online for McKirdy Trained I also help coach alongside Ryan Hall for a professional group in Flagstaff.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It seems like a fun race and a great opportunity to be a part of. I would also like to see my name alongside with the new course record.
Profession: Sales Engineer at Cognex
Instagram: @noahssteffen
Personal best time: 2:16:59 Marathon at Bayshore Marathon
Career highlights: Running in the 2024 US Olympic Trials Marathon
Favorite quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a twin sister
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love being able to race in Michigan while still having a very competitive elite field. Having an elite field full of Michigan residents will be a fantastic way to showcase the large amount of talent we have in the mitten.
Profession: Financial Analyst, Graduate Student
Instagram: @Trumanzac
Personal best time: 1:05:38 (Half-marathon)
Career highlights: NCAA D2 All-American
Favorite quote: “Prepare with humility, compete with confidence.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a huge Pistons fan.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted my first marathon to be in the best city in the world.
Profession: Software Engineer
Instagram: @Run_Lynx
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:19:53, Half Marathon 1:05:50
Career highlights: Back to back 2:22 marathons three weeks apart.
Favorite quote: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi
Fun fact(s) about you: I love art and music. It’s very rare for me to go a day without dancing. I also love cooking.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was born and raised in Detroit. My family still lives there and with the belief that I will one day leave Michigan, I would love to give it my all in a place filled with family and friends.
Profession: Director of Internal Sales & Operations, Alma Tire Companies
Instagram: @jrussellconn
Personal best time: 2:20:16
Career highlights: Racing in the elite field as a master at the 2024 Boston Marathon and finishing 30th overall.
Favorite quote: The one with a fair price and best service.
Fun fact(s) about you: I have never had a cavity.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Wanted to run close to home.
Profession: Patent Attorney
Instagram: @mpellenberger
@chicagoroadtrailrunner
Personal best time: 2:21:19, 67:43
Career highlights: 52nd overall, 2022 Chicago Marathon; 2nd overall, 2021 Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon; 1st overall, 2024 Western Springs Tower Trot (Double)
Favorite quote: “Underpromise, overdeliver”
Fun fact(s) about you: We have a dog, Waffles, who looks like a big corgi (but is not!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: Fast times and cool weather!
Profession: Work at a Corporate Advising Firm
Instagram: @james_gedris
Personal best time: 4:13 road mile, 14:11 5000m, 1:07:47 Half Marathon
Career highlights: Was the first Michigan high schooler to run under 15 minutes in an indoor 5000. I won the 2024 Rock CF Half Marathon.
Favorite quote: “Go to sleep!” -Mike Smith
Fun fact(s) about you: I was once bitten by a camel.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Running over the bridge and through the tunnel makes Detroit an extremely unique course.
Profession: Advertising
Instagram: @xcmora18
Personal best time: 2:22:03 Full, 1:09:01 Half
Career highlights: 3:59 Mile – pre super shoes ;)
Favorite quote: “It’s very important – no matter what you may do professionally – to keep alive the healthy interests of your youth. Children’s play is not just kids’ stuff. Children’s play is rather the stuff of most future inventions.” -Fred Rogers
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a cat named Archie who was born without a tail
Why are you racing Detroit?: My younger brother convinced me to sign up with him and I wanted the experience of a “smaller” marathon as this will be my first non-world major.
Profession: Product line management for HOKA
Instagram: @Oohsnapbee
Personal best time: 2:18:13 / 1:04:33 / 13:55
Career highlights: This one
Favorite quote: “Wrecked em’? Damn near killed em!”
Fun fact(s) about you: I can beatbox
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because I’m a trend setter
Profession: Staff Accountant & Sport Performance Trainer
Instagram: @The_Matt_25
Personal best time: Marathon : 2:22.30 Half Marathon: 1:10
Career highlights: 2024 Eugene Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: “Your life is too valuable, your calling too great, & your God too awesome to waste your life on what doesn’t matter.” -Craig Groeschel
Fun fact(s) about you: I have two dogs. A Golden doodle name Sandi & a Maltipoo named Sully. I ran for the University of the Incarnate Word.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m incredibly excited to be part of this elite field at the Detroit Marathon. I look forward to being in a new city and new experiences to come.
Profession: Pizza Expert
Instagram: @mkatsefaras
Personal best time: Marathon 2:23:15, 50K 2:55:47
Career highlights: Running with team USA in India at the 2023 50K World Championships. Placing 3rd at the 2023 National Championships, in NY. Being a part of the lowest team score (27pts) in Michigan D1 High School Cross Country, in 2006, at Pinckney High School.
Favorite quote: “Its better to do something wrong than to do nothing at all.” -Grandpa Joe
Fun fact(s) about you: My wife and I are expecting our first baby shortly after race.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Its close to home in case I need to hurry back to catch the baby.
Profession: Software Engineer
Personal best time: 2:23:22
Career highlights: 2023 & 2024 Wisconsin Marathon winner (hometown race)
Favorite quote: Life is a journey, not a destination.
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run from Cerro de la Muerte to the Pacific in Costa Rica
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted to run a marathon where I could compete up front and also get an over due new PR. Detroit seemed like a great race for both!
Profession: Physical Therapist
Instagram: @lijdodhenll
Personal best time: 2:23:44 CIM 2023
Career highlights: Winning Hood to Coast 2022 with The Goodland team was unforgettable. One of the most fun races of my road running life was Grandma’s marathon 2023.
Favorite quote: Be nice, have fun
Fun fact(s) about you: I love baking bread. I started in college when a classmate brought in these amazing slices for lunch. He gave me starter and a lesson in fermentation and I’ve been making a loaf or three most weeks since then.
Why are you racing Detroit?: When I learned that Detroit was putting together a competitive elite field I thought I’d have more fun and get to race harder than at other fall marathons in the Midwest. I’m stoked to race my first Detroit Free Press Marathon!
Profession: English professor
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:24:09; half marathon: 1:10:00
Career highlights: Winning three consecutive Cowtown (Fort Worth) Marathons (2020, 2022, 2023) and the 2018 Seattle Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon; running 2:26 marathons on back-to-back weekends (2022 Hartford Marathon [4th] and Baystate Marathon [2nd])
Favorite quote: “What’s wrong with being unhappy? I’m unhappy most of my life.” –Tom Izzo on the transfer portal
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve moved seven times in the past three years. But I’m staying put now, even if the roof falls in.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I raced Detroit last year and loved it. And I get to sleep in my own bed the night before.
Profession: Automotive Design Engineering Senior Manager
Personal best time: 2:21:42 marathon, 14:22 5k
Career highlights: Winning Detroit marathon (2021, 2022), Glass City marathon (2021), Houston top masters (2024)
Favorite quote: Expect the unexpected
Fun fact(s) about you: My 1st marathon was Detroit when I was 16 years old!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hometown race, awesome race organization and course
Profession: I am a coach with Stridewise Running, and in addition to this I perform metabolic testing (VO2 max) at ProActive Fitness Analytics. On a day to day basis I also sell shoes at The Running Factory.
Instagram: @josh_z55
Personal best time: 2:24 Marathon (debut), 1:07 Half Marathon
Career highlights: Making team Canada with two of my friends and teammates while at the University of Windsor
Favorite quote: “Athletics is not so much about the legs. It’s about the heart and the mind.” – Eliud Kipchoge
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m the assistant coach of the University of Windsor Men’s and Women’s Cross Country teams
Why are you racing Detroit?: I loved doing the Detroit Half Marathon two years ago, and wanted to challenge myself with the full thing this time around, now that I have experience with it.
Profession: Physical Therapist
Instagram: @sykes_dylan
Personal best time: 2:25:31
Career highlights: 57th at Boston Marathon 2022, 1st at Grand Rapids Marathon 2021
Favorite quote: One must imagine Sisyphus happy
Fun fact(s) about you: I ran across Michigan in 70 hours, I will hopefully have Italian dual citizenship by race day, and my older brother Jordan will also be racing the marathon.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My parents and extended family are all from the Detroit area, and one of my brothers lives there currently. I’ve always loved the city, and am excited to be back there racing against an exceptional field.
Women’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Running coach
Instagram: @sydneytdevore
Personal best time: 2:31:07, 1:12:11
Career highlights: Winning the Pittsburgh Marathon in 2018 (2:32), 16th at the 2018 NYC Marathon (2:32), 22nd at the Boston Marathon 2:31:08, Finishing in the top 10 at the USA 15k championships and 10 mile championships. Qualifying for 2 Olympic Trials 2020 & 2024
Favorite quote: “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I used to teach 3rd and 4th Grade. I ran for the University of Florida. I lived and taught English in Busan, South Korea. I have two GSPs and it is my dream to compete on Chopped.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hometown GLORY! ;)
Profession: Teacher
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:34:09 Half Marathon: 1:14:02
Career highlights: 2024 Marathon OTQ
Favorite quote: “You are never too old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a teacher, love camping and hiking, and have been to every state in America!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have heard wonderful things about this marathon and I am very excited for the addition of the elite field!
Profession: Communications Director, Demand Progress
Instagram: @ms_langholz
Personal best time: 2:38:22, Grandma’s Marathon 2022
Career highlights: Running my personal best at Grandma’s Marathon was a blast. It’s near my hometown, I had my friend Colton running with me (it was an ~easy~ pace for him), and you can’t beat a fast course by Lake Superior.
Favorite quote: “If we don’t fight hard enough for the things we stand for, at some point we have to recognize we don’t really stand for them.” -Paul Wellstone
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a super cute pup named Fontina. She’s obviously named after a cheese because both my husband and I are from Wisconsin and are obsessed with cheese. I collect cookbooks and have over 150 of them.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m incredibly excited to be part of this new elite field at the Detroit Marathon. I absolutely adore the Midwest, and have enjoyed my visits to Detroit. I can’t wait to race in the cool fall weather and see what kind of time I can pull off.
Profession: Physician Assistant
Instagram: @katelandau
Personal best time: 2:31:56 (Boston 2019)
Career highlights: Boston 2019- 13th, NYC marathon 2019-15th, Olympic Trials 2020- 14th, Chicago 2018-8th
Favorite quote: Be the best you can be (Tri-Valley High School motto)
Fun fact(s) about you: Don’t want to get in trouble!!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I won Detroit in 2023 but did not race well and want to come back and race strong/plus a beautiful international marathon!!
Profession: Marine Corps Aviation Supply Officer
Instagram: @Christine4516
Personal best time: Marathon 2:43; Half 1:17
Career highlights: 3rd place at the 2022 Columbus Marathon and 47th at the 2023 Boston Marathon. Both were huge confidence boosts in my abilities and determination.
Favorite quote: “Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.” -Roy T. Bennett
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a huge Harry Potter fan. I listen to audiobooks once a year around Christmas season.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I found out that there was going to be a competitive field racing here and I wanted to be part of that! I am really excited to be included in this field and challenge myself without the pressure of a time standard.
Profession: Bartender
Instagram: @Runskinney85
Personal best time: 2:45:14
Career highlights: Top Ten Placement Bolder Boulder 10k, Competing in various USATF championship road races, Top 20 at Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 mile.
Favorite quote: You have a plan, until you get punched in the face.
Fun fact(s) about you: Closet pianist (Rachmaninoff and Chopin are my favorites), old video games collecter and my favorite drink to make is margaritas and old fashions.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m racing for my family heritage and because both my grandfathers were Detroit policemen and to be apart of a history and positive change for both the city and the race excites me.
Profession: Sr. Mgr. FEHS
Instagram: @cynthiaholderer
Personal best time: 2:46:28 full 1:19:46 half
Career highlights: Finished 57th at Berlin 2022
Favorite quote: Run Forrest run!
Fun fact(s) about you: I love training during the summer heat.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because I get to cross into Canada! I love unusual races.
Profession: Director of community development and engagement at Player2Player
Instagram: @hope.hill
Personal best time: 2:49, 1:19:33
Career highlights: Getting to run through both of my pregnancies and running Boston as a brand new marathoner-epic experience!
Favorite quote: Work hard and be nice to people.
Fun fact(s) about you: I have the coolest kids: Bowie & Margot. I started running after college to try something new- obviously fell in love. I’m living in Ireland this summer with my family!
Why are you racing Detroit?: To race with Elise Claffey Martins- the best training partner a girl could ask for!
Profession: Stay at home mom/ mental health therapist
Instagram: @Mariacicerolindberg
Personal best time: Marathon-2:49:48, half marathon- 1:19:44, 10k 33:52,5k- 16:13, 3k- 9:28
Career highlights: 4x all American at Boston College, inducted into the Boston College Hall of Fame, USA junior cross country champion and qualified to compete at world championships in Ireland, ACC 10k champion, 3x Illinois state champion record holder in 3200, Winner of Grand Rapids marathon, rock ‘n’ roll Arizona marathon and Bayshore marathon
Favorite quote: “The journey is the goal”
Fun fact(s) about you: Mom of 3, love yoga, vegetarian since high school
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love having a goal to work towards and running has always been my self care. My husband and I enjoys using marathons as a get away to see different pets of the country.
Profession: Financial Controller
Instagram: @mrissaw
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:50:38
Career highlights: Running my 5k and Marathon PRs on back to back days.
Favorite quote: “It’s not about the finish line, it’s about enjoying the process of getting there.”
Fun fact(s) about you: In high school I was a track runner, but did sprints. Despite my coach trying to convince me every year to run distance and join the XC team, I refused. A year after I graduated I realized I DID enjoy distance running and ended up running for two seasons at Cleveland State University as a walk on.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit in 2023 was the second marathon I ran after having my second baby. I loved the course (hello Canada) and the energy around the entire race. While I was proud of the time I accomplished at 13 months postpartum, I wanted to come back and see what was possible as I continued to work my way back post baby.
Profession: Retired General Motors Global Supply Chain Executive (2021); Current Owner of Classic Auto Management, a Used Vehicle Dealership
Instagram: @lisa.veneziano.8427
Personal best time: Marathon 2:50:44
Career highlights: USATF Masters Hall of Fame 2023; USATF Masters Long Distance Athlete of the Year 2021; 12K US National Record Holder 55-59 Age Group; 18 Boston Marathons including 5 age group awards (3x1st place 2022/23/24, 1x2nd place 2021, 1x3rd place 2016); Elite Boston Start in 2009; 5 Time Michigan Runner of the Year 2011-2015
Favorite quote: Dig deeper…No regrets when you cross that finish line! Lisa V
Fun fact(s) about you: I love a challenge and enjoy seeing what I can do at a myriad of distances. I compete all year long, doing indoor track and road races in the winter/spring, outdoor track and road races in the summer and road races in the fall. I do a wide range of distances – from the 800M to the Marathon, as well as duathlons and an occasional sprint triathlon (since I will drown if I do anything longer lol). I am in the mode of doing 3 marathons a year – 1 in Q1, Boston in April and 1 in Oct/Nov. I am very much looking forward to turning 60 in Sept and seeing what I can do across multiple distances/events in my new age group!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I LOVE running Detroit!!! It was my 1st marathon (1994) and I was the overall women’s winner in 2000, so it has a special meaning with me for sure. It is always very well organized and a great course – even more so now that there is no Belle Isle (thank you race directors!). There is something special about running a “local” marathon and I’m super proud to represent SE Michigan as part of the elite field!
Profession: Physical Therapist
Instagram: @chelsmariehall
Personal best time: 2:46:29
Career highlights: Running for the University of Kentucky and winning the 5k/10k double at SECs
Favorite quote: Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail.
Fun fact(s) about you: In addition to being a wife, mother, and PT, I love to make anything sourdough!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Being a mother has given me so much strength and I am learning to continue to chase goals with my family by my side. I hope to be a wholesome example for my two kids, Owen & Emersyn, on how to push through the hard times, learn from setbacks, and find the courage to chase their goals in whatever they choose in life.
Profession: Brand Manager
Instagram: @jabrill
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:56:56 | Half Marathon: 1:23:29 | 10K: 38:31 | 5K: 17:51
Career highlights: 2019 First Overall Female Champion Rock n Roll San Diego Marathon | 2017 First Overall Female Champion Star Wars Disneyland Half Marathon | 2024 World Marathon Majors Six-Star Finisher
Favorite quote: “All progress takes place outside the comfort zone.” + “You know you might surprise yourself” (lyrics from Jack Garratt song”
Fun fact(s) about you: I was on a reality tv gameshow and quit my job back in 2017 to become a Travel Youtuber. I like to think of myself as JV in the running world. Good but not great, and I’m okay with that. I like to leave room to surprise myself.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It feels like a sleeper race (as in hyper competitive) in a sleeper city. I’m a big fan of exploring cities I don’t know that well on foot by destination races. Now that the quest to get all 6 stars in the world marathon majors is complete, I’m on a mission to see how fast I can get before I throw the towel in from competitive racing. I’m also getting married in November so the timing of this race will help keep accountable and sane with wedding planning as I train.
Profession: Graduate Student (studying nutrition and dietetics)
Instagram: @ally_renee19
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:57:49, Half Marathon: 1:22:54
Career highlights: Running the Boston Marathon in the 50th anniversary year of women’s competition.
Favorite quote: Run with your heart.
Fun fact(s) about you: I have visited 12 U.S. national parks with the goal of visiting all 63 in my lifetime. It’s also on my bucket list to run in all 50 states.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was looking forward to racing a fall marathon, but wasn’t wanting to travel far. Having the opportunity to run with fast women right here in Michigan was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
Profession: Ford Bronco Engineer
Instagram: @Kayla.hughes
Personal best time: 2:57 M, 1:23 HM
Career highlights: Getting to run at Detroit Mercy in college
Favorite quote: Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right – Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a greyhound named S’mores
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have volunteered at Detroit many times and I ran it as my first marathon in 2021. I’ve been dying to do the bridge and tunnel for years. I love racing in this awesome city. Lots of great memories.
Profession: Regional Director of Operations & Occupational Therapist with FOX Rehabilitation
Instagram: @rosenoruna
Personal best time: 2:59:24 full marathon
Career highlights: Going sub-3 at The 2023 Grandma’s Marathon and qualifying there for Boston along with my husband. Moving to Grand Rapids in Fall ’23 and finding a huge running community of friends that support my training and goals. Being named the 2016-2017 Female Athlete of the Year at Concordia University Wisconsin.
Favorite quote: *You can either accept defeat or pursue victory” – Russell DeLap
Fun fact(s) about you: I Irish danced for 10 years of my childhood and I fully attribute my endurance foundation to it!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted a “new home state” course that was had a unique aspect to it, like crossing into Canada, where I could run with and be cheered on by my Society Track Club Teammates to achieve my goal of cutting down my marathon PR.
Profession: Nurse Practitioner
Instagram: @jesszang
Personal best time: Half Marathon 1:22, Full Marathon 3:07, 5k: 17:05
Career highlights: Competing for 4 years at Indiana State University with amazing teammates and my fantastic coach, Coach John Gartland and racing the Boston Marathon!
Favorite quote: Carpe Diem – Seize the day
Fun fact(s) about you: My first true love is skiing and I love to travel to new places around the world to explore their skiing terrain. There were a few times in high school that I didn’t tell my coaches what I was doing on spring break (skiing!) because they didn’t want me to get injured. Ironically, I’ve had more running related injuries and zero ski related injuries! I’m also an avid baker and love giving away loaves of sourdough to my friends and family.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My best friend and former teammate/roommate from college (Chelsea Hall) and I are reuniting during the Detroit Free Press Marathon to see what we can run 8 years after our last full marathon together! I’m excited to check off “running through another country during a race” off my bucket list. And of course I’m excited to see what Chelsea Hall and I can accomplish as we train for another full together as we navigate this marathon called life as friends and runners!
Men’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Teacher
Personal best time: 13:43 5k, 28:35 10k, 2:19 debut full marathon
Career highlights: Becoming a Division I All-American, qualifying for 4 NCAA meets, signing a professional contract.
Favorite quote: “You never know what’s right around the corner.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have two former Cincinnati Bearcat teammates that also signed professional running contracts.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have heard so many great things about the event being 30 minutes away and I finally felt it was the right time to experience it for myself and get after it!
Profession: Data Engineer
Instagram: @paul_arredondo
Personal best time: XC: 23:30 8k(Louisville), 29:26 10k(Louisville) TRACK: 4:05 Mile, 13:50 5000m, 29:08 10000m ROAD: 29:20(peach tree), 1:05:47 half
Career highlights: 2021: CUSA XC champion, NCAA D1 southeast individual national qualifier 2022: NCAA D1 Outdoor championships regional qualifier, 2023: 15th at the USATF road 10k champs
Favorite quote: “If you don’t plan to succeed, you plan to fail!” -my mother
Fun fact(s) about you: Tillamook ice cream connoisseur, A proud first gen Mexican-American, and an unconventional running start: I never played sports as a kid and only started running because my mom didn’t want my sister running alone while she prepped for her sports. I was around 12 at the time and have been running ever since!
Why are you racing Detroit?: The post college scene for me has been a selective battle with working full time and mitigating some injury this past year. I have goals I don’t want to give up on and I also love going somewhere new any chance I get. I found the Detroit Int. Half to be a great opportunity in my schedule with having one half under my belt. This will be my first half with competition and I am excited about that.
Profession: Software Developer
Instagram: @meindertsmam
Personal best time: 14:37 (5k), 30:21 (10k), 1:05:49 (1/2 marathon)
Career highlights: 2022 MIAA 10,000m champion, ran a PR of 1:05:49 at the 2023 Indy Monumental 1/2 marathon
Favorite quote: “Run for fun and PRs” -Al Carius
Fun fact(s) about you: In addition to being a runner, i am also a drummer, and a high school cross country coach.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit has been on my bucket list for a few years now. The addition of the elite field this year presented a great opportunity to run with top level competition.
Profession: Resident physician
Instagram: @morsirayyan
Personal best time: 66:24 half marathon, 29:12 10k, 13:57 5k, 4:03 mile
Career highlights: Qualifying for the NCAA national championship twice in the 10k while at the University of Michigan, winning the Detroit International Half Marathon in 2017 and 2022
Favorite quote: “Focus on the process, not the result. At the end of the day, just go out there and compete” -paraphrased from Alex Gibby
Fun fact(s) about you: My dog Galaxy is my main training buddy, though she only does about 1/3 of the mileage and stops a lot.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s a fun race on a beautiful course! Nothing beats racing across the bridge toward the rising sun.
Profession: R&D Scientist
Instagram: @Dylan_parker19
Personal best time: 14:44 5k, 1:06:55 half marathon
Career highlights: 2x NIRCA All-American, Winner of 2024 Columbus 10k
Favorite quote: “You cannot travel the path until you have become the path itself”
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a former college club runner (NIRCA represent!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: With how close this race is to my hometown, I felt like it was time to race it. Combine that with the rising competitiveness of the elite field this year makes for a very appealing choice.
Profession: Marketing
Instagram: @mikeblaszczyk
Personal best time: Full Marathon: 2:16:43, Half-Marathon: 1:07:22, 10k: 29:48, 5k: 14:22
Career highlights: 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials Marathon Qualifier, Finished 66th at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials Marathon.
Favorite quote: “We must all either wear out or rust out, every one of us. My choice is to wear out.” -Theodore Roosevelt
Fun fact(s) about you: Michiganders through and through! My sister, Nicole Stoll (Blaszczyk), was Miss Michigan 2009.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Michigan distance running has always produced an elite group of athletes that can compete at the national level. I’m racing Detroit to represent that statement, and am excited for the Detroit event to become more competitive!
Profession: Inventory Deployment Analyst
Instagram: @beersandmiles
Personal best time: Half Marathon: 67:29; Full Marathon: 2:19:23
Career highlights: 2022 Hood to Coast Team Champions/First to the Trackhouse Boston 2023
Favorite quote: “I should always be saying, ‘My life is better than I ever imagined it would be, and it’s only going to improve.”-Calvin and Hobbes
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a really bad habit of using races are opportunities to stock up on beer from out of the area. After CIM I brought back two 3 Liter Bottles from Russian River Brewing. For my race in Madison I brought back over 150 beers. Sorry coach.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s not often you have an opportunity to race amongst such a large group of talented individuals. Hoping to put my nose in it and see how fast I can go!
Women’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Social Media Marketing
Instagram: @annabene713
Personal best time: 1:13:10 (half), 2:35:04 (full), 16:01 (5K)
Career highlights: D1 XC All-American (40th place- 2017); Olympic Trials Qualifier in first marathon (2:35:04 at McKirdy Micro Marathon); 4th Place Podium D1 NCAA Team (2018- University of Michigan)
Favorite quote: “The greatest gift you can give someone is to believe in them.”
Fun fact(s) about you: Despite living in Hawaii and being a 5 minute walk from the beach, I am deathly afraid of sharks because of how much Shark Week my brother and I watched growing up. You will not find me more than 10 feet from shore in the ocean. I did cage dive with sharks, though (will never do that again)!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Lots of reasons! My husband and I will use any excuse to head back to the mainland to race and visit family. I’m STOKED Detroit is having its first elite field, because this was a race I was interested in running for a while. Weather permitting, it seems like a fun course to chase a PR. Also, I’ve never been to Canada, so I’m pumped to check that off the list. :)
Profession: Wedding Photographer, High School Track and Field and Cross Country Coach
Instagram: @alyssamcelheny
Personal best time: 2:37:31 (marathon), 1:14:55 (half marathon)
Career highlights: NCAA D3 All-American in the 3k steeplechase, 3x Champion Grand Rapids Half Marathon, came within 31 seconds of the 2024 US Marathon OTQ standard.
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve been running competitively since 7th grade (over 20 years ago). The cross country team I coach with my husband won a state title this fall. One of my favorite parts of my job (wedding photography) is the places it brings me – I’ve photographed couples in India, Japan, Singapore, Italy, Canada, Spain, Australia, Thailand, Mexico, and many US states. Running in these countries has been such an incredible way to see the world.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I had PRP injections into my hamstring and gluteal tendons in April to deal with some lingering tendinopathy. On June 6th I will be able to return to running and I wanted an exciting fall goal race to train for. The Detroit International Half Marathon seemed like the perfect choice.
Profession: District Manager
Personal best time: 2:43 in the marathon, 1:15:59 in the half marathon, 16:32 in the 5k.
Career highlights: Running the Berlin Marathon – so cool to run a race abroad.
Favorite quote: “And I knew exactly what to do. But in a much more real sense, I had no idea what to do.” -Michael Scott
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a 200+ day Duolingo streak.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have always wanted to race Detroit! It feels like a hometown race.
Profession: Physical therapy student
Personal best time: 34:00 10k, 16:08 5k
Career highlights: Helping Grand Valley to win the 2023 NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships, getting third at the 2024 NCAA Division II Indoor Track Championships, achieving 11 All-American honors at the Division III level with Hope College.
Favorite quote: “Dreams are the touchstones of our characters.” -Henry David Thoreau
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a triplet!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit seems like the perfect race to run my first half marathon!
Profession: Bookkeeper
Instagram: @tricia_tee11
Personal best time: 800m – 2:08; 1500m – 4:19; 3000m – 9:18; 5000m – 16:17; Half-Marathon – 1:14:50
Career highlights: 2x USA Indoor Nationals Qualifier; Former TCU Mile/3000m Record Holder; Drake Relays 5000m Champion; 2x Texas State 5A 1600m Silver Medalist; 8x Rio Grande Valley XC/T&F MVP and All-Decade Team
Favorite quote: Expect nothing and appreciate everything
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a room in my house dedicated to Harry Potter memorabilia.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hoping for a “cool” race after training in the Texas summer heat!
Profession: Teaching Professor in Economics at Florida State University
Personal best time: 1:18:07 Houston Half Marathon 2023
Career highlights: Winning a trail half marathon 6 months pregnant. Sharing a master’s podium with Edna Kiplagat at the Boilermaker 15K 2023. 1st place USATF master’s xc club championship 2021, 1st place USATF master’s mile championship 2023
Favorite quote: “Run the first 2/3 of the race with your head, the last 1/3 with your heart.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I used to be a 100m hurdler; I was not great!
Why are you racing Detroit?: My family still lives in the Detroit area. My husband and I love to choose a half to train for together. I’ve never one this one and running internationally seems so fun!
Profession: Teacher
Instagram: @jamiemorrr
Personal best time: 1:18:28
Career highlights: NCAA XC National Runners Up, 2016. 800m Big Ten champion, 2018. 2 x USATF Champs qualifier.
Favorite quote: Get busy livin’ or get busy dyin’
Fun fact(s) about you: I am the only runner in my very large family of very talented athletes!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Needed some hometown energy to put some wind beneath my sails this training block. It’s been a childhood dream of mine to race Detroit!
Profession: Sports Dietitian
Instagram: @meredithdarcienutrition
Personal best time: 9:55 3k, 17:06 5k, 36:21 10k, 1:19:29 Half
Career highlights: Traveling the country with my UH XC/TF teammates – from Seattle and California to Drake and Penn Relays. Post-collegiately, being a proud member of the “Pizza Gals” who set the women’s course record in the Texas Independence Relay (~200mi relay) this March.
Favorite quote: “Keep showing up” -Des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: Every 4 years my birthday falls on Thanksgiving and it’s the best – just eating good food, being with family, and watching Lions football.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m excited to come home and escape the heat. Houston doesn’t have a fall, it’s just extended summer. I also have just recently started to really overcome some performance anxiety around running and have been able to simply enjoy setting goals for myself and competing! Looking forward to more of a “full-circle” moment to come back to the area where my love for running really took off.
Presenting the Elite Runners of the Detroit Free Press Marathon 2024!
The Detroit Free Press Marathon, presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, is thrilled to unveil its prestigious Elite Field for 2024. As part of our enduring commitment to elevate the race’s prominence and foster a culture of excellence in distance running, we are honored to welcome an exceptional cohort of elite athletes from across Metro Detroit, Michigan, Canada, and the United States.
Men’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Online Running Coach & Personal Trainer
Instagram: @Andyb_xc3
Personal best time: 2:15:52
Career highlights: 2024 Pittsburgh Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: “Everyone wants to be a beast until it’s time to do what beasts do” -Eric Thomas
Fun fact(s) about you: Believe it or not I met my wife at a race and it was love at first sight.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love Detroit, I love the community of runners we have here and I love this race. It’s a great experience that is literally in my backyard that there’s no way I could pass up on the opportunity to race the marathon.
Profession: Online Running Coach / Personal Trainer
Instagram: @iancarter94
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:16:20
Career highlights: Indy Marathon Champion 2021.
Favorite quote: “Whatever you do, always give 100%. Unless you’re donating blood.” -Bill Murray
Fun fact(s) about you: Ran Track and Cross Country at The University of Mississippi. The quickest way to my heart is a cold PBR. As well as coaching online for McKirdy Trained I also help coach alongside Ryan Hall for a professional group in Flagstaff.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It seems like a fun race and a great opportunity to be a part of. I would also like to see my name alongside with the new course record.
Profession: Sales Engineer at Cognex
Instagram: @noahssteffen
Personal best time: 2:16:59 Marathon at Bayshore Marathon
Career highlights: Running in the 2024 US Olympic Trials Marathon
Favorite quote: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a twin sister
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love being able to race in Michigan while still having a very competitive elite field. Having an elite field full of Michigan residents will be a fantastic way to showcase the large amount of talent we have in the mitten.
Profession: Financial Analyst, Graduate Student
Instagram: @Trumanzac
Personal best time: 1:05:38 (Half-marathon)
Career highlights: NCAA D2 All-American
Favorite quote: “Prepare with humility, compete with confidence.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a huge Pistons fan.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted my first marathon to be in the best city in the world.
Profession: Software Engineer
Instagram: @Run_Lynx
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:19:53, Half Marathon 1:05:50
Career highlights: Back to back 2:22 marathons three weeks apart.
Favorite quote: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi
Fun fact(s) about you: I love art and music. It’s very rare for me to go a day without dancing. I also love cooking.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was born and raised in Detroit. My family still lives there and with the belief that I will one day leave Michigan, I would love to give it my all in a place filled with family and friends.
Profession: Director of Internal Sales & Operations, Alma Tire Companies
Instagram: @jrussellconn
Personal best time: 2:20:16
Career highlights: Racing in the elite field as a master at the 2024 Boston Marathon and finishing 30th overall.
Favorite quote: The one with a fair price and best service.
Fun fact(s) about you: I have never had a cavity.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Wanted to run close to home.
Profession: Patent Attorney
Instagram: @mpellenberger
@chicagoroadtrailrunner
Personal best time: 2:21:19, 67:43
Career highlights: 52nd overall, 2022 Chicago Marathon; 2nd overall, 2021 Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon; 1st overall, 2024 Western Springs Tower Trot (Double)
Favorite quote: “Underpromise, overdeliver”
Fun fact(s) about you: We have a dog, Waffles, who looks like a big corgi (but is not!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: Fast times and cool weather!
Profession: Work at a Corporate Advising Firm
Instagram: @james_gedris
Personal best time: 4:13 road mile, 14:11 5000m, 1:07:47 Half Marathon
Career highlights: Was the first Michigan high schooler to run under 15 minutes in an indoor 5000. I won the 2024 Rock CF Half Marathon.
Favorite quote: “Go to sleep!” -Mike Smith
Fun fact(s) about you: I was once bitten by a camel.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Running over the bridge and through the tunnel makes Detroit an extremely unique course.
Profession: Advertising
Instagram: @xcmora18
Personal best time: 2:22:03 Full, 1:09:01 Half
Career highlights: 3:59 Mile – pre super shoes ;)
Favorite quote: “It’s very important – no matter what you may do professionally – to keep alive the healthy interests of your youth. Children’s play is not just kids’ stuff. Children’s play is rather the stuff of most future inventions.” -Fred Rogers
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a cat named Archie who was born without a tail
Why are you racing Detroit?: My younger brother convinced me to sign up with him and I wanted the experience of a “smaller” marathon as this will be my first non-world major.
Profession: Product line management for HOKA
Instagram: @Oohsnapbee
Personal best time: 2:18:13 / 1:04:33 / 13:55
Career highlights: This one
Favorite quote: “Wrecked em’? Damn near killed em!”
Fun fact(s) about you: I can beatbox
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because I’m a trend setter
Profession: Staff Accountant & Sport Performance Trainer
Instagram: @The_Matt_25
Personal best time: Marathon : 2:22.30 Half Marathon: 1:10
Career highlights: 2024 Eugene Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: “Your life is too valuable, your calling too great, & your God too awesome to waste your life on what doesn’t matter.” -Craig Groeschel
Fun fact(s) about you: I have two dogs. A Golden doodle name Sandi & a Maltipoo named Sully. I ran for the University of the Incarnate Word.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m incredibly excited to be part of this elite field at the Detroit Marathon. I look forward to being in a new city and new experiences to come.
Profession: Pizza Expert
Instagram: @mkatsefaras
Personal best time: Marathon 2:23:15, 50K 2:55:47
Career highlights: Running with team USA in India at the 2023 50K World Championships. Placing 3rd at the 2023 National Championships, in NY. Being a part of the lowest team score (27pts) in Michigan D1 High School Cross Country, in 2006, at Pinckney High School.
Favorite quote: “Its better to do something wrong than to do nothing at all.” -Grandpa Joe
Fun fact(s) about you: My wife and I are expecting our first baby shortly after race.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Its close to home in case I need to hurry back to catch the baby.
Profession: Software Engineer
Personal best time: 2:23:22
Career highlights: 2023 & 2024 Wisconsin Marathon winner (hometown race)
Favorite quote: Life is a journey, not a destination.
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run from Cerro de la Muerte to the Pacific in Costa Rica
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted to run a marathon where I could compete up front and also get an over due new PR. Detroit seemed like a great race for both!
Profession: Physical Therapist
Instagram: @lijdodhenll
Personal best time: 2:23:44 CIM 2023
Career highlights: Winning Hood to Coast 2022 with The Goodland team was unforgettable. One of the most fun races of my road running life was Grandma’s marathon 2023.
Favorite quote: Be nice, have fun
Fun fact(s) about you: I love baking bread. I started in college when a classmate brought in these amazing slices for lunch. He gave me starter and a lesson in fermentation and I’ve been making a loaf or three most weeks since then.
Why are you racing Detroit?: When I learned that Detroit was putting together a competitive elite field I thought I’d have more fun and get to race harder than at other fall marathons in the Midwest. I’m stoked to race my first Detroit Free Press Marathon!
Profession: English professor
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:24:09; half marathon: 1:10:00
Career highlights: Winning three consecutive Cowtown (Fort Worth) Marathons (2020, 2022, 2023) and the 2018 Seattle Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon; running 2:26 marathons on back-to-back weekends (2022 Hartford Marathon [4th] and Baystate Marathon [2nd])
Favorite quote: “What’s wrong with being unhappy? I’m unhappy most of my life.” –Tom Izzo on the transfer portal
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve moved seven times in the past three years. But I’m staying put now, even if the roof falls in.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I raced Detroit last year and loved it. And I get to sleep in my own bed the night before.
Profession: Automotive Design Engineering Senior Manager
Personal best time: 2:21:42 marathon, 14:22 5k
Career highlights: Winning Detroit marathon (2021, 2022), Glass City marathon (2021), Houston top masters (2024)
Favorite quote: Expect the unexpected
Fun fact(s) about you: My 1st marathon was Detroit when I was 16 years old!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hometown race, awesome race organization and course
Profession: I am a coach with Stridewise Running, and in addition to this I perform metabolic testing (VO2 max) at ProActive Fitness Analytics. On a day to day basis I also sell shoes at The Running Factory.
Instagram: @josh_z55
Personal best time: 2:24 Marathon (debut), 1:07 Half Marathon
Career highlights: Making team Canada with two of my friends and teammates while at the University of Windsor
Favorite quote: “Athletics is not so much about the legs. It’s about the heart and the mind.” – Eliud Kipchoge
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m the assistant coach of the University of Windsor Men’s and Women’s Cross Country teams
Why are you racing Detroit?: I loved doing the Detroit Half Marathon two years ago, and wanted to challenge myself with the full thing this time around, now that I have experience with it.
Profession: Physical Therapist
Instagram: @sykes_dylan
Personal best time: 2:25:31
Career highlights: 57th at Boston Marathon 2022, 1st at Grand Rapids Marathon 2021
Favorite quote: One must imagine Sisyphus happy
Fun fact(s) about you: I ran across Michigan in 70 hours, I will hopefully have Italian dual citizenship by race day, and my older brother Jordan will also be racing the marathon.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My parents and extended family are all from the Detroit area, and one of my brothers lives there currently. I’ve always loved the city, and am excited to be back there racing against an exceptional field.
Women’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Running coach
Instagram: @sydneytdevore
Personal best time: 2:31:07, 1:12:11
Career highlights: Winning the Pittsburgh Marathon in 2018 (2:32), 16th at the 2018 NYC Marathon (2:32), 22nd at the Boston Marathon 2:31:08, Finishing in the top 10 at the USA 15k championships and 10 mile championships. Qualifying for 2 Olympic Trials 2020 & 2024
Favorite quote: “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I used to teach 3rd and 4th Grade. I ran for the University of Florida. I lived and taught English in Busan, South Korea. I have two GSPs and it is my dream to compete on Chopped.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hometown GLORY! ;)
Profession: Teacher
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:34:09 Half Marathon: 1:14:02
Career highlights: 2024 Marathon OTQ
Favorite quote: “You are never too old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a teacher, love camping and hiking, and have been to every state in America!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have heard wonderful things about this marathon and I am very excited for the addition of the elite field!
Profession: Communications Director, Demand Progress
Instagram: @ms_langholz
Personal best time: 2:38:22, Grandma’s Marathon 2022
Career highlights: Running my personal best at Grandma’s Marathon was a blast. It’s near my hometown, I had my friend Colton running with me (it was an ~easy~ pace for him), and you can’t beat a fast course by Lake Superior.
Favorite quote: “If we don’t fight hard enough for the things we stand for, at some point we have to recognize we don’t really stand for them.” -Paul Wellstone
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a super cute pup named Fontina. She’s obviously named after a cheese because both my husband and I are from Wisconsin and are obsessed with cheese. I collect cookbooks and have over 150 of them.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m incredibly excited to be part of this new elite field at the Detroit Marathon. I absolutely adore the Midwest, and have enjoyed my visits to Detroit. I can’t wait to race in the cool fall weather and see what kind of time I can pull off.
Profession: Physician Assistant
Instagram: @katelandau
Personal best time: 2:31:56 (Boston 2019)
Career highlights: Boston 2019- 13th, NYC marathon 2019-15th, Olympic Trials 2020- 14th, Chicago 2018-8th
Favorite quote: Be the best you can be (Tri-Valley High School motto)
Fun fact(s) about you: Don’t want to get in trouble!!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I won Detroit in 2023 but did not race well and want to come back and race strong/plus a beautiful international marathon!!
Profession: Marine Corps Aviation Supply Officer
Instagram: @Christine4516
Personal best time: Marathon 2:43; Half 1:17
Career highlights: 3rd place at the 2022 Columbus Marathon and 47th at the 2023 Boston Marathon. Both were huge confidence boosts in my abilities and determination.
Favorite quote: “Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.” -Roy T. Bennett
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a huge Harry Potter fan. I listen to audiobooks once a year around Christmas season.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I found out that there was going to be a competitive field racing here and I wanted to be part of that! I am really excited to be included in this field and challenge myself without the pressure of a time standard.
Profession: Bartender
Instagram: @Runskinney85
Personal best time: 2:45:14
Career highlights: Top Ten Placement Bolder Boulder 10k, Competing in various USATF championship road races, Top 20 at Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 mile.
Favorite quote: You have a plan, until you get punched in the face.
Fun fact(s) about you: Closet pianist (Rachmaninoff and Chopin are my favorites), old video games collecter and my favorite drink to make is margaritas and old fashions.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m racing for my family heritage and because both my grandfathers were Detroit policemen and to be apart of a history and positive change for both the city and the race excites me.
Profession: Sr. Mgr. FEHS
Instagram: @cynthiaholderer
Personal best time: 2:46:28 full 1:19:46 half
Career highlights: Finished 57th at Berlin 2022
Favorite quote: Run Forrest run!
Fun fact(s) about you: I love training during the summer heat.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because I get to cross into Canada! I love unusual races.
Profession: Director of community development and engagement at Player2Player
Instagram: @hope.hill
Personal best time: 2:49, 1:19:33
Career highlights: Getting to run through both of my pregnancies and running Boston as a brand new marathoner-epic experience!
Favorite quote: Work hard and be nice to people.
Fun fact(s) about you: I have the coolest kids: Bowie & Margot. I started running after college to try something new- obviously fell in love. I’m living in Ireland this summer with my family!
Why are you racing Detroit?: To race with Elise Claffey Martins- the best training partner a girl could ask for!
Profession: Stay at home mom/ mental health therapist
Instagram: @Mariacicerolindberg
Personal best time: Marathon-2:49:48, half marathon- 1:19:44, 10k 33:52,5k- 16:13, 3k- 9:28
Career highlights: 4x all American at Boston College, inducted into the Boston College Hall of Fame, USA junior cross country champion and qualified to compete at world championships in Ireland, ACC 10k champion, 3x Illinois state champion record holder in 3200, Winner of Grand Rapids marathon, rock ‘n’ roll Arizona marathon and Bayshore marathon
Favorite quote: “The journey is the goal”
Fun fact(s) about you: Mom of 3, love yoga, vegetarian since high school
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love having a goal to work towards and running has always been my self care. My husband and I enjoys using marathons as a get away to see different pets of the country.
Profession: Financial Controller
Instagram: @mrissaw
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:50:38
Career highlights: Running my 5k and Marathon PRs on back to back days.
Favorite quote: “It’s not about the finish line, it’s about enjoying the process of getting there.”
Fun fact(s) about you: In high school I was a track runner, but did sprints. Despite my coach trying to convince me every year to run distance and join the XC team, I refused. A year after I graduated I realized I DID enjoy distance running and ended up running for two seasons at Cleveland State University as a walk on.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit in 2023 was the second marathon I ran after having my second baby. I loved the course (hello Canada) and the energy around the entire race. While I was proud of the time I accomplished at 13 months postpartum, I wanted to come back and see what was possible as I continued to work my way back post baby.
Profession: Retired General Motors Global Supply Chain Executive (2021); Current Owner of Classic Auto Management, a Used Vehicle Dealership
Instagram: @lisa.veneziano.8427
Personal best time: Marathon 2:50:44
Career highlights: USATF Masters Hall of Fame 2023; USATF Masters Long Distance Athlete of the Year 2021; 12K US National Record Holder 55-59 Age Group; 18 Boston Marathons including 5 age group awards (3x1st place 2022/23/24, 1x2nd place 2021, 1x3rd place 2016); Elite Boston Start in 2009; 5 Time Michigan Runner of the Year 2011-2015
Favorite quote: Dig deeper…No regrets when you cross that finish line! Lisa V
Fun fact(s) about you: I love a challenge and enjoy seeing what I can do at a myriad of distances. I compete all year long, doing indoor track and road races in the winter/spring, outdoor track and road races in the summer and road races in the fall. I do a wide range of distances – from the 800M to the Marathon, as well as duathlons and an occasional sprint triathlon (since I will drown if I do anything longer lol). I am in the mode of doing 3 marathons a year – 1 in Q1, Boston in April and 1 in Oct/Nov. I am very much looking forward to turning 60 in Sept and seeing what I can do across multiple distances/events in my new age group!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I LOVE running Detroit!!! It was my 1st marathon (1994) and I was the overall women’s winner in 2000, so it has a special meaning with me for sure. It is always very well organized and a great course – even more so now that there is no Belle Isle (thank you race directors!). There is something special about running a “local” marathon and I’m super proud to represent SE Michigan as part of the elite field!
Profession: Physical Therapist
Instagram: @chelsmariehall
Personal best time: 2:46:29
Career highlights: Running for the University of Kentucky and winning the 5k/10k double at SECs
Favorite quote: Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail.
Fun fact(s) about you: In addition to being a wife, mother, and PT, I love to make anything sourdough!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Being a mother has given me so much strength and I am learning to continue to chase goals with my family by my side. I hope to be a wholesome example for my two kids, Owen & Emersyn, on how to push through the hard times, learn from setbacks, and find the courage to chase their goals in whatever they choose in life.
Profession: Brand Manager
Instagram: @jabrill
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:56:56 | Half Marathon: 1:23:29 | 10K: 38:31 | 5K: 17:51
Career highlights: 2019 First Overall Female Champion Rock n Roll San Diego Marathon | 2017 First Overall Female Champion Star Wars Disneyland Half Marathon | 2024 World Marathon Majors Six-Star Finisher
Favorite quote: “All progress takes place outside the comfort zone.” + “You know you might surprise yourself” (lyrics from Jack Garratt song”
Fun fact(s) about you: I was on a reality tv gameshow and quit my job back in 2017 to become a Travel Youtuber. I like to think of myself as JV in the running world. Good but not great, and I’m okay with that. I like to leave room to surprise myself.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It feels like a sleeper race (as in hyper competitive) in a sleeper city. I’m a big fan of exploring cities I don’t know that well on foot by destination races. Now that the quest to get all 6 stars in the world marathon majors is complete, I’m on a mission to see how fast I can get before I throw the towel in from competitive racing. I’m also getting married in November so the timing of this race will help keep accountable and sane with wedding planning as I train.
Profession: Graduate Student (studying nutrition and dietetics)
Instagram: @ally_renee19
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:57:49, Half Marathon: 1:22:54
Career highlights: Running the Boston Marathon in the 50th anniversary year of women’s competition.
Favorite quote: Run with your heart.
Fun fact(s) about you: I have visited 12 U.S. national parks with the goal of visiting all 63 in my lifetime. It’s also on my bucket list to run in all 50 states.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was looking forward to racing a fall marathon, but wasn’t wanting to travel far. Having the opportunity to run with fast women right here in Michigan was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
Profession: Ford Bronco Engineer
Instagram: @Kayla.hughes
Personal best time: 2:57 M, 1:23 HM
Career highlights: Getting to run at Detroit Mercy in college
Favorite quote: Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right – Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a greyhound named S’mores
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have volunteered at Detroit many times and I ran it as my first marathon in 2021. I’ve been dying to do the bridge and tunnel for years. I love racing in this awesome city. Lots of great memories.
Profession: Regional Director of Operations & Occupational Therapist with FOX Rehabilitation
Instagram: @rosenoruna
Personal best time: 2:59:24 full marathon
Career highlights: Going sub-3 at The 2023 Grandma’s Marathon and qualifying there for Boston along with my husband. Moving to Grand Rapids in Fall ’23 and finding a huge running community of friends that support my training and goals. Being named the 2016-2017 Female Athlete of the Year at Concordia University Wisconsin.
Favorite quote: *You can either accept defeat or pursue victory” – Russell DeLap
Fun fact(s) about you: I Irish danced for 10 years of my childhood and I fully attribute my endurance foundation to it!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted a “new home state” course that was had a unique aspect to it, like crossing into Canada, where I could run with and be cheered on by my Society Track Club Teammates to achieve my goal of cutting down my marathon PR.
Profession: Nurse Practitioner
Instagram: @jesszang
Personal best time: Half Marathon 1:22, Full Marathon 3:07, 5k: 17:05
Career highlights: Competing for 4 years at Indiana State University with amazing teammates and my fantastic coach, Coach John Gartland and racing the Boston Marathon!
Favorite quote: Carpe Diem – Seize the day
Fun fact(s) about you: My first true love is skiing and I love to travel to new places around the world to explore their skiing terrain. There were a few times in high school that I didn’t tell my coaches what I was doing on spring break (skiing!) because they didn’t want me to get injured. Ironically, I’ve had more running related injuries and zero ski related injuries! I’m also an avid baker and love giving away loaves of sourdough to my friends and family.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My best friend and former teammate/roommate from college (Chelsea Hall) and I are reuniting during the Detroit Free Press Marathon to see what we can run 8 years after our last full marathon together! I’m excited to check off “running through another country during a race” off my bucket list. And of course I’m excited to see what Chelsea Hall and I can accomplish as we train for another full together as we navigate this marathon called life as friends and runners!
Men’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Teacher
Personal best time: 13:43 5k, 28:35 10k, 2:19 debut full marathon
Career highlights: Becoming a Division I All-American, qualifying for 4 NCAA meets, signing a professional contract.
Favorite quote: “You never know what’s right around the corner.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have two former Cincinnati Bearcat teammates that also signed professional running contracts.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have heard so many great things about the event being 30 minutes away and I finally felt it was the right time to experience it for myself and get after it!
Profession: Data Engineer
Instagram: @paul_arredondo
Personal best time: XC: 23:30 8k(Louisville), 29:26 10k(Louisville) TRACK: 4:05 Mile, 13:50 5000m, 29:08 10000m ROAD: 29:20(peach tree), 1:05:47 half
Career highlights: 2021: CUSA XC champion, NCAA D1 southeast individual national qualifier 2022: NCAA D1 Outdoor championships regional qualifier, 2023: 15th at the USATF road 10k champs
Favorite quote: “If you don’t plan to succeed, you plan to fail!” -my mother
Fun fact(s) about you: Tillamook ice cream connoisseur, A proud first gen Mexican-American, and an unconventional running start: I never played sports as a kid and only started running because my mom didn’t want my sister running alone while she prepped for her sports. I was around 12 at the time and have been running ever since!
Why are you racing Detroit?: The post college scene for me has been a selective battle with working full time and mitigating some injury this past year. I have goals I don’t want to give up on and I also love going somewhere new any chance I get. I found the Detroit Int. Half to be a great opportunity in my schedule with having one half under my belt. This will be my first half with competition and I am excited about that.
Profession: Software Developer
Instagram: @meindertsmam
Personal best time: 14:37 (5k), 30:21 (10k), 1:05:49 (1/2 marathon)
Career highlights: 2022 MIAA 10,000m champion, ran a PR of 1:05:49 at the 2023 Indy Monumental 1/2 marathon
Favorite quote: “Run for fun and PRs” -Al Carius
Fun fact(s) about you: In addition to being a runner, i am also a drummer, and a high school cross country coach.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit has been on my bucket list for a few years now. The addition of the elite field this year presented a great opportunity to run with top level competition.
Profession: Resident physician
Instagram: @morsirayyan
Personal best time: 66:24 half marathon, 29:12 10k, 13:57 5k, 4:03 mile
Career highlights: Qualifying for the NCAA national championship twice in the 10k while at the University of Michigan, winning the Detroit International Half Marathon in 2017 and 2022
Favorite quote: “Focus on the process, not the result. At the end of the day, just go out there and compete” -paraphrased from Alex Gibby
Fun fact(s) about you: My dog Galaxy is my main training buddy, though she only does about 1/3 of the mileage and stops a lot.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s a fun race on a beautiful course! Nothing beats racing across the bridge toward the rising sun.
Profession: R&D Scientist
Instagram: @Dylan_parker19
Personal best time: 14:44 5k, 1:06:55 half marathon
Career highlights: 2x NIRCA All-American, Winner of 2024 Columbus 10k
Favorite quote: “You cannot travel the path until you have become the path itself”
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a former college club runner (NIRCA represent!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: With how close this race is to my hometown, I felt like it was time to race it. Combine that with the rising competitiveness of the elite field this year makes for a very appealing choice.
Profession: Marketing
Instagram: @mikeblaszczyk
Personal best time: Full Marathon: 2:16:43, Half-Marathon: 1:07:22, 10k: 29:48, 5k: 14:22
Career highlights: 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials Marathon Qualifier, Finished 66th at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials Marathon.
Favorite quote: “We must all either wear out or rust out, every one of us. My choice is to wear out.” -Theodore Roosevelt
Fun fact(s) about you: Michiganders through and through! My sister, Nicole Stoll (Blaszczyk), was Miss Michigan 2009.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Michigan distance running has always produced an elite group of athletes that can compete at the national level. I’m racing Detroit to represent that statement, and am excited for the Detroit event to become more competitive!
Profession: Inventory Deployment Analyst
Instagram: @beersandmiles
Personal best time: Half Marathon: 67:29; Full Marathon: 2:19:23
Career highlights: 2022 Hood to Coast Team Champions/First to the Trackhouse Boston 2023
Favorite quote: “I should always be saying, ‘My life is better than I ever imagined it would be, and it’s only going to improve.”-Calvin and Hobbes
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a really bad habit of using races are opportunities to stock up on beer from out of the area. After CIM I brought back two 3 Liter Bottles from Russian River Brewing. For my race in Madison I brought back over 150 beers. Sorry coach.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s not often you have an opportunity to race amongst such a large group of talented individuals. Hoping to put my nose in it and see how fast I can go!
Women’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Social Media Marketing
Instagram: @annabene713
Personal best time: 1:13:10 (half), 2:35:04 (full), 16:01 (5K)
Career highlights: D1 XC All-American (40th place- 2017); Olympic Trials Qualifier in first marathon (2:35:04 at McKirdy Micro Marathon); 4th Place Podium D1 NCAA Team (2018- University of Michigan)
Favorite quote: “The greatest gift you can give someone is to believe in them.”
Fun fact(s) about you: Despite living in Hawaii and being a 5 minute walk from the beach, I am deathly afraid of sharks because of how much Shark Week my brother and I watched growing up. You will not find me more than 10 feet from shore in the ocean. I did cage dive with sharks, though (will never do that again)!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Lots of reasons! My husband and I will use any excuse to head back to the mainland to race and visit family. I’m STOKED Detroit is having its first elite field, because this was a race I was interested in running for a while. Weather permitting, it seems like a fun course to chase a PR. Also, I’ve never been to Canada, so I’m pumped to check that off the list. :)
Profession: Wedding Photographer, High School Track and Field and Cross Country Coach
Instagram: @alyssamcelheny
Personal best time: 2:37:31 (marathon), 1:14:55 (half marathon)
Career highlights: NCAA D3 All-American in the 3k steeplechase, 3x Champion Grand Rapids Half Marathon, came within 31 seconds of the 2024 US Marathon OTQ standard.
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve been running competitively since 7th grade (over 20 years ago). The cross country team I coach with my husband won a state title this fall. One of my favorite parts of my job (wedding photography) is the places it brings me – I’ve photographed couples in India, Japan, Singapore, Italy, Canada, Spain, Australia, Thailand, Mexico, and many US states. Running in these countries has been such an incredible way to see the world.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I had PRP injections into my hamstring and gluteal tendons in April to deal with some lingering tendinopathy. On June 6th I will be able to return to running and I wanted an exciting fall goal race to train for. The Detroit International Half Marathon seemed like the perfect choice.
Profession: District Manager
Personal best time: 2:43 in the marathon, 1:15:59 in the half marathon, 16:32 in the 5k.
Career highlights: Running the Berlin Marathon – so cool to run a race abroad.
Favorite quote: “And I knew exactly what to do. But in a much more real sense, I had no idea what to do.” -Michael Scott
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a 200+ day Duolingo streak.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have always wanted to race Detroit! It feels like a hometown race.
Profession: Physical therapy student
Personal best time: 34:00 10k, 16:08 5k
Career highlights: Helping Grand Valley to win the 2023 NCAA Division II Cross Country Championships, getting third at the 2024 NCAA Division II Indoor Track Championships, achieving 11 All-American honors at the Division III level with Hope College.
Favorite quote: “Dreams are the touchstones of our characters.” -Henry David Thoreau
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a triplet!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit seems like the perfect race to run my first half marathon!
Profession: Bookkeeper
Instagram: @tricia_tee11
Personal best time: 800m – 2:08; 1500m – 4:19; 3000m – 9:18; 5000m – 16:17; Half-Marathon – 1:14:50
Career highlights: 2x USA Indoor Nationals Qualifier; Former TCU Mile/3000m Record Holder; Drake Relays 5000m Champion; 2x Texas State 5A 1600m Silver Medalist; 8x Rio Grande Valley XC/T&F MVP and All-Decade Team
Favorite quote: Expect nothing and appreciate everything
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a room in my house dedicated to Harry Potter memorabilia.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hoping for a “cool” race after training in the Texas summer heat!
Profession: Teaching Professor in Economics at Florida State University
Personal best time: 1:18:07 Houston Half Marathon 2023
Career highlights: Winning a trail half marathon 6 months pregnant. Sharing a master’s podium with Edna Kiplagat at the Boilermaker 15K 2023. 1st place USATF master’s xc club championship 2021, 1st place USATF master’s mile championship 2023
Favorite quote: “Run the first 2/3 of the race with your head, the last 1/3 with your heart.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I used to be a 100m hurdler; I was not great!
Why are you racing Detroit?: My family still lives in the Detroit area. My husband and I love to choose a half to train for together. I’ve never one this one and running internationally seems so fun!
Profession: Teacher
Instagram: @jamiemorrr
Personal best time: 1:18:28
Career highlights: NCAA XC National Runners Up, 2016. 800m Big Ten champion, 2018. 2 x USATF Champs qualifier.
Favorite quote: Get busy livin’ or get busy dyin’
Fun fact(s) about you: I am the only runner in my very large family of very talented athletes!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Needed some hometown energy to put some wind beneath my sails this training block. It’s been a childhood dream of mine to race Detroit!
Profession: Sports Dietitian
Instagram: @meredithdarcienutrition
Personal best time: 9:55 3k, 17:06 5k, 36:21 10k, 1:19:29 Half
Career highlights: Traveling the country with my UH XC/TF teammates – from Seattle and California to Drake and Penn Relays. Post-collegiately, being a proud member of the “Pizza Gals” who set the women’s course record in the Texas Independence Relay (~200mi relay) this March.
Favorite quote: “Keep showing up” -Des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: Every 4 years my birthday falls on Thanksgiving and it’s the best – just eating good food, being with family, and watching Lions football.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m excited to come home and escape the heat. Houston doesn’t have a fall, it’s just extended summer. I also have just recently started to really overcome some performance anxiety around running and have been able to simply enjoy setting goals for myself and competing! Looking forward to more of a “full-circle” moment to come back to the area where my love for running really took off.
