Laurie Allen found her inspiration in an unlikely place—her son, Tyler. Although Tyler was a varsity athlete in high school, running wasn’t always his favorite activity. While playing baseball, he had a habit of hitting the ball hard and then taking his time around the bases, earning him the nickname “Wheels” as his older brother cheered him on from the stands. Years later, Tyler’s running journey took a different direction. He recently completed his 7th marathon, and his dedication inspired Laurie to ask how she could take on a marathon herself. His advice was simple: “One mile at a time.” At 60 years old, Laurie decided to take her first step into the running world by completing her first race—a 5K. Not only did she cross the finish line, but she also earned 3rd place 🥉 in her age group. For Laurie, this race was about more than a result. It was about following inspiration, trying something new, and proving that it’s never too late to start your own running journey. With a little motivation from “Wheels” and a commitment to take it one mile at a time, Laurie is just getting started.

Running changed Adam’s life in ways he never imagined. In high school and college, Adam weighed over 300 pounds. Wanting to improve his health and with the hope of one day becoming a father, he decided it was time to make a change. What started as a commitment to get healthier gradually became a passion that transformed his life. Today, Adam is the proud dad of two boys, and one of his greatest joys is knowing they get to watch him accomplish things he once thought were impossible. From crossing finish lines to taking on new running challenges, every mile is a reminder of how far he’s come. For Adam, running has always been about more than fitness. It’s about setting an example, showing his sons that hard work, perseverance, and consistency can completely change the course of your life. The person who once struggled with his health is now inspiring the next generation through every race he runs. His journey is proof that it’s never too late to rewrite your story, and that the finish lines you never thought possible might just be the beginning of something even greater.

Ellisen Hall never considered herself a runner, but sometimes all it takes is the right encouragement to discover what you’re capable of. After having her second child, Ellisen joined an active moms’ group in 2024. Last winter, her friend Audrionna, who leads Mom Run Club, encouraged her to start running through intervals with the group. Those small steps quickly turned into a personal goal: complete her first 5K. With another exciting chapter ahead, Ellisen is currently 16 weeks pregnant with her third and fourth babies. Knowing life was about to get even busier, she decided to accomplish this goal before things changed once again. On race day in downtown Coeur d’Alene, Ellisen crossed the finish line in under 40 minutes, accomplishing something she once never imagined doing. More than just a race result, it was a reminder of the strength, resilience, and determination she carries with her. For Ellisen, running became about more than miles. It was about believing in herself, celebrating what her body can do, and taking on a challenge one step at a time. Her first 5K is a milestone she’ll always remember—and a reminder that new beginnings can happen at any stage of life.