As my time as a Grambassador comes to a close, I’ve been thinking about what Grandma’s Marathon has meant to me over the years. I’ve experienced race weekend from just about every perspective. I’ve run the full marathon, completed the Grandma’s Challenge, run the half marathon 10 times, raced several William A. Irving 5Ks, volunteered, and this year, I found myself spectating.
One of the moments that brought everything full circle was cheering on my son’s girlfriend and her friend as they completed their first Grandma’s Half Marathon. They’ve spent countless weekends hanging out in our basement over the years. I watched them navigate the ups and downs of middle school, high school, and even the COVID years together. Seeing the two of them become confident young women crossing their first Grandma’s finish line was a reminder that this race continues to inspire the next generation of runners.
My two boys and I spent the morning chasing them along the course with homemade signs, cheering from more than one spot before making our way to the finish line. My oldest is 22, my youngest is 8, and sharing the day with both of them was pretty special. My youngest proudly held a Power Up sign, and I lost count of how many runners reached out to give it a high five as they passed. One of the things I’ve always loved most about Grandma’s Marathon weekend is the spectators. From start to finish, people line the course to encourage family, friends, and even complete strangers.
Eventually, we made our way to the finish line. Standing there, watching the back of the half marathon pack come in alongside the elite marathoners gave me goosebumps. Different races. Different goals. Same finish line. We all belong.
As the afternoon went on, another moment stuck with me. Hours after the elite marathoners had finished, the final marathon runners were still making their way down Canal Park. The crowds were still cheering, volunteers were still celebrating, and families were still waiting to welcome their runners across the finish line. That’s Grandma’s Marathon.
Running has a way of reminding people that they belong exactly where they are. Fast or slow. First or last. Everyone gets a place at the starting line, and everyone deserves a place at the finish line. I’ve carried that lesson into other parts of my life. Over the last year, I’ve been reminded how important it is to spend my time in places that bring me joy, challenge me in the right ways, and make me feel valued. Grandma’s Marathon has always been one of those places.
I’m grateful for the miles, the memories, and the people who have made this experience so meaningful. Grandma’s Marathon has given me so much over the years, and I have no doubt our paths will cross again. Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of a community that celebrates every runner, including those of us in the back of the pack.
Carrie Alajoki
Follow Her on: Instagram, Tiktok
Favorite Grandma’s Marathon memory: I have so many memories, which is exactly why I love being a Grambassador and sharing all things Grandma’s. My newest favorite has to be running the William A. Irvin 5K with my 8-year-old last year. He was so proud of himself. At one point he said, “Mom, look at me, I am the baby of the family and here I am with you.” That moment is one I’ll never forget.
A quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: My favorite quote is “I’m where I belong sir” from the Top Gun Maverick movie. For me, that means the back of the pack. It’s where I find community, grit, and joy in running. My focus is on showing up, staying steady, and reminding others that every runner, every pace, and every finish line matters.
Songs that must be on your running playlist: “This Is Me” and “From Now On” from The Greatest Showman always give me a boost, and Sia’s Unstoppable is a must-have. I mix in Calvin Harris’ Feel So Close, plenty of Pitbull, and some Eminem. Add in country, 80’s rock, and current hits — my playlist is as all-over-the-map
Reasons you wouldn’t run outside: I honestly don’t have a reason NOT to run outside, unless there’s lightning. I run through just about everything else. Cold winter days? Bundle up and go. Piles of snow? I’ve got pictures of me out there covered head to toe after a storm. Summer heat doesn’t bother me either. In fact, my favorite runs are around 2:00 in the afternoon when it’s the hottest part of the day. I’ve got plenty of photos from runs in 80–90 degree weather. I wouldn’t suggest it for long training runs, but I love a hot afternoon short run — it’s just part of the fun of running outside year-round.
Advice to other runners: Grandma’s is an event for every runner. The spectators and community will cheer you on like you’re in first place. My best advice, whether it’s at Grandma’s or any other race, is to run your own race. Don’t compare yourself to others. Your journey, your pace, and your finish line are what matter