We’re excited to announce our 2027 Grandma’s Marathon Ambassadors! They come from all over the country and represent so many of the different runners that make our race weekend and Grandma’s Marathon family special. Follow along on their training and their trip to the finish line in June 2027.
Registration for the 51st Annual Grandma’s Marathon Weekend Events opens on October 1, 2026, at 7 PM CT. You can register online here.
For more details about all the events that make up Grandma’s Marathon Weekend click below:
Grandma’s Marathon– Saturday, June 19, 2027
Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon– Saturday, June 19, 2027
William A Irvin 5K– Friday, June 18, 2027
Angie Andresen
Follow Her on: Instagram, Threads
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Going all the way back to the second ever Grandma’s when we watched our dad from the Lester River Bridge. I was so proud of my carefully crafted handmade signs!
Favorite pre-race meal: Race day I have an English Muffin with peanut butter and banana
Favorite post-race beverage: Milk shake from Portland Malt Shoppe
Running superstition: I never wear a race shirt until after I’ve finished that race
2026 running goal: Run year-round, but incorporate cross-training so I’m healthy and ready to line up at Grandma’s in June
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: Because I Can
Advice to other runners: Forward is a pace. The best thing you can do in life (or in training for a race) is just keep moving forward.
Rachel Barger
Follow Her on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: After 15 years of running Grandma’s, it is so hard to pick just one! Each year brings a new favorite memory but to name a few: my first ever marathon in 2014, running my now husband’s first ever race with him (half marathon) in 2018, the first Grandma’s after COVID (2021), and running the marathon with my dad (a 26 time Grandma’s Marathoner) in 2025.
Song that must be on your running playlist: My running playlist is the goofiest and most random thing you’ll ever hear! To prove it- my top two are Dream On and The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald…
Favorite pre-race meal: The Michelina’s Spaghetti Dinner of course!!!!
Running superstition: I try not to be too superstitious with running but I do always run in the far left side of the course. A tradition that was started the first time I ran Grandma’s so I would be closest to Lake Superior. I also say the same prayer while crossing the start line every race.
2027 running goal: After being sidelined in 2026 due to injury, my 2027 goal is simply to run the best race I can with healthy training. I just can’t wait to be out there again and see what I can do!
Advice to other runners: The distance is the same whether you come in first, last, or anywhere in the middle! Be proud of yourself and your accomplishments and celebrate every single step that got you to both the start line and the finish line!
Gladys Burkland
Follow Her on: Instagram
Ashley Daniels
Follow Her on: Instagram, Tiktok,Threads
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: running my half marathon PR on World Autistic Pride Day in 2022, and pacing my friend to her half PR in 2024!
Favorite pre-race meal: Kodiak dark chocolate pancakes and Welch’s fruit snacks
Favorite post-race beverage: a lime sparkling water or a zero sugar cherry Pepsi!
2027 running goal: to break 2 hours in the half marathon again!
Advice to other runners: meet yourself where you truly are and not where you expect yourself to be! My health journey especially in the last two years has taught me that. I used to be a 1:50 half marathon runner, and when I developed inappropriate sinus tachycardia, it was really hard for me to accept that I lost so much fitness because of that. But now that I meet myself where I am and not where I expect myself to me, I now have pre IST PRs and post IST PRs (and now even pre and post uterus PRs after both my hysterectomy and my emergency surgery) that help keep me motivated to keep going on my running journey!
Taylor Diaz
Follow Him on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: My favorite Grandma’s Marathon memory is really a collection of moments I’ve experienced through the people I love. I started my own running journey in 2026, but for years I watched friends and family build toward Grandma’s through the winter and spring. I saw the long runs, the breakthroughs, the rough training days, and the excitement that seemed to grow as June got closer. It’s no secret in the running community that it’s a race where people show up ready to chase big goals and, hopefully…a PR!! I loved cheering from the other side of that journey, following along on race day, and watching months of quiet work turn into one electric weekend. That is what makes being a Grambassador so meaningful to me. I’ve spent years experiencing the excitement of Grandma’s through other runners, and in 2027, I finally get to build toward that start line myself.
Song that must be on my running playlist: “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. It may be an obvious choice, but there is something about hearing it during a hard stretch of a run that always brings me back to why I started and reminds me that the process matters just as much as the finish line.
Favorite pre-race meal: PIZZA!!!!! I love any type of pizza (as long as it doesn’t have pineapples on it) 🙂
2027 running goal: Sub-4 in the marathon. 2026 has been about learning what I am capable of, from building toward my first Chicago Marathon to taking on New York shortly afterward. In 2027, I want to take everything those training cycles teach me and keep building. Grandma’s will be a major part of that next chapter, with Berlin also on my radar.
Advice to other runners: The running community is genuinely one of the most accepting, helpful, and kind communities I have ever experienced. Don’t be afraid to reach out, introduce yourself to the stranger at run club, or start a conversation with someone in your training group. Build those connections. When a run goes badly, chances are someone around you has been there before. When you are overthinking a race or doubting yourself, they may have exactly the advice or pep talk you need. Running can feel individual, but some of the best parts of it come from the people you meet along the way.
Robyn Granholm
Follow Her on: Instagram, Tiktok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon memory: My favorite memory is starting my training plan without even having an official bib for the race. I ran my first-ever half marathon in 2026, but because registration filled so quickly the previous October, I sadly didn’t get a bib.I didn’t let that stop me from training—or from searching high and low for a bib! I almost gave up, but after three weeks of training without one, I decided to make one final post saying I was still looking. Then, the magical moment happened: I got my bib! I ran my race and had so much fun along the way.
A quote that guides and embodies my training, racing, and life: “I don’t have to be the fastest—I just have to keep showing up, trusting God, and moving forward.”
A song that must be on my running playlist: I’m a HUGE mood runner, so it completely depends on what I feel like listening to that day. However, I’ve found that pop-punk is usually my go-to!
Favorite pre-race meal: Cajun Chicken Alfredo
2027 running goal: To incorporate cross-training early and consistently to help me reach my race goal of finishing in under 2:45.
Advice to other runners: Your pace doesn’t define your run—showing up when you don’t want to does. Every starting line proves you didn’t quit.
Three words that describe my training, racing, and life: Faith. Community. Adventure.
Ryn Haaversen
Follow Them on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon: I just moved to Duluth in May of 2024 and immediately engrossed myself in running and community. All of that came together for my 2025 Grandma’s Marathon. I kept seeing friends and community members along the entire course, both as supporters and fellow runners. Being known in your space truly fills the heart and I’m so happy it happened at Grandma’s. And maybe the 19 minute PR helped a little!
Song that must be on your running playlist: Stronger Than You Know by The East Pointers
Favorite pre-race meal: Anything rice based.
2027 running goal: Continue creating and growing inclusive and welcoming spaces for all types of runners!
Advice to other runners: Forward is a Pace. No matter how fast or slow you are going, the only thing that truly matters is showing up and moving forward.
Shannon Hogan
Follow Her on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Even after nine straight Grandma’s Marathons, I somehow make a new favorite memory every year, but 2026, the 50th Grandma’s will be hard to beat. Last year, I ran the Grandma’s Double: starting at the finish line in the wee hours of the morning, running the course in reverse to the start, then turning around to run the actual marathon. Moving through the deserted Duluth streets, watching the sun rise over Lake Superior, and being surrounded by a small community of fellow “doublers” was surreal. With no time goal to chase in the real race, I started towards the back and worked my way forward, talking with friends along the way and soaking in the energy. No focus on splits, just staying in the present. It ended up being my most fun Grandma’s yet, and I ended up running one of my fastest marathon times. It was a perfect reminder of why I wanted to run this marathon in the first place.
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough.
Song that must be on your running playlist: “Passenger” by Noah Kahan (anything from Noah Kahan, really).
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: I’ll run outside in anything-from a tropical storm to 100 degrees, you just have to dress for the occasion (thank you rain coat and ice bandana).
2027 running goal: For a long time, every run had to prove something; faster, farther, better. This year I’m not abandoning growth. I’m letting it come naturally. Less forcing, more flowing.
Advice to other runners: Fall in love with the process and the rest will fall into place.
Joanscott Hunter
Follow Her on: Instagram
Bradley Kaffar
Follow Him on: Instagram , Threads
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: The empowering feelings after finishing Grandma’s Marathon in both 2025 and 2026 are among my favorite and lasting memories. The marathon is a massive effort, but the “runner’s high” from endorphins plus dopamine provides so much joy from accomplishing an ambitious goal. Every section of the 26.2-mile course grinds me to bits, physically and emotionally – only to build me back up with even more resilience, more grit, and more pride! I wouldn’t want the experience to be any other way.
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: “My advice: keep showing up” by Des Linden keeps me focused on the accountability and resolve that are needed for successful training, racing, and life!
Favorite pre-race meal: My trusted race day breakfast is a hearty bowl of oatmeal, two hard-boiled eggs, and a cup of bold coffee. As a food-motivated runner, I always look forward to the post-race refueling and indulging!
2027 running goal: My goals for Grandma’s Marathon are to continue developing endurance, strength, and a “Marathon Mindset!”
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: Vitality, Authenticity, and Hustle
Advice to other runners: Meb Keflezighi once said, “Most of us have enough areas in our lives where we have to meet others’ expectations. Let your running be about your own hopes and dreams.” This is timeless advice, indeed. Best wishes, runners!
Erika Kelly
Follow Her on: Facebook, Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: In 2024, I briefly stepped off the road at mile 1, when I jumped back in I ended up right next to a friend I hadn’t seen in several years! And this was his first marathon! We ended up running together until mile 18 and it was the easiest and most fun miles either of us had maybe ever run; the miles had FLOWN by! He had been anxious about running his first marathon and was so grateful to have someone to run with for most of the race. It was such a blessing and I’m so grateful I got to guide him and help him cross his first marathon finish line! It’s not just my favorite Grandma’s memory, it’s easily one of my all time favorite race memories!
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: I have 2: “Run the mile you’re in” — and But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
Song that must be on your running playlist: anything by TobyMac, Phil Wickham, Tauren Wells or Forrest Frank!
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: lightning anywhere close!
Favorite pre-race meal: pasta with little bit of protein – I love going to Olive Garden!
Favorite post-race beverage: McDonalds Diet Coke!!!! McDonalds pop is THE BEST and I will die on this hill.
Running superstition: not really a superstition but I always eat some Cheetos with my breakfast on race day 😂
2027 running goal: to continue to stay injury free and hopefully break into the 4:30’s for a marathon PR!
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: thankful, grateful, blessed
Hannah Koch
Follow Her on: Instagram, Twitter Facebook, Tiktok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: There are endless special memories Grandma’s Marathon has given me in the last 10 years of running (in either the full or the half) or volunteering at the water stop before lemondrop hill in my childhood years. My favorite memory is crossing the finish line of my first Marathon while facetiming my Dad. He has Parkinson’s Disease and isn’t easily able to get down to the finish line. Sharing that moment with him is something I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. And of course, my favorite ongoing memory is every year, seeing my mom cheering for me in the bleachers. (Last year, I knew I wasn’t going to PR, so I took the time to stop and hug my mom before crossing. That was special- kind of a thank you for always being at the finish line for me). Turning the corner into the last 0.2 miles of the race, knowing she’ll be there, feels like coming home. And that’s what Grandma’s Marathon is to me: coming home.
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: “What a privilege it is to go for a run”
“The wall isn’t the end, it’s an invitation to meet yourself again”. And I have. Running has given me my most favorite version of myself.
Favorite post-race beverage:
Ice cold ginger ale, lemonade and cotton candy syrup mixed together
2027 running goal: Strength training !!!, Say hi to all the dogs I pass, stay healthy and keep showing up.
Tanya Koneczny
Follow Her on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: The Garry Bjorklund half in 2015. It was my first ever Grandma’s marathon weekend event. It rained the entire time, but I got to see my family along the course multiple times before the finish, as well as run a half PR. It’s the race that started my absolute love of Grandma’s, and the reason I’ve been back every year since.
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: Whether you think you can or you can’t, you’re right.
Song that must be on your running playlist: Get Up by Shinedown
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: Zombies or Sharknado
Favorite post-race beverage: Coffee cooler from Caribou Coffee
Advice to other runners: Believe in yourself, and you’re halfway there.
Tyler Kronstedt
Follow Him on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: My favorite Grandma’s memories were from this past year, it being my first ever Half Marathon! 1st was being able to be at the front of wave 2 and getting to start the race on the actual start line. It was very cool to be at the front and see it all open space! Still one of my favorite pictures I have. The other was coming down Canal and seeing my wife and our 2 little boys and friends in the bleachers cheering me on to the finish. I was very lucky to have a great support group to get me there!!
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: I have 2 that for me give the same vibes: “If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.” -Fred DeVito and the other was from Mark Dowdle on hour 93 of a Backyard Ultra- “Every step is evidence that the story in your mind is not true. FORWARD. FORWARD.” Both of these say to me that you can do hard things as long as you’re willing to push yourself and not give up! Running is physical but your mentality plays a massive part in every single step and effort.
Song that must be on your running playlist: During races I tend to lean more into Heavy Metal and faster paced music. My favorite song to get me hyped up is “Forgotten” by The Plot in You. I have a specific running playlist that is about 3.5 hours long and is all in that style of music to help push me through on race day. Otherwise I typically listen to podcasts on my day to day runs.
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: NONE. As long as you’re prepared you can run in any weather. I have run in -20 degrees and snowing and 90 degrees with ALL of the humidity. Just plan well and you can do it.
Favorite post race beverage: A nice crisp, cold beer from my favorite local brewery (Blacklist Brewing Co.!!!)
Advice for other runners: I am still a newer runner but my advice would be to enjoy the process. Not every run will be perfect. Not every step will feel great. But if you just stay with it, you will accomplish all that you want to and can. Race day is the reward for all the work you put in, so enjoy the entire day. From the early wake up alarm to the post race party! And take in the finish, don’t get caught up in worrying about your watch. Enjoy crossing that line and getting what you worked for. I get it “Strava or it didn’t happen”, but the watch can wait. You did the work, celebrate the payoff.
Angie Maske-Berka
Follow Her on: Instagram, Facebook, Blog, Blueksky
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Watching the finishers at the 2026 event.
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: Forward is a pace
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: ice or lightning
Favorite pre-race meal: Pasta, no sauce
2027 running goal: The return to the marathon, a series of injuries will not stop me!!
Advice to other runners: Run your own race and don’t compare yourself to others
Murunga Mohammed
Follow Him on: Instagram, Facebook
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: My favorite Grandma’s Marathon memory is crossing that finish line and thinking about how far running has taken me—not just around the world, but within myself. After completing all 8 World Marathon Majors, I’ve learned that every marathon has its own story, and Grandma’s was my first ever marathon. I remember the miles, the people, the energy, and that feeling of knowing I kept going when it would have been easier to stop. That’s what I love most about running: the finish line matters, but the person you become getting there matters even more.
Favorite pre-race meal:Pasta with grilled chicken
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life:Discipline. Resilience. Purpose.
Running superstition:I always take one quiet moment before the start to remind myself: I’ve done the work. Now go run.
Advice to other runners:Trust your training, respect the process, and don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Some days you’ll feel unstoppable; other days, simply showing up is the victory. Be patient, stay consistent, and remember—the goal isn’t just to become a faster runner, but a stronger person.
Jacob Oak
Follow Him on: Instagram , Facebook, Youtube
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: It truly feels like Grandma’s Marathon weekend gets better every year. 2026 was by far the best experience I have had in Duluth over the years. I had the wonderful opportunity to run the entire marathon with my lovely wife, Kailee Oak, and we had SO MUCH FUN the entire race. We arrived on Thursday last year and spent the entire weekend in Duluth, soaking it all up! From the Des and Kara Podcast on Thursday to the Mill City Running Sauna and Cold Plunge on Sunday and all the fun Grandma’s Marathon Weekend activities in between, including an incredible race experience! What stood out most was how happy everyone was to be there, surrounded by others striving to better themselves. In today’s world, I find that inspiring and extremely important. It was a blast and hands down my favorite weekend of last year and my favorite memory when I hear “Grandma’s Marathon Weekend.”
Song that must be on your running playlist: Safe and Sound by Capital Cities!
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: Bears
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: “We Get To.”
Advice to other runners: Don’t put so much pressure on yourself that you lose sight of why you are really running! What’s the point if it no longer is fun for you? (unless you’re getting paid to run I guess…)
Kailee Oak
Follow Her on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Being a finish line announcer with my husband and fellow Grambassador, Jacob Oak, during the 50th Grandma’s Marathon last year — right after we’d both completed the marathon ourselves! Truly a moment I’ll never forget. Announcing the names of runners coming across the finish line — the biggest smiles, hands held high, tears of joy — celebrating such a huge accomplishment was such an honor and so much fun.
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: We GET to do this! This saying inspired the name of my podcast with Jacob, We Get 2 Do This, and is a reminder I carry with me in running and in life—that movement is a privilege, and even on the hard days, I choose to show up with gratitude.
Song that must be on your running playlist: Numb/Encore by Linkin Park and JAŸ-Z
Favorite post-race beverage: An iced caramel or honey lavender latte with light ice
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: Resilient. Grateful. Joyful.
Advice to other runners: Have as much fun as you can with your training and on race day — it’s supposed to be fun! We GET to do this, and it’s such a privilege to be out there racing alongside so many incredible runners, seeing what our bodies and minds are capable of. When we shift into a mindset of gratitude, everything changes — from I have to to I get to. 🙂
Van Quach
Follow Him on: TikTok , Instagram, YouTube, Facebook
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: I ran my first-ever marathon at Grandma’s in 2024, and it didn’t go as planned. I hit cramps mid-race but still fought my way to the finish line, only to be escorted straight to the medical tent afterward. I spent over an hour there recovering (it was a rainy day, and some runners even suffered hypothermia). But the incredible volunteers, the warmth of the medical staff, and the electric energy of the crowd turned a brutal day into something unforgettable. Crossing that finish line felt less like the end of a race and more like a graduation — a celebration of months of grit and hard work. I’ve come back to run Grandma’s every year since. That’s part of why I love running so much. On the course, there’s no politics, no discrimination, just people. We’re all runners, all human, all chasing something bigger than ourselves. That sense of shared humanity is what keeps me coming back, mile after mile, year after year.
2027 Running Goal: My goal is to run a sub-2:45:00 marathon and time to qualify for the Berlin Marathon.
Advice to Other Runners: Always have an A goal, a B goal, and a C goal — with your B goal being the most realistic. Chasing something harder will only push your reach and your accomplishments further than just doing the bare minimum.
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: Gritty. Grateful. Growing.
Caitlin Quinn
Follow Her on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Last year I ran the full marathon with my husband Tommy! It was his first marathon and we ran together the whole time! He was a great motivator!
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: My joy is in the way I choose to think” – Ms Rachel
Song that must be on your running playlist:I love listening to audiobooks when I run! Some of my favorite books to listen to while running recently have been: The First Law Trilogy, Dungeon Crawler Carl, and The Raven Scholar.
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: Bad AQI! Take care of your lungs and skip the outside run when the air is harmful.
Favorite pre-race meal: Basic bagel with peanut butter
Favorite post-race beverage: An ice cold beer
2027 running goal: Every year I try to run more miles than the year before! This year I hope to get a little faster too!
Advice to other runners: No one cares about your pace but you!
Bekah Read
Follow Her on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Running my first marathon postpartum alongside my sister-in-law, who was completing her first 26.2. We crossed the finish line and I was completely exhausted, so proud of her, and full of emotion for what I had accomplished with a one- and two-year-old. That race reminded me that I can do hard things, even in the middle of motherhood and messy seasons.
Three Words to Describe Your Training: Scrappy, Purposeful, Faith-Fueled
Advice to Other Runners: You don’t have to wait for life to calm down before chasing a big goal. Whether you’re running between nap times or late-night deadlines, every mile matters. Keep showing up, give yourself grace, and trust the process. You’re stronger than you think.
Quote That Guides or Inspires You: “Progress over perfection.”
Sam Read
Follow him on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Growing up going to watch my dad and other family members run Grandma’s, camping at Jay Cooke State Park, and then finally getting my own turn to run it right after graduating college.
Song That Has to Be on Your Playlist: “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” by Cage the Elephant
Why You Absolutely Won’t Run Outside: My bed is too cozy.
2027 Running Goal: Break 5 in the mile (for the 23rd year in a row)
Kyle Reini
Follow Him on: Instagram,TikTok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: The one that sticks out the most is my first time breaking 3 hours. I had been aiming for it for a few marathons and felt like I was getting further away and not closer. The day of the race was a bit of a blur but I remember turning onto Canal Park coming under the overpass and looking at my watch realizing I would have to go pedal to the metal in order to make it. I sprinted the last stretch and made it then collapsed at the line. A volunteer at the finish snapped a picture of me on all fours crying because he could tell it meant so much, it’s one of my favorite race pictures to this day. I am so glad Grandmas was the first race to break 3.
Song the must be on your running playlist: The Man by Aloe Blacc. It gives me a bit of a confidence boost on my runs and reminds me to be myself and to be proud of it, also gives me encouragement that I am stronger and more capable than I think.
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.” – Steve Prefontaine. I like this quote because in races you run against other people but you truly are competing against yourself. I want to be the best me that I can so I want to give my best to not sacrifice what I can become.
Three words to describe training, racing, or life: Patience, trust, and love. Great things don’t come overnight, they come through patience, trusting the process, and expressing love and gratitude for opportunities and the people that got you there.
Quinlan Riffenburg
Follow Him on: Instagram, Tiktok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Grandma’s 2026 was my first ever marathon. Crossing that finish line for the first time was something I’ll never forget. The crowd support, the views, and the amount of runners around you at the starting line was something unlike anything else. Everything about the event is so well organized and is truly something that everyone needs to experience at least once. I immediately knew that this event was one I wanted to make a tradition of every year and I’m so excited to be able to represent as a GRAMbassador!
Please provide answers to at least three or four of the questions below:
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: “I can do hard things”
Song that must be on your running playlist: Vampire by Olivia Rodrigo
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: I’m a treadmill runner in the winter… I hate running outside when it’s too cold.
Favorite pre-race meal: Spaghetti!
Favorite post-race beverage: Coca-Cola
2027 running goal: To run a sub 4hour marathon!
Advice to other runners: TAKE YOUR REST DAYS!!!
Elvis Rivera
Follow Him on: Instagram, Linkedin
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: It seems like my favorite Grandma’s Marathon memory keeps getting outdone every year, which probably says a lot about how much fun I have during Grandma’s weekend! This year, though, feels especially hard to beat. I first ran Grandma’s on my own back in 2022. Four years later, I returned for the 50th anniversary alongside about eight members of a small run club I helped start. Seeing something that began with my own love of running grow into a community of people training, traveling, and taking on Grandma’s together was pretty special. My family also came up for the weekend, including my little nieces. As I approached the finish line to complete the Grandma’s Challenge, after already taking on the full marathon, my three-year-old niece started running alongside me from the sidelines for those final few feet. That moment captured what Grandma’s has become for me. What started as my own running journey now has a community around it, and my family is part of it too. Experiencing that during the 50th anniversary made it even more meaningful. And knowing Grandma’s, I’ll probably have a new favorite memory next year!
Three words to describe my training, racing, or life: Resilient. Relentless. Pa’lante (Translates to Onward in Spanish. And yes, technically I’m cheating because it’s a contraction of two words lol).
Song that must be on my running playlist: Taste by Tyga
Advice to other runners: Run your own race. It doesn’t matter how fast you get there, just keep moving forward.
Taryn Robertson
Follow Her on: Facebook, Instagram, Threads
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: My favorite Grandma’s Marathon memory is the year I came back from a major injury. A few years ago, I broke my leg badly, and the only thing that got me through 3½ months in a boot was knowing that Grandma’s was still on the line!
Training while going through PT—and barely being able to bend my ankle—was no joke. But somehow, I did it.
That year was even more special because my grandfather was turning 90, so my family came to Duluth to celebrate. My (now) husband, grandmother, and grandfather rode the train along the marathon route, and as we took off, I got to wave to them through teary eyes. I was already an emotional mess before I even crossed the starting line!
Throughout the race, I kept wondering: Could I do this? Would I finish? How much pain would I be in? Would I make my grandparents proud? They wanted so badly to see me cross that finish line.
And then there were the crowds.
The crowds along the Grandma’s Marathon route never disappoint. Every time I stopped, people cheered, hollered, and encouraged me to keep going. When my legs and mind were telling me to stop, the crowd seemed to carry me forward.
I’ll never, ever forget coming across that finish line and being greeted by three of my favorite people—all of them crying.
My grandparents and husband had tears streaming down their faces, and I was sweating, snotting, and weeping with joy right along with them.
After everything it took to get there, crossing that finish line was one of the most emotional moments of my life. I’ll never forget that day.
That’s what makes Grandma’s so incredibly special to me. It isn’t just the race or the course—it’s the people. The runners, the spectators, the volunteers, and the loved ones cheering from the sidelines. They make you feel like you’re part of something bigger, and that day, they carried me all the way to the finish.
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: What comes up must come down! I ALWAYS think about this when I’m running hills. And for long runs, I tell myself, “you’ve gotta go through it to get through it!” And when I’m tired, exhausted, want to stop, and want to give up, I repeat, “you can do hard things, you can do hard things” over and over.
Song that must be on your running playlist: Mama Said, by Lukas Graham; Do You Know, by Enrique Iglesias; Doses & Mimosas, by Cherub; Raising Hell, by Kesha.
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: I HATE running on the treadmill, so if I can’t run outside, it must be pretty bad! I’ve run through rain and snowstorms, but extreme heat, but if there’s wildfire smoke outside, absolutely count me out.
Favorite pre-race meal: Tavern on the Hill for Macaroni and Cheese pizza with ranch! Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it; it combines my two favorite foods!
Favorite post-race beverage: MIMOSAS! Or an ice cold beer!
Running superstition: It’s bad luck to wear your race shirt on race day!
2027 running goal: I’ve been through an incredible amount of life changes this year with career shifts and cross country relocations. All good things, but running went to the wayside. My running goal for 2027 is to enjoy the journey and reclaim my joy in marathoning.
Brent Silkey
Follow Him on: Instagram, TikTok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Completing my first marathon in 2010! There is something incredibly fulfilling about working really hard toward a goal and doing something you’ve never done before to achieve it!
Favorite Pre-Race Meal: A sandwich with the following ingredients: fresh, homemade sourdough bread, grilled chicken, mozzarella cheese, and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes.
Quote that inspires me: Marathons don’t become easier, you become stronger and more familiar with the discomfort of progress.
Favorite Post-Race Beverage: Large Caribbean Passion Jamba Juice
Advice to other runners: Silence the voice of comparison so you can run your best race!
Abi Strand
Follow Her on: Instagram, Tiktok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Everything! Grandma’s Marathon was my first-ever marathon in June 2026, and for that reason, it will always be so special to me! The course is beautiful, and the crowd is absolutely amazing. I’ll never forget the moment I crossed that finish line after months of training. The running community is so supportive, even in the Facebook group! You’ll see people sharing tips, encouragement, and motivation all the time, and it was so helpful going into my first marathon when I had no idea what to expect.
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: Wind. I absolutely hate wind!
Favorite pre-race meal: The night before, I always eat pasta with chicken. I like to keep things simple, and I know it works!
Favorite post-race beverage: After every long run, I love to treat myself to an iced coffee! An iced vanilla latte with almond milk always tastes great!
Advice to other runners: Trust your training and don’t underestimate the power of consistency! Not every run will feel great, and that’s okay. Keep showing up, take it one run at a time, and remember to have fun on your race to the finish line!
Mandy Tollerud
Follow Her on: Instagram, Tiktok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: I ran Grandma’s for the first time in 2026 with my sister Angela. It was my very first full marathon, something I had set as a goal for myself after finding my way back to running a few years ago. I am so thankful I chose this marathon to be my first (and so far only) experience with 26.2 miles. The course is extremely beautiful and the spectators and volunteers were incredible! We had our names printed on the front of our shirts and when the going got tough during the final miles, hearing our names from people cheering us on, fueled us to push and finish strong!
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. -Philippians 4:13
Song that must be on your running playlist: The Goodness of God by Jenn Johnson- this song came on during a very tough moment at mile 19. I was hurting, my stomach was upset and I knew that Lemondrop Hill was coming up soon. Hearing this song, it felt like such a spiritual moment. I started singing loudly (I am not much of a singer) and lifted my hands up in gratitude that I got to be out there, running with my sister and so many others who were going after their own goals and dreams. I didn’t care that my voice wasn’t perfect and you know what no one else did and some even joined in in singing it with me! I get chills when I think about this moment!
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: I take pride in showing grit and running in all types of weather but even this Minnesota girl has her limits! I don’t run outside when it’s -10* or above 90* (in high humidity)
Favorite post-race beverage: This is a tough one, I am torn between two- I love an ice-cold bottle of chocolate milk immediately after a race. But once I have come down from my runners high, a steaming hot cup of Caribou coffee with a shot of caramel can’t be beat.
2027 running goal: To stay healthy and ready to take on 26.2 again in June!
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: Gratitude, Grit, and Growth
Advice to other runners: For the first time marathoners out there. Running a marathon is about proving to yourself that you can do something that you didn’t think was possible. It’s about 26.2 miles of thinking and believing – “I can and I will.” It’s about being grateful for every single mile you get to do! It’s about crossing that finish line and knowing, I can do hard things. Train smart, build slowly, listen to your body and most importantly, BELIEVE that you can! I promise it’s going to change your life in ways you can’t even imagine right now. It’s hard, but it’s so worth it! I’ll see you at the finish line on June 19!
Tyler Trettin
Follow Her on: Instagram, Titkok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: My favorite Grandma’s memory was running Grandma’s for the first time, before Grandma’s I only did smaller half marathons and the amount of support and people at Grandma’s made me fall in love with it.
Song that must be on your running playlist: Don’t bring me down by electric light orchestra
Favorite pre-race meal: a banana, two Bobo’s pb&j grape, and an alani (preferably witches brew)
Favorite post-race beverage: a CRISPY diet dr pepper
Kelsey Uribe
Follow Her on: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: Last year, I got to run the entire course with my dear friend Colleen, who has easily been part of over 15 Grandma’s Marathon weekends. Most importantly, she is one of those special people who makes you feel like the very best version of yourself when you are around her (even moreso when running the very humbling marathon distance, on the most beautiful course running along the North Shore). From the emotional starting line emotions as we joined the thunder of thousands of runner footsteps, to enjoying the sights of waves along the shore and light filtering through the trees, to dancing along the side of Hwy 61 with strangers while a spectator band plays, to gratefully accepting watermelon from Duluth residents, to seeing friends by the William A. Irvin, to crossing the finish line together with arms outstretched, it was the BEST race day ever! Everyone should experience Grandma’s at least once, and better yet, experience it with someone you love! I am smiling just thinking about it!
Favorite pre-race meal: Morning of, graham crackers with peanut butter + a banana.
Favorite post-race beverage: Chocolate milk!
Song that must be on your running playlist: Bad Bunny – NUEVAYoL (or Tití Me Preguntó)
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: Kid schedules and joy with family and friends! If saying yes to an adventure during the day means I am on the treadmill at night, it is worth it.
2027 running goal: Work hard, have fun, and make sure not to let race-day nerves take away from race day being a celebration of all it took to arrive at the start line. I am also signing up to pace a lot more races, and helping other runners meet their goals is one of the most rewarding aspects of running.
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: Determined, grateful, optimistic
Advice to other runners: Keep chasing the best version of yourself, and stay rooted in your “why.” Running (and movement in general!) is such a great opportunity to get curious about your potential in all areas of life. On race day- be sure to thank a volunteer. They make the magic possible.
Jamie Vesel
Follow Him on: Instagram, Facebook
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: In 2008 I ran the the Gary Bjorklund Half Marathon for the first time. I was just beginning my journey as a runner and had no idea what I was doing or what I was getting into. I had run my first 5K the year before and had a lot of fun doing it. At that point, I thought, “Maybe I can actually do this.” The pure excitement of learning that I can be a runner was amazing! During the race, I made so many mistakes that I would later learn how to correct. Nutrition, training, pacing, etc. I still work on each of these but have learned how to plan ahead.
A quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: “Love life. Engage in it. Give it all you’ve got. Love it with a passion because life truly does give back, many times over, what you put into it.” – Maya Angelou
A song that must be on your running playlist: Danceteria by Madonna. I must have Kylie Minogue, Madonna, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, and Janet Jackson on the playlist.
The reason you absolutely won’t run outside: if it’s -10 or more or above 90 degrees.
Favorite post-race beverage: chocolate milk
2027 running goal: I’m going for a PR this year! I’m also planning to run with friend and co-grambassador Kelsey Uribe!!
Three words to describe your training, racing, or life: endure, celebrate, repeat
Caitlin Wachsmuth
Follow Her on: Instagram, Tiktok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: It’s hard to pick one! My first half marathon was such a fun and awesome experience because it was somewhat spontaneous. I decided late that year that I wanted to try a half marathon, picked up a charity bib, and got to training! We drove up that morning from Wisconsin and it felt like such an insane thing to do, leaving at 3am and then having a bus drive me 13 miles away from the finish line. But I ran my fastest time (still!) and had such an incredible day. It inspired me to run a full marathon at Grandma’s the following year.
Favorite post-race beverage: The chocolate milk at the end of the race is incredible every time.
Three words to describe your training, race, or life: Try new things!
Song that must be on your running playlist: Transdermal Celebration by Ween
2027 running goal: Get faster but don’t get hurt!
Finn Youberg
Follow Him On: Instagram
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: This was my first time running the Full Marathon and all my friends and family sat at the Sherwin Williams right after Lemon Drop Hill. It was so fulfilling to see everyone who came out to support me in a journey that I was about to complete.
2027 Running Goal: Run sub 2:35 at Grandmas 2027
Advice to Other Runners: Make sure that you are always having fun when you are running, the miles go by faster and the time goes by faster when you are having fun and with others. Burn out happens from forcing yourself to run those miles. listen to your body, It won’t ruin your training block by taking an extra day or 2 off of running. Staying healthy is the best way to run a fast race.
Favorite post race beverage: Ice cold beer from the beer tent
Favorite Pre- race Meal: Pasta and meatballs with ceasar salad
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory(non Full marathon): Winning the Minnesota Mile. It was such a fun experience because Enger is one of my favorite places to run around. You see all parts of beautiful Duluth. The harbor on one side and the industrial part on the other, I find a lot of beauty in the industrial part of Duluth. It is also an honor to be on the list of champions with legend and world record holder Josh Kerr.
Maggie Yuhas
Follow Her on: Instagram, Facebook
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon memory: Some of my favorite Grandma’s memories have been as a volunteer at the finish line. It’s so rewarding to see athletes crush their goals and finish their race.
Song that must be on your running playlist: I love listening to EDM or 2000s throwbacks. Recently, I’ve been listening to Never Say Never by Justin Bieber on repeat.
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: I despise winter running and tend to do most of my runs at an indoor track if there’s fresh snow or ice
Favorite pre-race meal: Tons of fried rice
Favorite post-race beverage: Always a crispy Coke, it tends to be the only thing on my mind for the last few miles of a marathon
2027 running goal: BQ (hopefully on the Grandma’s course) and stay injury free!
Advice to other runners: Go to a group shakeout run the weekend of Grandma’s! I went to my first one a couple years ago and met some new friends who I ended up spotting at the marathon start line. It was a super fun way to meet new people and feel connected!