Melissa Wood - Ambassador Team Manager

Running is my opportunity to spend time outside, to get some fresh air, enjoy the sunshine, and to breathe! I love running races and meeting other runners. In recent years I’ve “fallen off” of my running habit as I’ve been spending a lot of time in the gym (perhaps this year I’ll find the perfect balance of both). For the 2024-2025 season I hope to get back out to a few more races (either running or volunteering), and to hit up a few run clubs in the Metro area!

Favorite race distance: Historically, the half marathon, but I’m working to enjoy the shorter distances more as well – hopefully this year I’ll learn to love the 10k distance!

Spot me at these races: Colfax 2025, of course… and before that, it’s all TBD!

Playing through my headphones: Might be an audio book, may be a super-random playlist, could be one of the Two Friends Big Bootie Mixes… or sometimes <<gasp>> I might go sans-headphones!!

On my plate for a post-race meal: I’m all over the place with what I crave, but 9 times out of 10 it ends up being a buffalo burger with pepperjack cheese and avocado…and of course a HUGE side of fries! Or tacos. I will say YES to tacos 100% of the time!!!

My special race-day ritual: First I hope beyond hopes that I wake up on time & get my bum outta the door timely (there have been more than a handful of races that I’ve run straight from the car to cross the start line)! But if I do it all right, the day starts with a calm little walk with my super-senior doggo, Maggie, then it’s time to don the running gear, grab the headphones, and get to the race where I get to see FRIENDS!! And, no matter how the morning goes, food with friends and a solid nap post-race!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Since there are so many race options for Colfax, make sure you pick the right race for you! Know what you want out of it (speed, sights, fun, etc.) and take a gander at what each race has to offer. Then sign up & put in the miles. And, no matter how your race rolls out, find a way to enjoy the party – both on course and after at the park!!!

Anthony Clark

A born and raised professional aviation nerd from New Jersey, by way of the DC metro area. I enjoy spending time checking out Denver’s newest food and drink locations. Primarily, I work in research and innovation at Denver International Airport. Outside of the realm of aviation, I am the founder and photographer at The 16,000 Studio. Of course, I LOVE running alongside other amazing humans as much as possible. Shout-out to The Sticky Run Club!

Favorite race distance: Half-marathon

Spot me at these races: As of August 2024 – Boulderthon 2024, 2025 Denver Colfax Marathon

Playing through my headphones: F****n’ Up the Disco, Justin Timberlake.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Run me ALL the fries and a Modelo!

My special race-day ritual: Chomping on some Honey Stingers and listening to music until the race begins.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Enjoy the moment. The end!

Allison Riley

On land I’m a runner; in the water I’m a dragon boat athlete. I also work for a fitness technology company, so exercise stays on my mind 24/7! Dragon boating taught me how to be a strong teammate, while running taught me how to be strong for myself. Conquering one mile at a time has helped me get through challenging seasons of life.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Colfax Half Marathon, Hapalua Half Marathon in Hawaii, Disneyland Half Marathon, Bolder Boulder 10K, Boulder Rez Half or 10K

Playing through my headphones: “…Ready For It?” by Taylor Swift

On my plate for a post-race meal: A 12″ spicy club from Cheba Hut with all the veggies. And a giant chocolate chip cookie.

My special race-day ritual: My 2000’s pop punk playlist for the early morning drive. At 6am there’s nothing better than scream-singing the songs I loved as a teenager.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Appreciate the journey. Be in the moment instead of worrying about the finish. If you pass another runner, give them something to keep going whether it’s a high five or a “You’ve got this!”. If you see a photographer, smile, wave, jump, have fun with it! We have a beautiful city – take it in!

Andres Murguia

Running has always been a part of my life, but I have spent the past couple of years really focusing on long-distance races. Throughout the year you can usually find me with my best friends running through City Park or Cheesman Park. I am very active on Strava (I am determined to be crowned king of City Park some day), and I really enjoy meetups with different local running clubs (including the LGBT center on Colfax). If you see me around, say hello!

Favorite race distance: I prefer half marathons, but I try to run at least one marathon a year.

Spot me at these races: Boulderthon 2024 Half Marathon, Long View 2024 Full Marathon.

Playing on my headphones: Rufus du Sol.

Favorite Post-Race Meal: NYC Style Pizza and a chocolate dessert.
My special race-day tradition: Early morning yoga, followed by light jogging with my two best friends — Matt and Aaron.

Advice for future Colfax Race participants: Whatever race you participate in, practice maintaining a speed that is comfortable for you and focus on finishing. If you are running the full marathon, spend some days training on hills/inclines.

Ashley Larson

I am so excited to be part of the Colfax ambys! Running is my favorite way to find joy and prepare for my day. As a mom of two awesome boys and assistant principal, running fuels my passion for working with students and balancing life’s demands. I’m committed to inspiring others through my journey, showing that with determination, we can achieve our goals and set a positive example for those we love. When I am not running or chasing kids around, I love to read and cook! Please share all the recs!

Favorite race distance: The marathon – because it’s there

Spot me at these races: Georgetown to Idaho Springs 1/2, The Hot Chocolate Run, RiNo 5k, The Brunch Run, Every Woman’s Marathon, Napa Valley Marathon, (hopefully Cherry Blossom 10k)… and who knows what else!

Playing through my headphones: Usually an audiobook or podcast, my current faves are The Mel Robbins Podcast and the U Up? Podcast. If it’s music, then I never know what it may be.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Usually whatever the local specialty is where I’m racing or a burger with all the jalapenos and fries! And definitely finding ice cream or donuts!

My special race-day ritual: First, you have to snag the flat lay pic and then start with pre-run graham crackers or pop-tarts! Queue up a fave pre-race playlist and get ready to go! I also love making race friends at the start line or while on the run.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Have fun and soak it up! There are so many awesome moments along the unique course that you have to just soak it all in, plan with your people where they’ll be so you don’t miss them as you’re running, and when you’re training find the best brunch spots to end your runs!

Baylie Thurber

All my life I have loved being active. I grew up hiking and swimming and cycled with my dad throughout high school, completing 1 half and 2 full centuries on my bike. But never thought I could be a runner because I didn’t have a “runners” body. However, in 2018, I felt like I was missing something in my life and I discovered that thing was running. In March 2018, I couldn’t run a single mile without stopping and in January 2019, I ran my first marathon and I running is now a big part of my life and who I am. I love showing others that you don’t have to be fast or skinny to love running and that we all belong in this sport.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: The 2024 NYC marathon (still fundraising to secure my charity bib), the 2024 Windsor half marathon, and the 2025 Disney marathon.

Playing through my headphones: Audiobooks! I read about 100 books per year and one way I do that is to listen to books while I run.

My go to post race meal: Give me all the mexican food!

Advice to future Colfax race participants: Show up on race day. Training may not have been everything you wanted it to be, you may not have slept well the night before, you might have a ton of laundry to catch up on, but I promise you none of that will matter on race day. Everyone will be proud of you no matter what happens because you did the hardest part by just showing up. Plus, the entire day is just one long party that you won’t want to miss!

Brentlee Cass

I mostly started running just to keep me in shape and allow me to eat and drink to my heart’s content, however what a wonderful community I stumbled into! I love seeing new places through running, and you will always find my wife at my side through the long training months and the amazing race days (she’s a much better runner than me). I’ve recently been working through some injuries so come hang with me while we grow into a new phase of my running life and learn to find more healthy and sustainable ways for me to keep at it. I look forward to seeing you at the finish line!

Favorite race distance: Half marathon (though for some reason I keep running full marathons…)

Spot me at these races: Denver Hot Chocolate Run, Run Denver Series, Denver Turkey Trot, and more to come!

Playing through my headphones: I typically opt for listening to the sounds around me rather than music, however I’m always listening to some pump up tunes before I hit the road!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Nothing will ever beat a delicious bagel sandwich.

My special race-day ritual: Avocado toast, lots of coffee, pump up tunes playing in the background and then I head to the start line to try to get some good pictures of the craziness

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Just sign up! Doesn’t matter the distance or your time, no matter what you are going to have a great time. It’s especially fun if you get a group of family or friends to join you, but if not, I promise there will be hundreds of people cheering you on at the finish line (I will be one of them!!). Plus the party at the finish line is top notch!

Brooke Goudy

Brooke “Rowdy” Goudy is an athlete, bicycle advocate, and outdoor adventurer. She is the operational manager and owner of Rowdy Goudy, a health and wellness organization dedicated to introducing outdoor adventure sports to women of color, and reshaping perceptions of active living, inspiring others to embrace the great outdoors. She is no stranger to the incredible sport of running. Her Last big race was the Vancouver half marathon. It’s been an on again, off again relationship with running, but she is ready to solidify this relationship and take on the Denver Colfax half marathon. “I am excited for everyone to watch me go from a casual runner to accomplishing a marathon in May. There will be mistakes, there will be heartache and setbacks, and I am excited to share it all in hopes that someone is inspired to move their body through running. I have gone from the couch to training and riding my bike from Canada to Mexico and inspired others to get on their bike and find a place in the world of cycling. I am just the ordinary girl taking on big adventures and showing everyone at home they have a place here too. Hopefully seeing me can be a representation that inspires people of color, and larger bodies to join the fun and get out and run.

Caitlin Stackpool

I am a health and exercise advocate who loves to travel. I’ve been running for 20 years and love to explore new cities on foot. I’m a mom who you’ll find running with my husband and both of our babies – my 2 year old daughter and my 9 year old yellow lab. I love to travel and am an avid reader. Runcations are a family favorite – catch me planning a full itinerary to sightsee the new spaces!

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: Brunch Run 5/10/15k, Rome Half Marathon, Every Woman’s Marathon, Colfax!!

Playing through my headphones: Taylor Swift or “Nobody Asked Us” Podcast

On my plate for a post-race meal: A cheeseburger! And a donut

My special race-day ritual: I make sure to get up a little extra early to sit and enjoy my cup of coffee and find some calm before the (race) storm.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Enjoy the moment!! You’ve sacrificed and trained for weeks. Soak up the energy of those around you and the sites of Denver. Be so proud of what you’ve accomplished by showing up.

Carla Garcia

I’m Carla Garcia Herrera, a 25-year-old Mexican au pair known for my infectious smile! I started running during the pandemic to take care of my mental health, and it’s become my passion since. I love joining run clubs and immersing myself in American culture, meeting new people along the way, I’m excited to inspire others with my journey.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon 2024, Long Beach Marathon 2024

Playing through my headphones: Broadway musicals and Mariachi songs.

On my plate for a post-race meal: the Biggest burger I can find followed by a brownie with ice cream

My special race-day ritual: Get into the running gear and have a snack, get to the race venue, quick potty stop and head to my corral where I say a quick prayer before the action begins.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Set a realistic goal and work hard towards it, find running buddies along the way and most importantly have fun!

Chris Sanders

Health Innovator + Triathlete. Work in health tech unearthing secrets of the human body. I race mid-distance triathlon though always trying on new adventures. 17th fastest up the Empire State Building!

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon / Mid-Distance Triathlon (70.3)

Spot me at these races: Colfax Half (of course!), Boston Marathon, NYC Marathon, Ironman Lake Placid

Playing through my headphones: Latest pod / Machine Gun Kelly

On my plate for a post-race meal: A great burger hits the spot!

My special race-day ritual: Cool mint chocolate Clif Bar + cinnamon raisin bread

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Running has always been a highly individualized sport but we can also use it to bridge connections with friends / loved ones in our life. The social aspects of running (both in-person & virtually through platforms like strava) are what motivate a lot of us and push us to achieve our goals.

Emily Hatch

While I’m originally from Boston, Colorado has been the best and my most favorite place to find things to do and people to do them with! Currently working on increasing how often my socks match. Will do many things for a free tshirt & some good laughs. I don’t believe in soft smiles but I do believe in the power of a well made mocha iced latte and a walk around Sloans with my gals!

Favorite race distance: Half marathon

Spot me at these races: Boulderthon this fall! More to come once my indecision passes

Playing through my headphones: Bops only, unless I’m in a mood and then it’s Ben Rector

On my plate for a post-race meal: 2 giant chocolate chip pancakes with strawberries, whipped cream, cinnamon and tons of maple syrup and a mocha vanilla iced latte

My special race-day ritual: Half a beer the night before!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Every starting line is a celebration! Celebrate how amazing it is you are toeing the line. Believe in the work you put in through your training and trust yourself to carry you through the race. Take your headphones out every now and then to soak it in & hear the support!

Grace Sims

My name is Grace Sims, and I am an active Colorado native. I love to be outside and love the mountains. I run (road and trail), snowboard, ski, hike, bike (mountain + gravel).
I have a successful career and am working as a Vice President of Supply Chain. I also love education. I hold a Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Business Administration from the University of Denver and a Ph.D. in Organization and Management from Capella University. I am also an Adjunct Professor in Supply Chain at the University of Denver. I love to solve problems, mentor people, see them grow, and give back.
My husband and I met running many years ago, and we got married 7 years ago on the top of Hope Pass in Twin Lakes, Colorado. We had 82 friends hike up to 12,600 feet to celebrate our wedding. Hope Pass is the highest point of the Leadville 100 Trail Run. My husband and I have run the race several times, and it holds a special place in our hearts.
I recently donated a kidney to a stranger. Before and after kidney donation, my activity level is very high. I have run 46 road marathons, +80 ultra trail races (50k-100 mile). When not working and teaching, I love to run (road and trail), bike (mountain and gravel), snowboard, ski, and hike, especially the Colorado 14ers.

Favorite race distance(s):
The road marathon and 50-mile trail.

Spot me at these races:
Lean Horse 50 Mile (August 2024)
Revel Cottonwood (September 2024)
Javelina 100K (October 2024)
Revel Big Bear (November 2024)
Avalon 50 Mile (January 2025)
Colorado Marathon (May 2025)
Colfax Marathon (May 2025)

Playing through my headphones:
Tom Petty, Country Music (the Highway on SiriusXM and all-new country on Apple Music), Top Hits, Alternative.

On my plate for a post-race meal:
Non-alcoholic beer and French Fries.

My special race-day ritual:
Lay everything out the night before (must match, including my hat). Lots of water in the morning. Starlight mints to settle my stomach. Glitter pink ChapStick. Sunscreen. Sunglasses.

Advice for future Colfax race participants:
Take it all in. Enjoy all of the sights of Denver. Enjoy the race and have fun with it. Encourage others running around you if they are struggling. Smile. Be thankful you can run a marathon. Run for all of those that cannot run.

Haley Hassebrock

Hi! My name is Haley Hassebrock I was born and raised in the beautiful state of Colorado and moved to Minnesota in 2013. I’m the store manager at our local running specialty store TerraLoco in Rochester MN. I picked up running during Covid to get outside in nature and to clear my head. I’ve definitely enjoyed all the runcations I’ve been on since starting my running journey.

My favorite race distance is the half marathon and I’m currently trying to break 3 hours.

I’m currently training for my second full marathon which will be in Chicago in October. I will be running with the Alzheimer’s Association which is a charity near and dear to my heart.

While out on my long runs I’ve been listening to a lot of my audio books but I’m always in the mood for an 80’s rock playlist as well.

Post race I will devour anything and everything I can get my hands on. However after Grandmas marathon last year all I really wanted was a slice of pizza and pickles.

I always have race day nerves and anxiety so I always leave really early to get to the start line. I lay all my stuff out the night before so it’s ready to go. I also start my mantras favorites: I can do this, one step at a time and just keep swimming.

My advice for future Colfax marathoners. Have your ABC goals but go out and have fun. Listen to your body and make the right decisions for you. You’ve done all the hard work and this is a run to celebrate that, and you never know who you are inspiring to start their own running journey.

Jess Tenery

I am a swimmer accidentally turned runner. I love being outside, spending time with friends, baking or reading. I’ve found running to be my outlet to connect with friends, spend time outdoors and (ironically)slow down in my own mind- I’m consistently amazed by what our bodies can do!
Plus my dog, Lucie, loves when I’m training for a race!

Favorite race distance: 10k or Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: USA Women’s Half Marathon AZ, Colfax Marathon and a couple Triathlons in Boulder

Playing through my headphones: I Freakin Love You

On my plate for a post-race meal: Powdered sugar donettes!!
And then maybe a burger, grilled onions, fries and a strawberry shake.

My special race-day ritual: I make some jelly toast, sit down to read a couple pages of a book to calm my nervous system then show up to the start line unnecessarily early to make sure I don’t miss my wave.

Advice for future Colfax race participants:
I tell everyone to run their own race- don’t worry about your pace or who you’re passing or who’s passing you. Find a comfortable stride that feels good in your legs and lungs and make sure to take it all in. The views, the people the adrenaline. Talk to the stranger next to you, high-five the sign with the “power-up” button. Your race is only as good as the way you remember it.

John Cieraszynski

As a Denver native, I found running later in life thanks to a Colfax ambassador and I have never looked back. Apparently running is contagious since my daughter now runs daily, my son has started and my wife….still likes to bike. She is my race supporter! I enjoy encouraging (or should I say conning) my friends to run and hope to get more people exercising be it running, biking or even walking consistently.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: Mostly local in Colorado, The Hot Chocolate Run in Wash park, Anything Colfax, The Holy Cow, The Rhino 5K, etc.

Playing through my headphones: NamNamBulu, Estiva, Overwork, Mind in a Box, Urgress with some 1940’s Big Band thrown in.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Protein Smoothie, a cheeseburger or Pizza

My special race-day ritual: Oatmeal for breakfast, a good bathroom break and then off to the start line as early as possible.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: We are not all elite. Be comfortable with your pace whatever that is and enjoy the run, however it goes. Its about putting yourself out there and testing yourself. You will be surprised at what you can do!

Jordan Santo

I just moved to Denver this week after spending two years abroad and am stoked to be here and to meet everyone in this awesome running community! I lived in NYC for 8 years with Central Park as my “backyard” and will always say “YES!” to a runcation (9 marathons, 6 countries, 3 continents).

Favorite race distance: Marathon or 4-Mile

Spot me at these races: Boulderthon 10K, 2025 Colfax Marathon

Playing through my headphones: My “Running Around The World” playlist, find it on Spotify!

On my plate for a post-race meal: McDonalds. It’s my weird post-race tradition that’s in memory of my Grandma who lost her battle with ALS in 2010. I also raise money for ALS charities around the world for each marathon I run.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Run your own race! It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of race day, especially if it’s your first big-city race. Stay calm, don’t go out too fast, fuel early and often, and trust your training! YOU GOT THIS!

Josh Kingry

I’m a husband and father of 3. I moved to Colorado in 2010 from the midwest. I’m a slow runner but I like to go far. Fitness is my hobby and I love the fall. Beautiful weather and college football!

Favorite Race Distance: This is a tough one. Haven’t done 100 yet, so unsure how I will feel about that. I guess for now I’ll go with the 50k.

Spot Me At These Races: I’ll be at the Leadville Trail 100 Run this year and next year for sure the Colfax Marathon and Chase The Moon.

Playing Through My Headphones: Everything! My playlist even keep me guessing

On My Plate For A Post-Race Meal: Pizza and a Coke (could leave the pizza. The Coke is a must-have)

My Special Race-Day Ritual: I probably need to create one of these. What ends up happening is I get quiet and go inward.

Advice For Future Colfax Race Participants: If you have never run a marathon you are going to discover so much about yourself. With that in mind, stay curious. If you have run a marathon but not this one, enjoy this amazing event. The amount of people and the energy is so much fun.

Karina Varner

I am a lover of running and the community that comes with it! I have 4 rescue dog that I love spending a majority of my free time with. When I’m not running, catch me on the golf course or on a paddle board.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: Westminster 5k Trail Race, Denver Rocks Run 10k, Hot Chocolate 10k, and the Colfax Ten Miler!!

Playing through my headphones: Indie Rock

On my plate for a post-race meal:
Canes Fried Chicken with extra toast and extra canes sauce!

My special race-day ritual: A perfect combination of preworkout, dance party vibes in my living room, and snuggles with my pups.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: the race is a celebration of all your hard work over the last 12-20 weeks! The party begins at the start line and everyone is rooting for you!

Makala Banas

Hi! I am thrilled to be back for my 2nd year as a Colfax Ambassador! I am an elementary school teacher and have lived in CO (the Springs) for five years now. I am a new-ish runner, only having really gotten into the sport in 2022, with some of my “highlights” being my very first Half in May ’22 (Colfax of course), the Pikes Peak Ascent, WDW Princess Half Marathon, and Ragnar Snowmas. I love to show people (especially women and girls) that you do not have to be FAST to be a “runner” – miles are miles and the sense of community and the friendships I’ve made because of running are priceless!

Favorite race distance: Probably the Half, but I do love a good 5/10k!

Spot me at these races: I’ll be running my FIRST Marathon this October in CHICAGO!! Only other “big” race on the calendar after that is Colfax in May 2025, with a whole bunch of 5-10ks in between!

Playing through my headphones: I usually have an episode of Sally McRae’s “Choose Strong” podcast playing during my long runs. If it’s music, the range spans from 90s Hip-Hop/Rap, to Taylor Swift, to Foo Fighters, and SO much in-between!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Anything and everything!!! Although I love a Coke and potato chips immediately after a race. When it comes to a meal, a burger and fries, or pizza and salad seem to be the go-tos.

My special race-day ritual: Nothing too crazy – up early enough to eat something and get some electrolytes in, double check the hydration pack and make my way to the race!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: If you are on the fence about signing up – just DO it! I have run the Half for the past three years and it just keeps getting better! The Expo, the swag (the medals are my FAVORITE!), the course, the community, the post-race party … Colfax is such a FUN race weekend! And you just can’t beat that feeling of accomplishment after you finish!

Mallory Choate

Maureen Harvey

I enjoy running for my health, for my sanity. I love runcations with friends and running with my dog Colfax, who I adopted from one of the Colfax Marathon charity partners in 2013 after running the 10 miler. He has run the Colfax 5k every year since 2014.

Favorite race distance: The 10 miler, then the half

Spot me at these races: Hot Chocolate 15k, Chicago Marathon, NYC Marathon

Playing through my headphones: Rock, Alternative

On my plate for a post-race meal: Cheeseburger and a beer, later coffee and dessert

My special race-day ritual: Coffee and breakfast, walk Colfax and go hang out in port ‘o potty line before the race starts, chat with others

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Run with your heart and just keep putting one foot in front of the other. You will get there!

Michael Moriarty

I am a homebody… Because, well, I live in Colorado. What about home isn’t there to love. I moved here for the rich outdoor culture. To meet like minded people. Soak up all the west has to offer! Running for me is all things. Spiritual, exercise, social, therapy, a key to the mind and the world around me.

My favorite race distance is the marathon. There is literally no better a finish line. My second favorite is the 70.3 triathlon.

Spot me on long adventyre bike rides and runs, exploring all Colorado has to offer. I just recently completed the Triple Bypass bike ride for my first time. I did Colfax this past year, and just completed the Highline Canal trail from Chesterfield to Cherry Creek and man… From the city to the mountains.. what a place. I plan to ride Mount Evans from home in Lakewood for my first time very soon as well as partaking I the Little foot Triathlon. Let’s see which way the wind blows to see what else is next 😉

My music taste is mixed but I am a pop punk kid at heart. Blink182 to Four Year Strong and beyond. Otherwise, retro synth pop is my jam. If it’s got 80s sounding synths and hooks like Everybody Wants to Rule the World, it’s in my ears!

Post race meals typically include bubble, hops, barley……. Get what I’m saying?

My race day ritual is to listen to the playlist my high school cross team would listen to the hear we won our school’s first state title 🙂 Songs include Learning to Fly by Tom Petty, Don’t Look Back by Boston and more…

My advice to a Colfax starter is to buckle down and prepare for a helluva ride in a city that is stoked to have you. Racing is hard, but forgetting to take in this city and all it offers on race day would be even harder. Eyes open, chin up, smile for those amazing photos and get ready for some new lifetime memories.

Rogelio Hernandez

I am a sucker for running shoes! Isn’t that almost everyone’s favorite words? Running has become my other community, besides the one I work with as a social worker. I also believe putting in the work and always being of service to others pays off in the long run, and by being an advocate and promoting wellness for a healthy living through running inspires me to continue in this journey.

Favorite race distance: 10k

Spot me at these races: Colfax half-marathon, Latino Ultra Nature Adventure 7.5-mile, Antelope Canyon Ultras 30k, Broncos Fit 7k

Playing through my headphone: 90’s Hip Hop

On my plate for a post-race meal: A great order of carne asada tacos with all its respective ingredients and plenty of hydrating refreshments.

My special race-day ritual: Waking up hours in advance because the adrenaline is already brewing. Make a fresh cup of strong coffee, banana and peanut butter, and good pump-up music.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: The race is about enjoying yourself and about reaching whatever goal you have set without injuries, setbacks, or regrets. You train, you take care of yourself, and you win.

Shilpa Sheetal

I absolutely love running and always make sure to say ‘Hi’ to every dog I come across during my jogs! Participating in marathons is my passion, and I can’t wait to treat myself to a delicious meal once I’ve completed one!

Favorite race distance: Half-marathon

Spot me at these races: Colfax Full Marathon or Half Marathon

Playing through my headphones: Boys in Paris (with VINAI)

On my plate for a post-race meal: Chocolate and banana protein shake, Nashville hot chicken and waffles smothered with maple butter, and plenty of ice-cold water!

My special race-day ritual: Repeat my affirmation for the day, meditate and stretch, have a light breakfast, hug my husband, and then meet up with others for the race!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Listen to the cheering of the crowd and remember to stay hydrated. Their support can truly motivate you more than any music in your headphones, so don’t underestimate it!

Tony Rush

In my family and friend circles, I am known as the runner. Whether deep in the throes of winter all bundled up or on the beaches under the Hawaiian summer sun, they can always count on me to post stories about my running adventures. Throughout all my professional life – from working in higher education to coaching cross country/track to being the command fitness leader for my navy reserve unit – I encourage a healthy lifestyle for all!

Favorite race distance: The marathon

Spot me at these races: TCS NYC Marathon, Honolulu Marathon, Ragnars

Playing through my headphones: An eclectic mix ranging from Broadway musicals to country to Indie

On my plate for a post-race meal: Ice cream, steak and more ice cream

My special race-day ritual: Nice warm shower. Bagel with peanut butter.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Enjoy the experience and don’t worry about time! Read the signs being held along the route, enjoy the music from local artists, high-five the kids, and listen to the community cheering you on! You’re doing something only a small, small percentage of the population has ever done!

Tori Laires

Hi! I am a fitness and adventure enthusiast living in Denver, CO. I am a full-time Behavioral Therapist in an elementary school and part-time camper, hiker, and trail runner with my dog! I am a former collegiate soccer player with a passion for running. I am so excited to be a part of this running community!

Favorite race distance: Half marathon!

Spot me at these races: Autumn Run Buena Vista, CO

Playing through my headphones: EDM!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Chicken or Eggplant Parmesan!

My special race-day ritual: Fuel, stretch, positive affirmation’s!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Denver Colfax Marathon is such a fun race! There is a strong sense of community and positivity at this race. Everyone supports/cheers each other on and it’s impossible to leave the race without a smile on your face!

Tyler Crawley

I am a busy full-time surgery resident and love using my time when not in the OR to be running, especially outside! It’s a stress reliever for me and important for keeping my life balanced. Because of my schedule though, I am not someone who has the ability to run consistently every day, which means my training can be highly variable. I hope this highlights that there are all kinds of runners and you just need to find how it fits into your life!

Favorite race distance: Half marathon

Spot me at these races: Yosemite National Park half marathon, Breckenridge half marathon, New Belgium half marathon, Rocky Mountain National Park half marathon, any of the CO Brewery Running Series races, and hopefully one of the Abbott World Marathons Majors one day, if I ever get a spot (Fingers crossed!).

Playing through my headphones: A little bit of everything from podcasts, to audiobooks (Love a thriller while running), to my favorite artists including Whitney Houston, Blink-182, Mumford & Sons, Big Gigantic, Charlie XCX, etc.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Pepperoni pizza!

My special race-day ritual: I am the person who always gets to the race super early in order to ensure I find parking and know where everything is. This helps get ride of some of the logistical anxiety of race day. Once there, I will typically have a light snack and go through my own personal yoga/stretching routine to get loose and in the right headspace for the race.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: When it comes to Colfax, I think the experience is just as important as the race itself. All the hours of training and preparing culminate in a weekend filled with excitement alongside 25,000+ fellow racers. It is truly so much fun and unlike any other experience, so make sure to take a moment and soak it in!