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.

Chantell ran her second Spokane Marathon 10K this year, turning a personal challenge into a meaningful journey with her fiancé, Huntter. They’re getting married in 2026, and one of their New Year’s resolutions for 2025 was to do hard things, especially together. Running became a part of that commitment, along with Bloomsday earlier in the year, where Doomsday Hill reminded them just how humbling running can be. What Chantell loves most about running is the mental challenge, pushing through discomfort and overcoming obstacles within herself. She and Huntter started training with intervals of one minute running, one minute walking, gradually building up to three to four miles a day. The approach helped them stay consistent while avoiding injury or burnout. Race day brought rain, but the support from volunteers throughout the course carried them through, especially during the final mile near Hello Sugar, where encouragement and snacks helped Chantell push to the finish line. Chantell and Huntter plan to be back next year, with hopes of tackling the half marathon and maybe even a full marathon together. For Chantell, running isn’t just fitness, it’s growth, perseverance, and sharing meaningful moments with the people she loves.

Ben has been running Bloomsday for the past ten years, but this year was different, he trained seriously for his first marathon. Growing up with asthma, long runs and endurance sports were always a challenge, and past attempts at marathon training didn’t stick. But revisiting his asthma with a specialist and starting a twice-daily inhaler changed everything, giving him the breath and confidence to tackle longer distances. In the summer of 2025, Ben began training alongside his friend (also named Ben) for the Spokane Marathon. Almost every weekend brought a new personal achievement, with miles longer than anything he had ever run before. The course was challenging, especially the hills and Doomsday at mile 22, but the views along the Spokane River and throughout the city kept him motivated. Crossing the finish line after running the entire marathon was unforgettable. Ben says the experience gave him a new respect for distance runners and a sense of pride in what his body is capable of. He’s grateful for the support from course volunteers and can’t wait for more miles ahead!

Leslie discovered running during COVID as a much-needed outlet. She had run Bloomsday in high school and stayed active in sports but never really considered herself a runner until she needed a solo workout and a reason to get out of the house. She quickly fell in love with pushing her own limits and discovering her edge. Her journey hasn’t been easy. A freak accident left Leslie with a broken leg at the peak of her training. Learning to walk and run again was tough, but running became more than physical—it became a mental challenge. She focused all her energy on the goal of completing a half marathon and used it to fuel her recovery. Leslie joined the Fleet Feet running club for support and accountability, connecting with others who had overcome injuries. The Spokane Marathon became her first half marathon, a personal challenge she quietly pursued. The course tested her with sneaky hills from People’s Park to the Centennial Trail, but she embraced every step. Eighteen months after surgery, Leslie crossed the finish line, proud of her recovery and perseverance. She wants anyone recovering from an injury to know that consistency, patience, and trust in your body can take you far. For Leslie, running is resilience, growth, and a story of triumph she’ll carry with her always.

Karen’s running journey began in high school, competing in both cross country and indoor track. She loved being outside, staying active, and connecting with friends, and that passion has only grown over the years. After college, she ran her first marathon and has since completed every standard distance up to 100 miles. For Karen, distance running is more than just exercise, it’s a way to explore new places, dream up routes, and see the world in a fresh light. This past October, Karen ran the Spokane Marathon, her first marathon since giving birth to her daughter Kestrel in April. She also has a three-year-old son, and balancing training with two young kids can be challenging. Still, running remains a vital part of her mental and physical health, helping her show up as the best mom she can be. After receiving the green light from her doctor postpartum, Karen found running to be a way to reconnect with her “old self” and enjoy moments of quiet reflection. Karen loves the Spokane Marathon course for its fall foliage, scenic river canyon views, and the perfect balance of camaraderie and space on the course. Even in cold and wet conditions this year, she was lifted by cheering volunteers and high school teams at the aid stations. She looks forward to returning and hopes to inspire her kids to run one day too. Karen is proud to be a mother runner and a lifelong runner at heart.

This year has been a big one for Liberty, her very first year running, and the Negative Split Half Marathon has made the journey unforgettable. Her first race was the stunning Coeur d’Alene Half Marathon, and the gorgeous course instantly captured her heart. Running holds deep meaning for Liberty. Her Grandma, one of her biggest supporters, prayed every day that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. Even while living with multiple sclerosis, her Grandma stayed active, walking outside daily with her Grandpa. She showed Liberty the importance of appreciating every step we can take and never taking movement for granted. Though her Grandma passed away in March from cancer, Liberty continues to run in her honor, celebrating the gift of a moving body for those who can’t. The Spokane Marathon was a milestone for Liberty, her first marathon ever. It was a tough course, but crossing the finish line in just under 7 hours, accompanied by a song her mom requested and cheered on by incredible volunteers, was an experience she’ll never forget. While she didn’t snap a photo at the finish, her first race finish photo from 2025 captures the excitement and pride of her journey. For Liberty, running isn’t just a sport. It’s a tribute, a celebration of life, and a reminder to cherish every step. She’s already looking forward to more miles in 2026.

Carol has been running for over 17 years, but it wasn’t always something she enjoyed. In fact, she once believed running was one of the worst things for your body. That perspective changed when her walking partner was injured, and walking alone just didn’t feel the same. What started as a simple shift from walking to running soon became something much more powerful. During a challenging time filled with family struggles, running became a source of healing and clarity. It turned into a mental and emotional outlet, helping her process, cope, and grow stronger. The more she ran, the better she felt. As Carol says, “I run to burn off the crazy,” a phrase that perfectly captures her journey. Over the years, running has grown into a true passion. She’s completed many half marathons, with the Windermere Half Marathon standing out as one of her favorites thanks to its scenic river views and beautiful park finish. As a wife and mom, Carol values running as her time to reset and recharge. While she’s noticed changes that come with age and sometimes feels the challenge of slowing down, she chooses to focus on gratitude. She’s thankful for the ability to keep running and for the gift of health that allows her to continue doing what she loves. For Carol, running isn’t about pace. It’s about perseverance, healing, and appreciating every mile.

Meet Christina! She started running in her twenties as a way to care for herself and embrace a new challenge. What began as an occasional outlet quickly grew into something much more meaningful. The Windermere Half Marathon holds a special place in her journey. With its gentle, scenic course and incredibly supportive community, it’s become one of her favorite races and distances. Christina has completed it three times, once in person in 2018, once virtually during COVID in 2020, and again this year following her strongest training cycle yet. As a busy working mom and wife, running has become Christina’s dedicated “me time.” It’s where she finds balance, relieves stress, and reconnects with herself. For Christina, every mile is a reminder of strength, consistency, and the importance of making time for you.