Grandma’s Marathon 2026 helped me create so many awesome memories that I’ll cherish for a long time. With it being the 50th anniversary, I wanted to make it extra meaningful, so I signed up for the Grandma’s Challenge and completed both the 5K and the full marathon. Let’s just say… they weren’t kidding when they called it a challenge.
This year was especially meaningful because Pa’lante Run Club (Pa’lante means “onwards” in Spanish) made the trip to Duluth together. Watching friends and family, many experiencing Grandma’s for the very first time, take on the 5K and the marathon was something I’ll never forget. Being able to run alongside them and celebrate every finish made every mile worth it.
Personally, this was my toughest marathon yet. I had completed Grandma’s before, but a flare-up of plantar fasciitis threw my training off, and I definitely felt it on race day. There were a few moments late in the race where I wondered how much I had left in the tank. Late in the marathon, a support bus came by a couple of times to check on runners and see if anyone needed a ride to the finish area. Honestly, every time it appeared, it felt like the shark fin from Jaws slowly getting a little closer. I kept thinking, “Not today.” Thankfully, I never needed the ride, but I genuinely appreciated knowing it was there. You never know how race day is going to unfold, and it reminded me how thoughtful Grandma’s Marathon is about taking care of every runner, whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply doing everything you can to cross the finish line.
As always, one of my favorite parts was the people. The neighbors lining the course, cheering on complete strangers for hours, are what make Grandma’s so special. And the signs… they never disappoint. Every year someone comes up with something that makes me laugh exactly when I need it most.
Another highlight was being invited to join the DE&I panel alongside other run club representatives. It was an engaging and thoughtful conversation about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome in the running community, and I’m grateful to Grandma’s Marathon for continuing to make room for conversations like that.
Grandma’s 2026 had everything: hard miles, great people, amazing weather, plenty of laughs, meaningful conversations, and another reminder that this event is about so much more than running. It’s about community.
Already looking forward to next year. More friends. More miles. More memories.
Pa’lante (Onwards)!
Elvis Rivera
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Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory: I ran Grandma’s Marathon for the first time in 2022, having tackled my first two marathons in 2020 and 2021. I’d heard of Grandma’s before, but as someone still pretty new to long-distance running, I had no idea it was such a big deal. Thinking I had plenty of time, I put off booking a hotel until three weeks before the race—rookie mistake! By then, everything was booked solid. Desperate, I turned to Airbnb and found…a tent. Yes, a literal tent in some generous stranger’s backyard. It wasn’t the Four Seasons, but hey, it had a zipper, and that’s all I needed, right? Fast forward to the night before the race—it was not exactly balmy, and I spent most of it tossing, turning, and regretting every life decision that led me to this moment. But, despite barely sleeping, I got up, laced up my shoes, and ran that marathon. It was an incredible experience and, let me tell you, a very valuable lesson learned: book early, or you’ll be “glamping” the night before 26.2 miles!
And here’s the update: it’s still my favorite Grandma’s memory…but apparently, I didn’t quite learn my lesson. In 2025, I found myself in a similar situation. This time it wasn’t a tent, but a tiny cabin smack in the middle of a huge open field. Sounds quaint, right? Well—here’s the kicker: no electricity. And the even bigger kicker? The night before the race, it poured like crazy. Great for sleeping, sure, but pitch-black conditions meant I stubbed my toes more times than I’d like to admit. And since the cabin had no restroom, I had the joy of trekking to a porta-potty in the middle of the night…through the rain…with thunder and lightning providing the soundtrack. So yes, lesson reinforced: don’t be like me—book early! Haha.
Quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: “Pa’lante, Siempre!” — Spanish for “Forward, Always!” This phrase embodies how I approach both running and life. Whether as a father, professional, volunteer, or friend, it reminds me that challenges are temporary, but resilience endures. Every step and every mile—metaphorically in life and literally on the course—is about moving forward with heart, no matter what.
Advice to other runners: Trust your training—your body knows more than your mind gives it credit for.
Favorite post-race beverage: An ice-cold beer—but honestly, the “pre–post-race” warm-ish sip in the last couple of miles is my favorite, thanks to the amazing spectators along the course. Grabbing a cup and sharing a playful cheers always gives me the extra oomph to finish strong!
Song that must be on your running playlist: Pachanga by JaySi, PLYBCK, DJ Laz.