Presenting the Elite Runners of the Detroit Free Press Marathon 2025!
The Detroit Free Press Marathon, presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, is thrilled to unveil its prestigious Elite Field for 2025. As part of our enduring commitment to elevate the race’s prominence and foster a culture of excellence in distance running, we are honored to welcome an exceptional cohort of elite athletes from across Metro Detroit, Michigan, Canada, and the United States.
Men’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Software Engineer
Personal best time: 13:24 – 5k, 28:21 – 10k, 62:15 – Half
Career highlights: Running in a Michigan uniform at the US Olympic Trials
Favorite quote: “The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something” – President Barack Obama
Fun fact(s) about you: Went to Michigan in spite of my name (Tom Brady)
Why are you racing Detroit?: My partner’s family is from southeast Michigan and I’m a proud Michigan alum. To have my first marathon in a place so familiar with my family and her’s cheering me on will be special.
Profession: Coach and Co-Owner of RTTW LLC
Instagram: @andyb_xc3
Personal best time: 2:14:19 CIM Marathon
Career highlights: Winning the Free Press with my Wife 2024
Favorite quote: “Most people never run far enough on their first wind to find out they’ve got a second.” — William James
Fun fact(s) about you: GLR/MOR (Michigan trail race) is where I met my wife and where I proposed.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Home town race, can’t pass up on it!
Profession: Supply Chain Master Planner
Instagram: @toast_joost
Personal best time: 2:16:47 – full marathon. Too old to use any college PBs anymore lol
Career highlights: Winning the Detroit Half in 2023, OTQ’ing at CIM in 2023.
Favorite quote: “C’mon with the c’mon”
Fun fact(s) about you: My first time running the Detroit Half was my first time ever in Canada
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hopefully chase a new PB but at the very least it’s nice to have something to build back fitness for.
Profession: Advertising
Instagram: @xcmora18
Personal best time: Marathon 2:20:13
Career highlights: 35th place and a new personal best at NYC in 2024
Favorite quote: “Stay hungry, stay foolish”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a cat with no tail and I sell vintage furniture as a side hobby.
Why are you racing Detroit?: To compete and have fun!
Profession: Economist
Instagram: @zane_aldrich_
Personal best time: 5k – 14:08, 10k- 29:36, Half Marathon – 1:06:06
Career highlights: Division 2 National appearances in XC with Northwood University in 2021-2022, Mile School Record Holder @ Whittemore-Prescott High School (4:31)
Favorite quote: “If you think you can’t, you won’t. If you think you might, you might not. If you tell yourself you will, and hold onto that when it’s easy and when it’s hard, you’ll do it” adapted from Coach Kushion
Fun fact(s) about you: My biggest training partner is my golden retriever Zoom who always makes sure recovery pace stays leisurely.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I heard you cross the bridge into Canada for this race. I’m hoping to get my hands on some maple syrup while I’m over there.
Profession: Applied Physics PhD Student at University of Michigan
Personal best time: 14:19 5k, 29:56 10k
Career highlights: Getting all-american in the 2022 D3 XC National Championships
Fun fact(s) about you: i like to run
Why are you racing Detroit?: To push myself to become better
Profession: Insurance Agent
Instagram: @noah_verlinde
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:21, Half – 69:12, 10k – 30:10, 5k-14:31, 3k – 8:22, Mile – 4:14
Career highlights: 2nd place finish at the Bayshore Marathon & 3rd place GLIAC 5k (2024)
Favorite quote: “If there is no struggle, there is no progress” – Frederick Douglas
Fun fact(s) about you: I was born in Seoul, South Korea.
Why are you racing Detroit?: The community revolved around this event has been wha five heard most, and I am honored to be apart of this years race!
Profession: Civil Engineer
Instagram: @runner_derek
Personal best time: 2:21:43 (Marathon)
Career highlights: MIAA Conference Champion in college, 2nd place at Toledo Marathon 2023 and beating a few OTQ athletes
Favorite quote: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take – Wayne Gretzky” – Michael Scott
Fun fact(s) about you: I grew up Amish and was Amish for 16 years of my life.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I am racing Detroit because I love marathons in midwest cities and it is close to home. I have heard great things about Detroit and it will be cool to run through Canada for a little bit.
Profession: Software Engineer
Personal best time: 67:30, 2:23:29
Career highlights: 3 time Wisconsin Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run from Cerró de la Muerte to the Pacific Ocean
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was planning on running Detroit in 2024 for an over due PR but had to pull out due to injury. This year I’m looking to run fast and be competitive upfront.
Profession: Manufacturing Engineer
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:25:26, 10 Mile – 52:20
Career highlights: 2x GLR podium finish
Favorite quote: Great moments are born from great opportunity.
Fun fact(s) about you: In golf, I broke 80 before breaking 90. But to this day, I still struggle to break 90.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit will be a Hometown race! This will be my first Detroit Marathon, and it is exciting to be a part of Detroit’s 2nd elite field ever. Also excited to see many familiar faces on the course!
Profession: Account Executive
Instagram: @mgravelyn89
Personal best time: 2:23:46
Career highlights: 6 completed marathons, all under 2:30. Personal best completed at Bayshore Marathon 2025, 2:23:46
Favorite quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” ― Oscar Wilde
Fun fact(s) about you: Former home brewer
Why are you racing Detroit?: Next on the list!
Profession: Assistant Superintendent – Lutheran High School Association of Greater Detroit
Personal best time: 2:28:34 (Marathon), 1:08:38 (Half), 30:33 (10,000), 14:34 (5,000)
Career highlights: 4th place at Detroit Free Press in 2023. DIII NCAA 5,000, 10,000, and cross country All-American.
Favorite quote: Run with perseverance the race marked out for us. -Hebrews 12:1
Fun fact(s) about you: I have 6 amazing kids that keep life exciting and busy. I’m also no longer the fastest in the household.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit is a top tier US marathon and I love competing so close to home. I ran ’23 and ’24 and am looking forward to another successful race in ’25.
Profession: Teacher
Instagram: @iancook23
Personal best time: 2:36:23 full, 70:07 half, 31:10 10k
Career highlights: Winning the Logroño International Half Marathon, lining up behind Yomif Kejelcha and Joshua Cheptegei TWICE! (And then getting obliterated by them)
Favorite quote: “Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens” -Gimli in The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Fun fact(s) about you: I do a deadly karaoke Jim Morrison on Roadhouse Blues by The Doors
Why are you racing Detroit?: To run fast in Michigan!
Profession: Pro Barista, Freelance Videographer
Instagram: @_nate_pearson
Personal best time: 10k: 32:52, Half Marathon: 1:11:46, Marathon: 2:29:04
Career highlights: 99th at CIM in 2024, 61st at Grandma’s Marathon in 2025
Favorite quote: “Thwart institutional cowardice” -Werner Herzog
Fun fact(s) about you: I play bass guitar and make a mean omelette.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I just want to get in there and race the competition—and hopefully run fast along the way!
Profession: Law Student
Instagram: @a.denny03
Personal best time: 1:09:22 half marathon, 2:29:47 full marathon
Career highlights: Qualifying for the Chicago Marathon American Development Program
Favorite quote: “All I want to do is drink beer and train like an animal.” -Rod Dixon
Fun fact(s) about you: I have kept every race bib from every race I’ve done, going back to my very first in 2001.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Marathon running is a fun way to see many miles of a city with a new perspective. I really love the city of Detroit, and there is a Lions game at Ford Field the next day, so the choice was easy!
Profession: New Balance tech rep
Instagram: @aidanbustillo
Personal best time: 14:56 5k, 53:31 10 mile, 1:10:36 half marathon, 2:31:03 marathon
Career highlights: 2022 NIRCA XC All-American, 2nd at 2019 Chocolate Milk Mile
Favorite quote: “He ran not for crypto-religious reasons, but to win races, to cover ground fast. Not only to be better than his fellows, but better than himself. To be faster by a tenth of a second, by an inch, by two feet or two yards, than he had been the week or year before… Running to him was real; the way he did it the realest thing he knew.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I can solve a Rubik’s cube faster than I can run 200m.
Why are you racing Detroit?: As a southeast Michigan native, Detroit is as close to a hometown major marathon that I can imagine. I had a great experience being in the elite field last year for the half marathon, and am looking forward to trying to rewrite an almost 3 year old PR after a long time away from the full marathon distance!
Women’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Running Coach and Marine Biologist
Instagram: @christinajwelsh
Personal best time: 2:33:00 from the 2022 Houston Marathon
Career highlights: Running the Olympic Trials in Orlando. It wasn’t a PR, but it was so great to have so many friends and family come out to support that weekend.
Favorite quote: “Listen to your heart (no)” – Greg Katz
Fun fact(s) about you: For my PhD research, I meaure VO2 max in fish
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’ve never been to Detroit, and I want to see something new during this marathon!
Profession: Occupational Therapist
Instagram: @brittney___hall
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:36:28 Half Marathon: 1:16:18
Career highlights: Qualifying in the Marathon for the US 2024 Olympic Trials
Favorite quote: Sometimes I’ll start a sentence and I don’t even know where it’s going. I just hope I find it along the way. — Michael Scott (The Office)
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a cat named Junie who low key might just be a dog. She comes when she’s called, always right at the door when I come home, glued to my side throughout the day, and can sit on command!
Why are you racing Detroit?: The Detroit marathon had been on my bucket list to race since I’ve started training for marathons. My mom is Canadian so I will have family on both sides of the border cheering me on! This will be my first marathon in over a year and I am very excited to toe the starting line!
Profession: Gymnastics coach
Instagram: @alexruns42k
Personal best time: 50k 3:25:12; marathon 2:40:43; half marathon 1:18:38
Career highlights: Being named to the US 50k 2023 world championship team and competing at the 50k World Championships in Hyderabad, India. Winning the 2022 US 50k National Championship. Qualifying for and competing at the 2020 US Olympic Marathon Trials.
Favorite quote: Somewhere someone is training when you are not. When you race him, he will win. – Tom Fleming
Fun fact(s) about you: I was a competitive gymnast through college and didn’t start running until after I graduated. My first coach was Tom Fleming who coached me until he passed in 2017. I have a rescue senior pitbull named Peaches and no she does not run with me.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s a race I’ve never done but I have raced often in Michigan (Crim 10 miler and the 25k championship usually held in Grand Rapids) as I have family in Michigan. My cousin ran Detroit and said it was a good course and I was looking for a potentially fast course that I haven’t previously run.
Profession: I recently graduated with a degree in Elementary Eduaction, and am want to explore my passion for athletics and am now working as a Social Media Manager for a local race company!
Instagram: @rreaganjustice
Personal best time: 10k: 34:52 5k: 16:41
Career highlights: I was grateful to earn All American in the NCAA d2 Xc championships! I was a national qualifier this past spring in the 10k, and a 3 time conference champion!
Favorite quote: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift!”
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve been running since middle school, but I actually used to do competitive dance for 10 ish years!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Being a recent graduate from Wayne State, Detroit feels like a second home! I can’t wait to rep Wayne State again in such a wonderful place. The city means so much to me and there’s no other place I’d want to shoot my shot at a marathon!
Profession: Teacher
Personal best time: 10k- 35:31, 1/2 marathon – 1:18:21, marathon 2:53:00
Career highlights: 2nd place Richmond Marathon, Boston Marathon finisher, 1st place New River 50k
Favorite quote: “It just doesn’t matter! It just doesn’t matter!” -Bill Murray
Fun fact(s) about you: I have 3 dogs. Two chocolate labs- Holly and Maple, and a Corrie named Evie.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My dad grew up in Detroit and my mom grew up in a small town not far from Detroit. She passed away in April. Training for this was a great way to help process such a big loss.
Profession: Mortgage Agent
Instagram: @analau_77
Personal best time: 2:46:40
Career highlights: Winner of Marathon du P’tit train du Nord 2023. Winner of the Toronto Marathon (May race) 2025. 3rd F45-49 at the Boston Marathon 2023. Canadian Masters Athletics National Marathon Champion F45-49 2022 & 2024, National 10K Champion F45-49 2023.
Favorite quote: I don’t run to add days to my life. I run to add life to my days. – Ronald Rook.
Fun fact(s) about you: Born in Mexico, moved to Canada at the age of 23 which means I now have lived more than 50% of my life in Canada. I am a huge Darts fan.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have ran 27 marathons. Detroit is a race I haven’t run & I’ve heard great things about it. It’s also close to Canada & running on the Ambassador Bridge sounds like it would be so fun!
Profession: Electrical Engineer
Instagram: @_asherm
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:49, 10k: 35:07, 5k: 16:47
Career highlights: Runner up at the 2023 Horizon League Cross Country Championships, The University of Detroit Mercy School Record in 5k and 10k
Favorite quote: “Keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground” – Theodore Roosevelt
Fun fact(s) about you: I quit playing soccer because I didn’t like running when I was little
Why are you racing Detroit?: Want to run a marathon in the city I love and went to college in for 5 years
Profession: Medical Student (M1)
Instagram: @g7ace_
Personal best time: 1 Mile (5:05), 3000 (9:47), 5000 (16:38), 10000 (34:14), 13.1 (1:18:33)
Career highlights: Placed 38th at the NCAA East Regional XC 2024 (6k, 20:32), set a new Horizon League meet record as conference champion (2025) in the 10,000m with a time of 34:17.
Favorite quote: “It doesn’t matter if you fall short; it is never a failure to go after your goals with everything you’ve got.” — Michael Phelps
Fun fact(s) about you: I attended Oakland University for undergraduate, graduate, and now medical school– Go Grizz!!
Why are you racing Detroit?: After graduating from Oakland University in the spring and completing my NCAA eligibility, my love and passion for the sport stayed strong. As I made the transition into medical school, I knew that I wanted to keep running a priority in my life. Detroit will be my first marathon, and the first ‘big’ race of my post-collegiate running career.
Profession: Coach and physical therapist
Instagram: @melissakesslerdpt
Personal best time: Marathon 2:51:49, 5k masters 18:08, 25k 1:39:21
Career highlights: 1st place masters female 2025 Riverbank run, 1st place masters female 2024 Richmond Marathon, 5th place masters female 2024 Crim 10 mile
Favorite quote: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” -Mary Oliver
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a mom to 3 wonderful kids, and enjoy reading, knitting, and always love a run with a friend.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I am a former DII collegiate runner and took 11 years off from competitive running for school and to start a family. During Covid, my husband Justin encouraged me to get back into running and it has opened doors for me to explore new career opportunities, travel, and explore my limits as a masters runner. I am running Detroit to try for another PR and to reminisce as I used to run on the streets of Detroit in college with some of my closest friends I have to this day. I’ve taken 28 minutes off my marathon PR in the last 2 years and this course would be incredibly special to continue to improve on that.
Profession: Electrical Engineer
Instagram: @Kayla.Hughes
Personal best time: 2:50:34 marathon, 1:23:42 HM
Career highlights: 4th at Detroit Marathon 2024
Favorite quote: Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right – Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I adopted a retired racing greyhound
Why are you racing Detroit?: I need to see that view of the sunrise at the top of the Ambassador bridge again
Profession: Physical Therapist
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:55:04; Half Marathon- 1:27:56
Career highlights: Breaking 3 hours in the marathon at the Columbus Marathon last fall! I never thought breaking 3 was in the cards for me.
Favorite quote: This too shall pass.
Fun fact(s) about you: I ran my first ultra earlier this year and surprisingly I loved it. I could definitely see myself transitioning to the ultra world in the somewhat near future!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love the energy in Detroit, as well as the course. It’s my hometown marathon!
Profession: Nurse Practitioner
Instagram: @jesszang
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:55:11
Career highlights: Forming amazing friendships with my teammates at ISU and UK and being coached by the amazing John Gartland. Was able to compete in the Burning River 100 mile relay this year with an awesome group of people and finished 3rd!
Favorite quote: “You don’t have to win, to win” – Nicole Jenkins
Fun fact(s) about you: I run so I can stay in shape for my true love of skiing! I’m also an avid baker and love making sourdough for friends and family
Why are you racing Detroit?: I had an amazing time last year meeting so many incredible people. The course is beautiful and the elite team was really well organized. Looking forward to being a part of the team again this year!
Profession: Director of Operations at Epic Races
Instagram: @angelacarron37
Personal best time: 2:55:31 – 2025 Boston Marathon, 1:24:12 – 2025 Rock CF Half Marathon. Like a fine wine, getting better with age. Who knew?!!
Career highlights: Running 150 marathons. I love this distance. I have seen my best and worst in it over the years and I truly believe there are no race day conditions I cannot overcome with the power of a positive mind:)
Favorite quote: “Nobody Cares, Work Harder.” – Jocko Willink
Fun fact(s) about you: I get to race in the Elite Field with my daughter, Reagan Justice!! She ran her first half marathon at age 12 and since then I’ve been dreaming of the day we would toe the line of 26.2 together. Never in a million years did I think I would still be fast enough, at the age of 47, to line up alongside her in the Elite Field at Detroit Marathon. It’s like a dream come true<3 Why are you racing Detroit?: I love this race and have had total FOMO every time I don’t sign up. This will be my 15th DFPM event. 13th time running the marathon. This race’s vibe is unmatched. I absolutely LOVE it!
Profession: Retired General Motors Supply Chain Executive
Personal best time: 2000 Las Vegas Marathon 2:50:44
Career highlights: Set a new Boston Marathon age group record at the 2025 Boston Marathon by almost 6 minutes in a time of 2:58:02 1st place in age group in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Boston Marathons Have run 72 total marathons and 19 Boston marathons Won the 2000 Detroit Marathon Won the 2003 Flying Pig Cincinnati Marathon Also won the Glass City Toledo, Bayshore Traverse City and Smokey Mountain Tennessee marathons USA national age group record holder in 12K (2021), 1 Mile (2025), 3000 Indoor Track (2025), 5000 Outdoor Track (2025)
Favorite quote: No regrets!
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve won the female overall Arnold Pump and Run 11 times! ( bench press & 5k combo)
Why are you racing Detroit?: Love the course!!! And it’s close to home!
Profession: Consumer Products Strategy
Instagram: @kate.gunson
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:52:18; 1/2 Marathon: 1:23:13; 10k: 38:24; 5k: 18:18
Career highlights: NA
Favorite quote: “Energy and persistence conquer all things” – Benjamin Franklin
Fun fact(s) about you: Detroit will be my 16th marathon!
Why are you racing Detroit?: After several years of doing Boston / Chicago as my two marathons each year, I’m trying to switch it up and see other cities through running!
Men’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Senior Research Analyst
Instagram: @ethanjhermann
Personal best time: 1:04:51 Half Marathon, 4:08.97 Mile
Career highlights: 2-Time Winner of the Hartford Half Marathon (2023,2024) | 8th Place at the 2021 Philadelphia Half Marathon
Favorite quote: “Water always seeks its own level” – a quote passed down from my Dad’s side of the family.
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run with an adult track club since being a freshman in college [my school didn’t have a team], I am a part-time bartender, and I love traveling to new states for races!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted to have a great half marathon in October to set up success for my marathon this fall, and I am going to a wedding the week of the one I usually go to (Hartford). Zach, the elite coordinator, graciously reached out unprompted and urged me to come race at Detroit. After having several friends and running acquaintances compete and leave glowing reviews of the course and organization and crowds, the answer was quite easy. I’m super excited for my first time in Detroit!
Profession: Student
Instagram: @alex_penski
Personal best time: 14:02 5k, 8:04 3k
Career highlights: All B1G 2nd team for XC (2023)
Favorite quote: “With great power comes great responsibility”- Uncle Ben
Fun fact(s) about you: •I’m a Leo •I’m left handed •If Im not running or working or studying, I’m most likely watching a movie •I ran for MSU (Go Green!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love the idea of racing my first half marathon locally (compared to other well known (half) marathons around the world).
Profession: Engineer at Eli Lilly & co.
Instagram: @calebjkerr
Personal best time: M: 2:14:50, HM: 1:04:36, 10k: 29:04, 5k: 14:16
Career highlights: 2020 and 2024 US Olympic Marathon Trials (59th and 48th). 4xUSATF Indiana Long Distance Runner of the Year. 9th at 2022 USATF HM Championships
Favorite quote: It is hard to fail but it is worse to have never tried to succeed – Teddy Roosevelt
Fun fact(s) about you: My wife Katie is the Purdue school record holder in the mile. I got my private pilot’s license last year.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My brother in law David (Ann Arbor, MI resident) convinced me to do it!
Profession: Tax Accountant
Personal best time: 2:24:53 Full | 65:35 Half | 30:05 10K | 14:47 5K
Career highlights: Ran 31:05 10K 5 days after Boston
Favorite quote: “Remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” —Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I reenacted Seinfeld standup for my company talent show
Why are you racing Detroit?: My coach’s marathon PR is here, and running across the border is very cool!
Profession: Emergency Physician
Instagram: @morsirayyan
Personal best time: HM 66:24, 10k 29:12, 5k 13:57, mile 4:03, 1500 3:46
Career highlights: Making the NCAA national championship twice in college in the 10k and winning the Detroit International Half Marathon three times.
Favorite quote: At the end of the day, you just have to go out there and compete.
Fun fact(s) about you: My dog Galaxy is my favorite running buddy.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s an amazing race atmosphere and nothing beats running across the bridge as the sun comes up!
Profession: Graduate Student at Oakland University
Instagram: @himichaelhancock
Personal best time: 4:02 Road Mile, 8:11 3k
Career highlights: Nike Cross Nationals and Footlocker Nationals Qualifier. Represented the USA at the 2019 World Mountain Running Championships. Went to Michigan for Track and Cross Country.
Favorite quote: Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a twin and did all my running success while chasing him
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit is the first city I ever knew. It is home for me on the grand scale coming from Dearborn. I want to be apart of its revival.
Profession: IT Systems Analyst
Instagram: @adann01
Personal best time: Half Marathon – 1:07:00; 10k – 29:57; 5k – 14:08; 3k – 8:09
Career highlights: Running across the desert from Los Angeles to Las Vegas with my friends earlier this year as well as witnessing a buddy of mine win the 2021 MVC Steeplechase
Favorite quote: “Every day above ground is a great day, remember that” – Pitbull
Fun fact(s) about you: My first and only time being in Canada was at this race last year. Excited for trip number two
Why are you racing Detroit?: To get after it and have a great time doing it
Profession: Data Analyst
Instagram: @akimpel91
Personal best time: HM: 67:13, Marathon: 2:25, 8k XC: 23:27, 5k: 14:02, 1500m: 3:46
Career highlights: Three top 20 finishes at the Bloomsday 12k Run. 7th at the 2024 Boulevard Race. 4th at XTERRA 2024 World Trail Marathon Champs.
Favorite quote: Be kind. Work hard. Be wise in time. Be present. Forgive. – Coach Jon Knight
Fun fact(s) about you: This will be my first time in Michigan! I’m a road/trail hybrid runner of sorts, and have completed a 50k and 100k trail race. I’m a stereotypical Washingtonian and own a Subaru. I’ve been taught how to play the midwest card game, Euchre. Barry Sanders is my favorite running back.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I haven’t trained specifically for a competitive half marathon yet, so I’m curious to see how I’ll do against some great competition. Also, my main training partner, Joe, grew up in Michigan, and always raves about this event, so here we are :). Give him some hometown love as he is pursuing the sub 70 barrier. Bib number is ‘Let’s Go Joe’
Profession: Mental Health Therapist
Instagram: @dmeyrer
Personal best time: 13:40, 29:07, 67 mins, 2:21
Career highlights: 16th at NCAA Cross 2019 / 2nd at Austin Marathon
Favorite quote: “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” – Carl Rogers
Fun fact(s) about you: I represented Germany for 5k in a European Championship
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because DET is home. Who doesn’t want to race at home?
Women’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: R&D Medical Device Engineer
Instagram: @stephsherm20
Personal best time: 2:34:34 Marathon; 1:14:40 Half Marathon; 33:25 Track 10k
Career highlights: 2024 US Olympic Team Marathon Trials Participant; 2021 Second Team All-American 10km
Favorite quote: Run often, run long, but never outrun your joy of running.
Fun fact(s) about you: I love to golf and enjoy outdoor activities. I’ve been running since I was in kindergarten.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m racing Detroit because I lived in Rochester Hills for 2.5 years and kept hearing about the Detroit Free Press race. This race will be a fantastic last workout prior to competing in a later Fall marathon (due to time constraints in training).
Profession: Physical Therapy Student
Personal best time: 16:08 5k, 34:00 10k
Career highlights: Placed third in the 5k at the 2024 NCAA DII Indoor Championships. Finished in second place in the 1 mile at the 2023 NCAA DIII Indoor Championships. Finished third in the 5k and fourth in the 10k at the 2023 NCAA DIII Outdoor Championships.
Favorite quote: “Not all those who wander are lost” – J.R.R. Tolkien
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a triplet!
Why are you racing Detroit?: This seems like a great race to run my first half marathon, and I am looking forward to a new challenge after recovering from an injury I had in 2024.
Profession: Stay at home mom/mental health therapist
Instagram: @Marianicolelindberg
Personal best time: 1 mile -4:49, 5K- 16:13, 10k- 33:52, 13.1- 1:15:34, marathon – 2:39:34
Career highlights: 4x all American at Boston College in cross country and track field, school record holder, Illinois state, champion, and cross country and track, Bayshore marathon champion, rock ‘n’ roll Arizona marathon champion, Grand Rapids, marathon champion, Wilmington marathon, champion.
Favorite quote: Keep showing up- des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: My marathon time keeps improving as I get older!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Last year I had so much fun running the marathon. I am back to do the half marathon.
Profession: Physician Assistant
Instagram: @marathoner_mo
Personal best time: Marathon- 2:40:06, half marathon- 1:18:08
Career highlights: Winning the Bayshore Marathon earlier this year!
Favorite quote: “Keep showing up.” -Des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: If you see me on the course, I’m probably thinking about what kind of ice cream I’ll treat myself to afterward (recommendations welcome!).
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m super excited to experience an international race, and to share the course with some of my friends while being part of such a supportive community.
Profession: Actuary
Instagram: @lucyhdobbs
Personal best time: 2:36:33 Marathon, 1:16:38 HM
Career highlights: 2024 Marathon OTQ
Favorite quote: “All growth happens at the end of your comfort zone.” – Chad E Foster
Fun fact(s) about you: Outside of running and racing, my other hobby is riding jumping horses!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m racing Detroit to experience the atmosphere! I’ve heard great things and can’t wait to run my first “international” race!
Profession: Economics Professor
Personal best time: 5K 17:08, half marathon 1:18:16, marathon 2:50:46
Career highlights: Winning the 10K and XC races at the world masters athletics championships indoor 2025. Winning Masters USATF 1 mile 2023, Setting a 5K PR at age 43.
Favorite quote: Run the first 2/3 of thr race with your head and the last 1/3 with your heart.
Fun fact(s) about you: I won a trail half marathon 6 months pregnant with our son. 🤰🏻🏃♀️
Why are you racing Detroit?: There’s nothing like seeing that sun rise as we run over the ambassador bridge!
Profession: Scientist
Instagram: @ryenmfrazier
Personal best time: 1:18:58 (half), 16:02 (5k), 34:43 (10k)
Career highlights: NC State XC 2015-2021
Favorite quote: “Happiness is an attitude”
Fun fact(s) about you: Recently moved to Detroit!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I heard it’s a huge event and love that we get to run internationally during the race.
Profession: English faculty at University of Michigan
Personal best time: 1:19:17 half, 17:13 5k
Career highlights: Getting faster as I get older
Favorite quote: “It’s going to be as hard as it needs to be, and my job is to not chicken out.” —George Saunders
Fun fact(s) about you: No one cooks worse chicken
Why are you racing Detroit?: To see how fast I can go
Profession: Professional Triathlete & Endurance Coach
Instagram: @olivia.dietzel
Personal best time: Half: 1:19:34, 10K (during an Olympic distance triathlon): 36:59, 5K: 17:35, Half during a 70.3 triathlon: 1:23:33, Marathon during an Ironman triathlon: 3:02:42
Career highlights: 15th at USATF 15K National Championships, Female Champion Greek Hero XTRI, Female Champion Fodaxman XTRI, Female Champion Serranoman Extreme Triathlon
Favorite quote: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a professional triathlete who specializes in extreme Ironman distance triathlons. I’ve completed 31 full ironman distance triathlons. I own an endurance coaching company called Tussle Endurance. I didn’t run collegiately because my high school track coach deemed me not worth investing in. I started a Mind Over Matter fundraising platform that raises money for brain cancer research in honor of my late father. I founded and am the race director for the annual Mind Over Matter Triathlon in which all proceeds go to brain cancer research at the University of Iowa.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love racing and am always looking for fun new challenges that also provide good training days for extreme triathlons and Ironman triathlons.
Presenting the Elite Runners of the Detroit Free Press Marathon 2025!
The Detroit Free Press Marathon, presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, is thrilled to unveil its prestigious Elite Field for 2025. As part of our enduring commitment to elevate the race’s prominence and foster a culture of excellence in distance running, we are honored to welcome an exceptional cohort of elite athletes from across Metro Detroit, Michigan, Canada, and the United States.
Men’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Software Engineer
Personal best time: 13:24 – 5k, 28:21 – 10k, 62:15 – Half
Career highlights: Running in a Michigan uniform at the US Olympic Trials
Favorite quote: “The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something” – President Barack Obama
Fun fact(s) about you: Went to Michigan in spite of my name (Tom Brady)
Why are you racing Detroit?: My partner’s family is from southeast Michigan and I’m a proud Michigan alum. To have my first marathon in a place so familiar with my family and her’s cheering me on will be special.
Profession: Coach and Co-Owner of RTTW LLC
Instagram: @andyb_xc3
Personal best time: 2:14:19 CIM Marathon
Career highlights: Winning the Free Press with my Wife 2024
Favorite quote: “Most people never run far enough on their first wind to find out they’ve got a second.” — William James
Fun fact(s) about you: GLR/MOR (Michigan trail race) is where I met my wife and where I proposed.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Home town race, can’t pass up on it!
Profession: Supply Chain Master Planner
Instagram: @toast_joost
Personal best time: 2:16:47 – full marathon. Too old to use any college PBs anymore lol
Career highlights: Winning the Detroit Half in 2023, OTQ’ing at CIM in 2023.
Favorite quote: “C’mon with the c’mon”
Fun fact(s) about you: My first time running the Detroit Half was my first time ever in Canada
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hopefully chase a new PB but at the very least it’s nice to have something to build back fitness for.
Profession: Advertising
Instagram: @xcmora18
Personal best time: Marathon 2:20:13
Career highlights: 35th place and a new personal best at NYC in 2024
Favorite quote: “Stay hungry, stay foolish”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a cat with no tail and I sell vintage furniture as a side hobby.
Why are you racing Detroit?: To compete and have fun!
Profession: Economist
Instagram: @zane_aldrich_
Personal best time: 5k – 14:08, 10k- 29:36, Half Marathon – 1:06:06
Career highlights: Division 2 National appearances in XC with Northwood University in 2021-2022, Mile School Record Holder @ Whittemore-Prescott High School (4:31)
Favorite quote: “If you think you can’t, you won’t. If you think you might, you might not. If you tell yourself you will, and hold onto that when it’s easy and when it’s hard, you’ll do it” adapted from Coach Kushion
Fun fact(s) about you: My biggest training partner is my golden retriever Zoom who always makes sure recovery pace stays leisurely.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I heard you cross the bridge into Canada for this race. I’m hoping to get my hands on some maple syrup while I’m over there.
Profession: Applied Physics PhD Student at University of Michigan
Personal best time: 14:19 5k, 29:56 10k
Career highlights: Getting all-american in the 2022 D3 XC National Championships
Fun fact(s) about you: i like to run
Why are you racing Detroit?: To push myself to become better
Profession: Insurance Agent
Instagram: @noah_verlinde
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:21, Half – 69:12, 10k – 30:10, 5k-14:31, 3k – 8:22, Mile – 4:14
Career highlights: 2nd place finish at the Bayshore Marathon & 3rd place GLIAC 5k (2024)
Favorite quote: “If there is no struggle, there is no progress” – Frederick Douglas
Fun fact(s) about you: I was born in Seoul, South Korea.
Why are you racing Detroit?: The community revolved around this event has been wha five heard most, and I am honored to be apart of this years race!
Profession: Civil Engineer
Instagram: @runner_derek
Personal best time: 2:21:43 (Marathon)
Career highlights: MIAA Conference Champion in college, 2nd place at Toledo Marathon 2023 and beating a few OTQ athletes
Favorite quote: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take – Wayne Gretzky” – Michael Scott
Fun fact(s) about you: I grew up Amish and was Amish for 16 years of my life.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I am racing Detroit because I love marathons in midwest cities and it is close to home. I have heard great things about Detroit and it will be cool to run through Canada for a little bit.
Profession: Software Engineer
Personal best time: 67:30, 2:23:29
Career highlights: 3 time Wisconsin Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run from Cerró de la Muerte to the Pacific Ocean
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was planning on running Detroit in 2024 for an over due PR but had to pull out due to injury. This year I’m looking to run fast and be competitive upfront.
Profession: Manufacturing Engineer
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:25:26, 10 Mile – 52:20
Career highlights: 2x GLR podium finish
Favorite quote: Great moments are born from great opportunity.
Fun fact(s) about you: In golf, I broke 80 before breaking 90. But to this day, I still struggle to break 90.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit will be a Hometown race! This will be my first Detroit Marathon, and it is exciting to be a part of Detroit’s 2nd elite field ever. Also excited to see many familiar faces on the course!
Profession: Account Executive
Instagram: @mgravelyn89
Personal best time: 2:23:46
Career highlights: 6 completed marathons, all under 2:30. Personal best completed at Bayshore Marathon 2025, 2:23:46
Favorite quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” ― Oscar Wilde
Fun fact(s) about you: Former home brewer
Why are you racing Detroit?: Next on the list!
Profession: Assistant Superintendent – Lutheran High School Association of Greater Detroit
Personal best time: 2:28:34 (Marathon), 1:08:38 (Half), 30:33 (10,000), 14:34 (5,000)
Career highlights: 4th place at Detroit Free Press in 2023. DIII NCAA 5,000, 10,000, and cross country All-American.
Favorite quote: Run with perseverance the race marked out for us. -Hebrews 12:1
Fun fact(s) about you: I have 6 amazing kids that keep life exciting and busy. I’m also no longer the fastest in the household.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit is a top tier US marathon and I love competing so close to home. I ran ’23 and ’24 and am looking forward to another successful race in ’25.
Profession: Teacher
Instagram: @iancook23
Personal best time: 2:36:23 full, 70:07 half, 31:10 10k
Career highlights: Winning the Logroño International Half Marathon, lining up behind Yomif Kejelcha and Joshua Cheptegei TWICE! (And then getting obliterated by them)
Favorite quote: “Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens” -Gimli in The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Fun fact(s) about you: I do a deadly karaoke Jim Morrison on Roadhouse Blues by The Doors
Why are you racing Detroit?: To run fast in Michigan!
Profession: Pro Barista, Freelance Videographer
Instagram: @_nate_pearson
Personal best time: 10k: 32:52, Half Marathon: 1:11:46, Marathon: 2:29:04
Career highlights: 99th at CIM in 2024, 61st at Grandma’s Marathon in 2025
Favorite quote: “Thwart institutional cowardice” -Werner Herzog
Fun fact(s) about you: I play bass guitar and make a mean omelette.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I just want to get in there and race the competition—and hopefully run fast along the way!
Profession: Law Student
Instagram: @a.denny03
Personal best time: 1:09:22 half marathon, 2:29:47 full marathon
Career highlights: Qualifying for the Chicago Marathon American Development Program
Favorite quote: “All I want to do is drink beer and train like an animal.” -Rod Dixon
Fun fact(s) about you: I have kept every race bib from every race I’ve done, going back to my very first in 2001.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Marathon running is a fun way to see many miles of a city with a new perspective. I really love the city of Detroit, and there is a Lions game at Ford Field the next day, so the choice was easy!
Profession: New Balance tech rep
Instagram: @aidanbustillo
Personal best time: 14:56 5k, 53:31 10 mile, 1:10:36 half marathon, 2:31:03 marathon
Career highlights: 2022 NIRCA XC All-American, 2nd at 2019 Chocolate Milk Mile
Favorite quote: “He ran not for crypto-religious reasons, but to win races, to cover ground fast. Not only to be better than his fellows, but better than himself. To be faster by a tenth of a second, by an inch, by two feet or two yards, than he had been the week or year before… Running to him was real; the way he did it the realest thing he knew.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I can solve a Rubik’s cube faster than I can run 200m.
Why are you racing Detroit?: As a southeast Michigan native, Detroit is as close to a hometown major marathon that I can imagine. I had a great experience being in the elite field last year for the half marathon, and am looking forward to trying to rewrite an almost 3 year old PR after a long time away from the full marathon distance!
Women’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Running Coach and Marine Biologist
Instagram: @christinajwelsh
Personal best time: 2:33:00 from the 2022 Houston Marathon
Career highlights: Running the Olympic Trials in Orlando. It wasn’t a PR, but it was so great to have so many friends and family come out to support that weekend.
Favorite quote: “Listen to your heart (no)” – Greg Katz
Fun fact(s) about you: For my PhD research, I meaure VO2 max in fish
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’ve never been to Detroit, and I want to see something new during this marathon!
Profession: Occupational Therapist
Instagram: @brittney___hall
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:36:28 Half Marathon: 1:16:18
Career highlights: Qualifying in the Marathon for the US 2024 Olympic Trials
Favorite quote: Sometimes I’ll start a sentence and I don’t even know where it’s going. I just hope I find it along the way. — Michael Scott (The Office)
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a cat named Junie who low key might just be a dog. She comes when she’s called, always right at the door when I come home, glued to my side throughout the day, and can sit on command!
Why are you racing Detroit?: The Detroit marathon had been on my bucket list to race since I’ve started training for marathons. My mom is Canadian so I will have family on both sides of the border cheering me on! This will be my first marathon in over a year and I am very excited to toe the starting line!
Profession: Gymnastics coach
Instagram: @alexruns42k
Personal best time: 50k 3:25:12; marathon 2:40:43; half marathon 1:18:38
Career highlights: Being named to the US 50k 2023 world championship team and competing at the 50k World Championships in Hyderabad, India. Winning the 2022 US 50k National Championship. Qualifying for and competing at the 2020 US Olympic Marathon Trials.
Favorite quote: Somewhere someone is training when you are not. When you race him, he will win. – Tom Fleming
Fun fact(s) about you: I was a competitive gymnast through college and didn’t start running until after I graduated. My first coach was Tom Fleming who coached me until he passed in 2017. I have a rescue senior pitbull named Peaches and no she does not run with me.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s a race I’ve never done but I have raced often in Michigan (Crim 10 miler and the 25k championship usually held in Grand Rapids) as I have family in Michigan. My cousin ran Detroit and said it was a good course and I was looking for a potentially fast course that I haven’t previously run.
Profession: I recently graduated with a degree in Elementary Eduaction, and am want to explore my passion for athletics and am now working as a Social Media Manager for a local race company!
Instagram: @rreaganjustice
Personal best time: 10k: 34:52 5k: 16:41
Career highlights: I was grateful to earn All American in the NCAA d2 Xc championships! I was a national qualifier this past spring in the 10k, and a 3 time conference champion!
Favorite quote: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift!”
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve been running since middle school, but I actually used to do competitive dance for 10 ish years!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Being a recent graduate from Wayne State, Detroit feels like a second home! I can’t wait to rep Wayne State again in such a wonderful place. The city means so much to me and there’s no other place I’d want to shoot my shot at a marathon!
Profession: Teacher
Personal best time: 10k- 35:31, 1/2 marathon – 1:18:21, marathon 2:53:00
Career highlights: 2nd place Richmond Marathon, Boston Marathon finisher, 1st place New River 50k
Favorite quote: “It just doesn’t matter! It just doesn’t matter!” -Bill Murray
Fun fact(s) about you: I have 3 dogs. Two chocolate labs- Holly and Maple, and a Corrie named Evie.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My dad grew up in Detroit and my mom grew up in a small town not far from Detroit. She passed away in April. Training for this was a great way to help process such a big loss.
Profession: Mortgage Agent
Instagram: @analau_77
Personal best time: 2:46:40
Career highlights: Winner of Marathon du P’tit train du Nord 2023. Winner of the Toronto Marathon (May race) 2025. 3rd F45-49 at the Boston Marathon 2023. Canadian Masters Athletics National Marathon Champion F45-49 2022 & 2024, National 10K Champion F45-49 2023.
Favorite quote: I don’t run to add days to my life. I run to add life to my days. – Ronald Rook.
Fun fact(s) about you: Born in Mexico, moved to Canada at the age of 23 which means I now have lived more than 50% of my life in Canada. I am a huge Darts fan.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have ran 27 marathons. Detroit is a race I haven’t run & I’ve heard great things about it. It’s also close to Canada & running on the Ambassador Bridge sounds like it would be so fun!
Profession: Electrical Engineer
Instagram: @_asherm
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:49, 10k: 35:07, 5k: 16:47
Career highlights: Runner up at the 2023 Horizon League Cross Country Championships, The University of Detroit Mercy School Record in 5k and 10k
Favorite quote: “Keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground” – Theodore Roosevelt
Fun fact(s) about you: I quit playing soccer because I didn’t like running when I was little
Why are you racing Detroit?: Want to run a marathon in the city I love and went to college in for 5 years
Profession: Medical Student (M1)
Instagram: @g7ace_
Personal best time: 1 Mile (5:05), 3000 (9:47), 5000 (16:38), 10000 (34:14), 13.1 (1:18:33)
Career highlights: Placed 38th at the NCAA East Regional XC 2024 (6k, 20:32), set a new Horizon League meet record as conference champion (2025) in the 10,000m with a time of 34:17.
Favorite quote: “It doesn’t matter if you fall short; it is never a failure to go after your goals with everything you’ve got.” — Michael Phelps
Fun fact(s) about you: I attended Oakland University for undergraduate, graduate, and now medical school– Go Grizz!!
Why are you racing Detroit?: After graduating from Oakland University in the spring and completing my NCAA eligibility, my love and passion for the sport stayed strong. As I made the transition into medical school, I knew that I wanted to keep running a priority in my life. Detroit will be my first marathon, and the first ‘big’ race of my post-collegiate running career.
Profession: Coach and physical therapist
Instagram: @melissakesslerdpt
Personal best time: Marathon 2:51:49, 5k masters 18:08, 25k 1:39:21
Career highlights: 1st place masters female 2025 Riverbank run, 1st place masters female 2024 Richmond Marathon, 5th place masters female 2024 Crim 10 mile
Favorite quote: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” -Mary Oliver
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a mom to 3 wonderful kids, and enjoy reading, knitting, and always love a run with a friend.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I am a former DII collegiate runner and took 11 years off from competitive running for school and to start a family. During Covid, my husband Justin encouraged me to get back into running and it has opened doors for me to explore new career opportunities, travel, and explore my limits as a masters runner. I am running Detroit to try for another PR and to reminisce as I used to run on the streets of Detroit in college with some of my closest friends I have to this day. I’ve taken 28 minutes off my marathon PR in the last 2 years and this course would be incredibly special to continue to improve on that.
Profession: Electrical Engineer
Instagram: @Kayla.Hughes
Personal best time: 2:50:34 marathon, 1:23:42 HM
Career highlights: 4th at Detroit Marathon 2024
Favorite quote: Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right – Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I adopted a retired racing greyhound
Why are you racing Detroit?: I need to see that view of the sunrise at the top of the Ambassador bridge again
Profession: Physical Therapist
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:55:04; Half Marathon- 1:27:56
Career highlights: Breaking 3 hours in the marathon at the Columbus Marathon last fall! I never thought breaking 3 was in the cards for me.
Favorite quote: This too shall pass.
Fun fact(s) about you: I ran my first ultra earlier this year and surprisingly I loved it. I could definitely see myself transitioning to the ultra world in the somewhat near future!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love the energy in Detroit, as well as the course. It’s my hometown marathon!
Profession: Nurse Practitioner
Instagram: @jesszang
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:55:11
Career highlights: Forming amazing friendships with my teammates at ISU and UK and being coached by the amazing John Gartland. Was able to compete in the Burning River 100 mile relay this year with an awesome group of people and finished 3rd!
Favorite quote: “You don’t have to win, to win” – Nicole Jenkins
Fun fact(s) about you: I run so I can stay in shape for my true love of skiing! I’m also an avid baker and love making sourdough for friends and family
Why are you racing Detroit?: I had an amazing time last year meeting so many incredible people. The course is beautiful and the elite team was really well organized. Looking forward to being a part of the team again this year!
Profession: Director of Operations at Epic Races
Instagram: @angelacarron37
Personal best time: 2:55:31 – 2025 Boston Marathon, 1:24:12 – 2025 Rock CF Half Marathon. Like a fine wine, getting better with age. Who knew?!!
Career highlights: Running 150 marathons. I love this distance. I have seen my best and worst in it over the years and I truly believe there are no race day conditions I cannot overcome with the power of a positive mind:)
Favorite quote: “Nobody Cares, Work Harder.” – Jocko Willink
Fun fact(s) about you: I get to race in the Elite Field with my daughter, Reagan Justice!! She ran her first half marathon at age 12 and since then I’ve been dreaming of the day we would toe the line of 26.2 together. Never in a million years did I think I would still be fast enough, at the age of 47, to line up alongside her in the Elite Field at Detroit Marathon. It’s like a dream come true<3 Why are you racing Detroit?: I love this race and have had total FOMO every time I don’t sign up. This will be my 15th DFPM event. 13th time running the marathon. This race’s vibe is unmatched. I absolutely LOVE it!
Profession: Retired General Motors Supply Chain Executive
Personal best time: 2000 Las Vegas Marathon 2:50:44
Career highlights: Set a new Boston Marathon age group record at the 2025 Boston Marathon by almost 6 minutes in a time of 2:58:02 1st place in age group in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Boston Marathons Have run 72 total marathons and 19 Boston marathons Won the 2000 Detroit Marathon Won the 2003 Flying Pig Cincinnati Marathon Also won the Glass City Toledo, Bayshore Traverse City and Smokey Mountain Tennessee marathons USA national age group record holder in 12K (2021), 1 Mile (2025), 3000 Indoor Track (2025), 5000 Outdoor Track (2025)
Favorite quote: No regrets!
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve won the female overall Arnold Pump and Run 11 times! ( bench press & 5k combo)
Why are you racing Detroit?: Love the course!!! And it’s close to home!
Profession: Consumer Products Strategy
Instagram: @kate.gunson
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:52:18; 1/2 Marathon: 1:23:13; 10k: 38:24; 5k: 18:18
Career highlights: NA
Favorite quote: “Energy and persistence conquer all things” – Benjamin Franklin
Fun fact(s) about you: Detroit will be my 16th marathon!
Why are you racing Detroit?: After several years of doing Boston / Chicago as my two marathons each year, I’m trying to switch it up and see other cities through running!
Men’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Senior Research Analyst
Instagram: @ethanjhermann
Personal best time: 1:04:51 Half Marathon, 4:08.97 Mile
Career highlights: 2-Time Winner of the Hartford Half Marathon (2023,2024) | 8th Place at the 2021 Philadelphia Half Marathon
Favorite quote: “Water always seeks its own level” – a quote passed down from my Dad’s side of the family.
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run with an adult track club since being a freshman in college [my school didn’t have a team], I am a part-time bartender, and I love traveling to new states for races!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted to have a great half marathon in October to set up success for my marathon this fall, and I am going to a wedding the week of the one I usually go to (Hartford). Zach, the elite coordinator, graciously reached out unprompted and urged me to come race at Detroit. After having several friends and running acquaintances compete and leave glowing reviews of the course and organization and crowds, the answer was quite easy. I’m super excited for my first time in Detroit!
Profession: Student
Instagram: @alex_penski
Personal best time: 14:02 5k, 8:04 3k
Career highlights: All B1G 2nd team for XC (2023)
Favorite quote: “With great power comes great responsibility”- Uncle Ben
Fun fact(s) about you: •I’m a Leo •I’m left handed •If Im not running or working or studying, I’m most likely watching a movie •I ran for MSU (Go Green!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love the idea of racing my first half marathon locally (compared to other well known (half) marathons around the world).
Profession: Engineer at Eli Lilly & co.
Instagram: @calebjkerr
Personal best time: M: 2:14:50, HM: 1:04:36, 10k: 29:04, 5k: 14:16
Career highlights: 2020 and 2024 US Olympic Marathon Trials (59th and 48th). 4xUSATF Indiana Long Distance Runner of the Year. 9th at 2022 USATF HM Championships
Favorite quote: It is hard to fail but it is worse to have never tried to succeed – Teddy Roosevelt
Fun fact(s) about you: My wife Katie is the Purdue school record holder in the mile. I got my private pilot’s license last year.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My brother in law David (Ann Arbor, MI resident) convinced me to do it!
Profession: Tax Accountant
Personal best time: 2:24:53 Full | 65:35 Half | 30:05 10K | 14:47 5K
Career highlights: Ran 31:05 10K 5 days after Boston
Favorite quote: “Remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” —Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I reenacted Seinfeld standup for my company talent show
Why are you racing Detroit?: My coach’s marathon PR is here, and running across the border is very cool!
Profession: Emergency Physician
Instagram: @morsirayyan
Personal best time: HM 66:24, 10k 29:12, 5k 13:57, mile 4:03, 1500 3:46
Career highlights: Making the NCAA national championship twice in college in the 10k and winning the Detroit International Half Marathon three times.
Favorite quote: At the end of the day, you just have to go out there and compete.
Fun fact(s) about you: My dog Galaxy is my favorite running buddy.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s an amazing race atmosphere and nothing beats running across the bridge as the sun comes up!
Profession: Graduate Student at Oakland University
Instagram: @himichaelhancock
Personal best time: 4:02 Road Mile, 8:11 3k
Career highlights: Nike Cross Nationals and Footlocker Nationals Qualifier. Represented the USA at the 2019 World Mountain Running Championships. Went to Michigan for Track and Cross Country.
Favorite quote: Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a twin and did all my running success while chasing him
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit is the first city I ever knew. It is home for me on the grand scale coming from Dearborn. I want to be apart of its revival.
Profession: IT Systems Analyst
Instagram: @adann01
Personal best time: Half Marathon – 1:07:00; 10k – 29:57; 5k – 14:08; 3k – 8:09
Career highlights: Running across the desert from Los Angeles to Las Vegas with my friends earlier this year as well as witnessing a buddy of mine win the 2021 MVC Steeplechase
Favorite quote: “Every day above ground is a great day, remember that” – Pitbull
Fun fact(s) about you: My first and only time being in Canada was at this race last year. Excited for trip number two
Why are you racing Detroit?: To get after it and have a great time doing it
Profession: Data Analyst
Instagram: @akimpel91
Personal best time: HM: 67:13, Marathon: 2:25, 8k XC: 23:27, 5k: 14:02, 1500m: 3:46
Career highlights: Three top 20 finishes at the Bloomsday 12k Run. 7th at the 2024 Boulevard Race. 4th at XTERRA 2024 World Trail Marathon Champs.
Favorite quote: Be kind. Work hard. Be wise in time. Be present. Forgive. – Coach Jon Knight
Fun fact(s) about you: This will be my first time in Michigan! I’m a road/trail hybrid runner of sorts, and have completed a 50k and 100k trail race. I’m a stereotypical Washingtonian and own a Subaru. I’ve been taught how to play the midwest card game, Euchre. Barry Sanders is my favorite running back.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I haven’t trained specifically for a competitive half marathon yet, so I’m curious to see how I’ll do against some great competition. Also, my main training partner, Joe, grew up in Michigan, and always raves about this event, so here we are :). Give him some hometown love as he is pursuing the sub 70 barrier. Bib number is ‘Let’s Go Joe’
Profession: Mental Health Therapist
Instagram: @dmeyrer
Personal best time: 13:40, 29:07, 67 mins, 2:21
Career highlights: 16th at NCAA Cross 2019 / 2nd at Austin Marathon
Favorite quote: “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” – Carl Rogers
Fun fact(s) about you: I represented Germany for 5k in a European Championship
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because DET is home. Who doesn’t want to race at home?
Women’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: R&D Medical Device Engineer
Instagram: @stephsherm20
Personal best time: 2:34:34 Marathon; 1:14:40 Half Marathon; 33:25 Track 10k
Career highlights: 2024 US Olympic Team Marathon Trials Participant; 2021 Second Team All-American 10km
Favorite quote: Run often, run long, but never outrun your joy of running.
Fun fact(s) about you: I love to golf and enjoy outdoor activities. I’ve been running since I was in kindergarten.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m racing Detroit because I lived in Rochester Hills for 2.5 years and kept hearing about the Detroit Free Press race. This race will be a fantastic last workout prior to competing in a later Fall marathon (due to time constraints in training).
Profession: Physical Therapy Student
Personal best time: 16:08 5k, 34:00 10k
Career highlights: Placed third in the 5k at the 2024 NCAA DII Indoor Championships. Finished in second place in the 1 mile at the 2023 NCAA DIII Indoor Championships. Finished third in the 5k and fourth in the 10k at the 2023 NCAA DIII Outdoor Championships.
Favorite quote: “Not all those who wander are lost” – J.R.R. Tolkien
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a triplet!
Why are you racing Detroit?: This seems like a great race to run my first half marathon, and I am looking forward to a new challenge after recovering from an injury I had in 2024.
Profession: Stay at home mom/mental health therapist
Instagram: @Marianicolelindberg
Personal best time: 1 mile -4:49, 5K- 16:13, 10k- 33:52, 13.1- 1:15:34, marathon – 2:39:34
Career highlights: 4x all American at Boston College in cross country and track field, school record holder, Illinois state, champion, and cross country and track, Bayshore marathon champion, rock ‘n’ roll Arizona marathon champion, Grand Rapids, marathon champion, Wilmington marathon, champion.
Favorite quote: Keep showing up- des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: My marathon time keeps improving as I get older!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Last year I had so much fun running the marathon. I am back to do the half marathon.
Profession: Physician Assistant
Instagram: @marathoner_mo
Personal best time: Marathon- 2:40:06, half marathon- 1:18:08
Career highlights: Winning the Bayshore Marathon earlier this year!
Favorite quote: “Keep showing up.” -Des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: If you see me on the course, I’m probably thinking about what kind of ice cream I’ll treat myself to afterward (recommendations welcome!).
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m super excited to experience an international race, and to share the course with some of my friends while being part of such a supportive community.
Profession: Actuary
Instagram: @lucyhdobbs
Personal best time: 2:36:33 Marathon, 1:16:38 HM
Career highlights: 2024 Marathon OTQ
Favorite quote: “All growth happens at the end of your comfort zone.” – Chad E Foster
Fun fact(s) about you: Outside of running and racing, my other hobby is riding jumping horses!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m racing Detroit to experience the atmosphere! I’ve heard great things and can’t wait to run my first “international” race!
Profession: Economics Professor
Personal best time: 5K 17:08, half marathon 1:18:16, marathon 2:50:46
Career highlights: Winning the 10K and XC races at the world masters athletics championships indoor 2025. Winning Masters USATF 1 mile 2023, Setting a 5K PR at age 43.
Favorite quote: Run the first 2/3 of thr race with your head and the last 1/3 with your heart.
Fun fact(s) about you: I won a trail half marathon 6 months pregnant with our son. 🤰🏻🏃♀️
Why are you racing Detroit?: There’s nothing like seeing that sun rise as we run over the ambassador bridge!
Profession: Scientist
Instagram: @ryenmfrazier
Personal best time: 1:18:58 (half), 16:02 (5k), 34:43 (10k)
Career highlights: NC State XC 2015-2021
Favorite quote: “Happiness is an attitude”
Fun fact(s) about you: Recently moved to Detroit!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I heard it’s a huge event and love that we get to run internationally during the race.
Profession: English faculty at University of Michigan
Personal best time: 1:19:17 half, 17:13 5k
Career highlights: Getting faster as I get older
Favorite quote: “It’s going to be as hard as it needs to be, and my job is to not chicken out.” —George Saunders
Fun fact(s) about you: No one cooks worse chicken
Why are you racing Detroit?: To see how fast I can go
Profession: Professional Triathlete & Endurance Coach
Instagram: @olivia.dietzel
Personal best time: Half: 1:19:34, 10K (during an Olympic distance triathlon): 36:59, 5K: 17:35, Half during a 70.3 triathlon: 1:23:33, Marathon during an Ironman triathlon: 3:02:42
Career highlights: 15th at USATF 15K National Championships, Female Champion Greek Hero XTRI, Female Champion Fodaxman XTRI, Female Champion Serranoman Extreme Triathlon
Favorite quote: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a professional triathlete who specializes in extreme Ironman distance triathlons. I’ve completed 31 full ironman distance triathlons. I own an endurance coaching company called Tussle Endurance. I didn’t run collegiately because my high school track coach deemed me not worth investing in. I started a Mind Over Matter fundraising platform that raises money for brain cancer research in honor of my late father. I founded and am the race director for the annual Mind Over Matter Triathlon in which all proceeds go to brain cancer research at the University of Iowa.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love racing and am always looking for fun new challenges that also provide good training days for extreme triathlons and Ironman triathlons.
Presenting the Elite Runners of the Detroit Free Press Marathon 2025!
The Detroit Free Press Marathon, presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, is thrilled to unveil its prestigious Elite Field for 2025. As part of our enduring commitment to elevate the race’s prominence and foster a culture of excellence in distance running, we are honored to welcome an exceptional cohort of elite athletes from across Metro Detroit, Michigan, Canada, and the United States.
Men’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Software Engineer
Personal best time: 13:24 – 5k, 28:21 – 10k, 62:15 – Half
Career highlights: Running in a Michigan uniform at the US Olympic Trials
Favorite quote: “The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something” – President Barack Obama
Fun fact(s) about you: Went to Michigan in spite of my name (Tom Brady)
Why are you racing Detroit?: My partner’s family is from southeast Michigan and I’m a proud Michigan alum. To have my first marathon in a place so familiar with my family and her’s cheering me on will be special.
Profession: Coach and Co-Owner of RTTW LLC
Instagram: @andyb_xc3
Personal best time: 2:14:19 CIM Marathon
Career highlights: Winning the Free Press with my Wife 2024
Favorite quote: “Most people never run far enough on their first wind to find out they’ve got a second.” — William James
Fun fact(s) about you: GLR/MOR (Michigan trail race) is where I met my wife and where I proposed.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Home town race, can’t pass up on it!
Profession: Supply Chain Master Planner
Instagram: @toast_joost
Personal best time: 2:16:47 – full marathon. Too old to use any college PBs anymore lol
Career highlights: Winning the Detroit Half in 2023, OTQ’ing at CIM in 2023.
Favorite quote: “C’mon with the c’mon”
Fun fact(s) about you: My first time running the Detroit Half was my first time ever in Canada
Why are you racing Detroit?: Hopefully chase a new PB but at the very least it’s nice to have something to build back fitness for.
Profession: Advertising
Instagram: @xcmora18
Personal best time: Marathon 2:20:13
Career highlights: 35th place and a new personal best at NYC in 2024
Favorite quote: “Stay hungry, stay foolish”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a cat with no tail and I sell vintage furniture as a side hobby.
Why are you racing Detroit?: To compete and have fun!
Profession: Economist
Instagram: @zane_aldrich_
Personal best time: 5k – 14:08, 10k- 29:36, Half Marathon – 1:06:06
Career highlights: Division 2 National appearances in XC with Northwood University in 2021-2022, Mile School Record Holder @ Whittemore-Prescott High School (4:31)
Favorite quote: “If you think you can’t, you won’t. If you think you might, you might not. If you tell yourself you will, and hold onto that when it’s easy and when it’s hard, you’ll do it” adapted from Coach Kushion
Fun fact(s) about you: My biggest training partner is my golden retriever Zoom who always makes sure recovery pace stays leisurely.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I heard you cross the bridge into Canada for this race. I’m hoping to get my hands on some maple syrup while I’m over there.
Profession: Applied Physics PhD Student at University of Michigan
Personal best time: 14:19 5k, 29:56 10k
Career highlights: Getting all-american in the 2022 D3 XC National Championships
Fun fact(s) about you: i like to run
Why are you racing Detroit?: To push myself to become better
Profession: Insurance Agent
Instagram: @noah_verlinde
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:21, Half – 69:12, 10k – 30:10, 5k-14:31, 3k – 8:22, Mile – 4:14
Career highlights: 2nd place finish at the Bayshore Marathon & 3rd place GLIAC 5k (2024)
Favorite quote: “If there is no struggle, there is no progress” – Frederick Douglas
Fun fact(s) about you: I was born in Seoul, South Korea.
Why are you racing Detroit?: The community revolved around this event has been wha five heard most, and I am honored to be apart of this years race!
Profession: Civil Engineer
Instagram: @runner_derek
Personal best time: 2:21:43 (Marathon)
Career highlights: MIAA Conference Champion in college, 2nd place at Toledo Marathon 2023 and beating a few OTQ athletes
Favorite quote: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take – Wayne Gretzky” – Michael Scott
Fun fact(s) about you: I grew up Amish and was Amish for 16 years of my life.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I am racing Detroit because I love marathons in midwest cities and it is close to home. I have heard great things about Detroit and it will be cool to run through Canada for a little bit.
Profession: Software Engineer
Personal best time: 67:30, 2:23:29
Career highlights: 3 time Wisconsin Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run from Cerró de la Muerte to the Pacific Ocean
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was planning on running Detroit in 2024 for an over due PR but had to pull out due to injury. This year I’m looking to run fast and be competitive upfront.
Profession: Manufacturing Engineer
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:25:26, 10 Mile – 52:20
Career highlights: 2x GLR podium finish
Favorite quote: Great moments are born from great opportunity.
Fun fact(s) about you: In golf, I broke 80 before breaking 90. But to this day, I still struggle to break 90.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit will be a Hometown race! This will be my first Detroit Marathon, and it is exciting to be a part of Detroit’s 2nd elite field ever. Also excited to see many familiar faces on the course!
Profession: Account Executive
Instagram: @mgravelyn89
Personal best time: 2:23:46
Career highlights: 6 completed marathons, all under 2:30. Personal best completed at Bayshore Marathon 2025, 2:23:46
Favorite quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” ― Oscar Wilde
Fun fact(s) about you: Former home brewer
Why are you racing Detroit?: Next on the list!
Profession: Assistant Superintendent – Lutheran High School Association of Greater Detroit
Personal best time: 2:28:34 (Marathon), 1:08:38 (Half), 30:33 (10,000), 14:34 (5,000)
Career highlights: 4th place at Detroit Free Press in 2023. DIII NCAA 5,000, 10,000, and cross country All-American.
Favorite quote: Run with perseverance the race marked out for us. -Hebrews 12:1
Fun fact(s) about you: I have 6 amazing kids that keep life exciting and busy. I’m also no longer the fastest in the household.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit is a top tier US marathon and I love competing so close to home. I ran ’23 and ’24 and am looking forward to another successful race in ’25.
Profession: Teacher
Instagram: @iancook23
Personal best time: 2:36:23 full, 70:07 half, 31:10 10k
Career highlights: Winning the Logroño International Half Marathon, lining up behind Yomif Kejelcha and Joshua Cheptegei TWICE! (And then getting obliterated by them)
Favorite quote: “Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens” -Gimli in The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Fun fact(s) about you: I do a deadly karaoke Jim Morrison on Roadhouse Blues by The Doors
Why are you racing Detroit?: To run fast in Michigan!
Profession: Pro Barista, Freelance Videographer
Instagram: @_nate_pearson
Personal best time: 10k: 32:52, Half Marathon: 1:11:46, Marathon: 2:29:04
Career highlights: 99th at CIM in 2024, 61st at Grandma’s Marathon in 2025
Favorite quote: “Thwart institutional cowardice” -Werner Herzog
Fun fact(s) about you: I play bass guitar and make a mean omelette.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I just want to get in there and race the competition—and hopefully run fast along the way!
Profession: Law Student
Instagram: @a.denny03
Personal best time: 1:09:22 half marathon, 2:29:47 full marathon
Career highlights: Qualifying for the Chicago Marathon American Development Program
Favorite quote: “All I want to do is drink beer and train like an animal.” -Rod Dixon
Fun fact(s) about you: I have kept every race bib from every race I’ve done, going back to my very first in 2001.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Marathon running is a fun way to see many miles of a city with a new perspective. I really love the city of Detroit, and there is a Lions game at Ford Field the next day, so the choice was easy!
Profession: New Balance tech rep
Instagram: @aidanbustillo
Personal best time: 14:56 5k, 53:31 10 mile, 1:10:36 half marathon, 2:31:03 marathon
Career highlights: 2022 NIRCA XC All-American, 2nd at 2019 Chocolate Milk Mile
Favorite quote: “He ran not for crypto-religious reasons, but to win races, to cover ground fast. Not only to be better than his fellows, but better than himself. To be faster by a tenth of a second, by an inch, by two feet or two yards, than he had been the week or year before… Running to him was real; the way he did it the realest thing he knew.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I can solve a Rubik’s cube faster than I can run 200m.
Why are you racing Detroit?: As a southeast Michigan native, Detroit is as close to a hometown major marathon that I can imagine. I had a great experience being in the elite field last year for the half marathon, and am looking forward to trying to rewrite an almost 3 year old PR after a long time away from the full marathon distance!
Women’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Running Coach and Marine Biologist
Instagram: @christinajwelsh
Personal best time: 2:33:00 from the 2022 Houston Marathon
Career highlights: Running the Olympic Trials in Orlando. It wasn’t a PR, but it was so great to have so many friends and family come out to support that weekend.
Favorite quote: “Listen to your heart (no)” – Greg Katz
Fun fact(s) about you: For my PhD research, I meaure VO2 max in fish
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’ve never been to Detroit, and I want to see something new during this marathon!
Profession: Occupational Therapist
Instagram: @brittney___hall
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:36:28 Half Marathon: 1:16:18
Career highlights: Qualifying in the Marathon for the US 2024 Olympic Trials
Favorite quote: Sometimes I’ll start a sentence and I don’t even know where it’s going. I just hope I find it along the way. — Michael Scott (The Office)
Fun fact(s) about you: I have a cat named Junie who low key might just be a dog. She comes when she’s called, always right at the door when I come home, glued to my side throughout the day, and can sit on command!
Why are you racing Detroit?: The Detroit marathon had been on my bucket list to race since I’ve started training for marathons. My mom is Canadian so I will have family on both sides of the border cheering me on! This will be my first marathon in over a year and I am very excited to toe the starting line!
Profession: Gymnastics coach
Instagram: @alexruns42k
Personal best time: 50k 3:25:12; marathon 2:40:43; half marathon 1:18:38
Career highlights: Being named to the US 50k 2023 world championship team and competing at the 50k World Championships in Hyderabad, India. Winning the 2022 US 50k National Championship. Qualifying for and competing at the 2020 US Olympic Marathon Trials.
Favorite quote: Somewhere someone is training when you are not. When you race him, he will win. – Tom Fleming
Fun fact(s) about you: I was a competitive gymnast through college and didn’t start running until after I graduated. My first coach was Tom Fleming who coached me until he passed in 2017. I have a rescue senior pitbull named Peaches and no she does not run with me.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s a race I’ve never done but I have raced often in Michigan (Crim 10 miler and the 25k championship usually held in Grand Rapids) as I have family in Michigan. My cousin ran Detroit and said it was a good course and I was looking for a potentially fast course that I haven’t previously run.
Profession: I recently graduated with a degree in Elementary Eduaction, and am want to explore my passion for athletics and am now working as a Social Media Manager for a local race company!
Instagram: @rreaganjustice
Personal best time: 10k: 34:52 5k: 16:41
Career highlights: I was grateful to earn All American in the NCAA d2 Xc championships! I was a national qualifier this past spring in the 10k, and a 3 time conference champion!
Favorite quote: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift!”
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve been running since middle school, but I actually used to do competitive dance for 10 ish years!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Being a recent graduate from Wayne State, Detroit feels like a second home! I can’t wait to rep Wayne State again in such a wonderful place. The city means so much to me and there’s no other place I’d want to shoot my shot at a marathon!
Profession: Teacher
Personal best time: 10k- 35:31, 1/2 marathon – 1:18:21, marathon 2:53:00
Career highlights: 2nd place Richmond Marathon, Boston Marathon finisher, 1st place New River 50k
Favorite quote: “It just doesn’t matter! It just doesn’t matter!” -Bill Murray
Fun fact(s) about you: I have 3 dogs. Two chocolate labs- Holly and Maple, and a Corrie named Evie.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My dad grew up in Detroit and my mom grew up in a small town not far from Detroit. She passed away in April. Training for this was a great way to help process such a big loss.
Profession: Mortgage Agent
Instagram: @analau_77
Personal best time: 2:46:40
Career highlights: Winner of Marathon du P’tit train du Nord 2023. Winner of the Toronto Marathon (May race) 2025. 3rd F45-49 at the Boston Marathon 2023. Canadian Masters Athletics National Marathon Champion F45-49 2022 & 2024, National 10K Champion F45-49 2023.
Favorite quote: I don’t run to add days to my life. I run to add life to my days. – Ronald Rook.
Fun fact(s) about you: Born in Mexico, moved to Canada at the age of 23 which means I now have lived more than 50% of my life in Canada. I am a huge Darts fan.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have ran 27 marathons. Detroit is a race I haven’t run & I’ve heard great things about it. It’s also close to Canada & running on the Ambassador Bridge sounds like it would be so fun!
Profession: Electrical Engineer
Instagram: @_asherm
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:49, 10k: 35:07, 5k: 16:47
Career highlights: Runner up at the 2023 Horizon League Cross Country Championships, The University of Detroit Mercy School Record in 5k and 10k
Favorite quote: “Keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground” – Theodore Roosevelt
Fun fact(s) about you: I quit playing soccer because I didn’t like running when I was little
Why are you racing Detroit?: Want to run a marathon in the city I love and went to college in for 5 years
Profession: Medical Student (M1)
Instagram: @g7ace_
Personal best time: 1 Mile (5:05), 3000 (9:47), 5000 (16:38), 10000 (34:14), 13.1 (1:18:33)
Career highlights: Placed 38th at the NCAA East Regional XC 2024 (6k, 20:32), set a new Horizon League meet record as conference champion (2025) in the 10,000m with a time of 34:17.
Favorite quote: “It doesn’t matter if you fall short; it is never a failure to go after your goals with everything you’ve got.” — Michael Phelps
Fun fact(s) about you: I attended Oakland University for undergraduate, graduate, and now medical school– Go Grizz!!
Why are you racing Detroit?: After graduating from Oakland University in the spring and completing my NCAA eligibility, my love and passion for the sport stayed strong. As I made the transition into medical school, I knew that I wanted to keep running a priority in my life. Detroit will be my first marathon, and the first ‘big’ race of my post-collegiate running career.
Profession: Coach and physical therapist
Instagram: @melissakesslerdpt
Personal best time: Marathon 2:51:49, 5k masters 18:08, 25k 1:39:21
Career highlights: 1st place masters female 2025 Riverbank run, 1st place masters female 2024 Richmond Marathon, 5th place masters female 2024 Crim 10 mile
Favorite quote: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” -Mary Oliver
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a mom to 3 wonderful kids, and enjoy reading, knitting, and always love a run with a friend.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I am a former DII collegiate runner and took 11 years off from competitive running for school and to start a family. During Covid, my husband Justin encouraged me to get back into running and it has opened doors for me to explore new career opportunities, travel, and explore my limits as a masters runner. I am running Detroit to try for another PR and to reminisce as I used to run on the streets of Detroit in college with some of my closest friends I have to this day. I’ve taken 28 minutes off my marathon PR in the last 2 years and this course would be incredibly special to continue to improve on that.
Profession: Electrical Engineer
Instagram: @Kayla.Hughes
Personal best time: 2:50:34 marathon, 1:23:42 HM
Career highlights: 4th at Detroit Marathon 2024
Favorite quote: Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right – Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I adopted a retired racing greyhound
Why are you racing Detroit?: I need to see that view of the sunrise at the top of the Ambassador bridge again
Profession: Physical Therapist
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:55:04; Half Marathon- 1:27:56
Career highlights: Breaking 3 hours in the marathon at the Columbus Marathon last fall! I never thought breaking 3 was in the cards for me.
Favorite quote: This too shall pass.
Fun fact(s) about you: I ran my first ultra earlier this year and surprisingly I loved it. I could definitely see myself transitioning to the ultra world in the somewhat near future!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love the energy in Detroit, as well as the course. It’s my hometown marathon!
Profession: Nurse Practitioner
Instagram: @jesszang
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:55:11
Career highlights: Forming amazing friendships with my teammates at ISU and UK and being coached by the amazing John Gartland. Was able to compete in the Burning River 100 mile relay this year with an awesome group of people and finished 3rd!
Favorite quote: “You don’t have to win, to win” – Nicole Jenkins
Fun fact(s) about you: I run so I can stay in shape for my true love of skiing! I’m also an avid baker and love making sourdough for friends and family
Why are you racing Detroit?: I had an amazing time last year meeting so many incredible people. The course is beautiful and the elite team was really well organized. Looking forward to being a part of the team again this year!
Profession: Director of Operations at Epic Races
Instagram: @angelacarron37
Personal best time: 2:55:31 – 2025 Boston Marathon, 1:24:12 – 2025 Rock CF Half Marathon. Like a fine wine, getting better with age. Who knew?!!
Career highlights: Running 150 marathons. I love this distance. I have seen my best and worst in it over the years and I truly believe there are no race day conditions I cannot overcome with the power of a positive mind:)
Favorite quote: “Nobody Cares, Work Harder.” – Jocko Willink
Fun fact(s) about you: I get to race in the Elite Field with my daughter, Reagan Justice!! She ran her first half marathon at age 12 and since then I’ve been dreaming of the day we would toe the line of 26.2 together. Never in a million years did I think I would still be fast enough, at the age of 47, to line up alongside her in the Elite Field at Detroit Marathon. It’s like a dream come true<3 Why are you racing Detroit?: I love this race and have had total FOMO every time I don’t sign up. This will be my 15th DFPM event. 13th time running the marathon. This race’s vibe is unmatched. I absolutely LOVE it!
Profession: Retired General Motors Supply Chain Executive
Personal best time: 2000 Las Vegas Marathon 2:50:44
Career highlights: Set a new Boston Marathon age group record at the 2025 Boston Marathon by almost 6 minutes in a time of 2:58:02 1st place in age group in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Boston Marathons Have run 72 total marathons and 19 Boston marathons Won the 2000 Detroit Marathon Won the 2003 Flying Pig Cincinnati Marathon Also won the Glass City Toledo, Bayshore Traverse City and Smokey Mountain Tennessee marathons USA national age group record holder in 12K (2021), 1 Mile (2025), 3000 Indoor Track (2025), 5000 Outdoor Track (2025)
Favorite quote: No regrets!
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve won the female overall Arnold Pump and Run 11 times! ( bench press & 5k combo)
Why are you racing Detroit?: Love the course!!! And it’s close to home!
Profession: Consumer Products Strategy
Instagram: @kate.gunson
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:52:18; 1/2 Marathon: 1:23:13; 10k: 38:24; 5k: 18:18
Career highlights: NA
Favorite quote: “Energy and persistence conquer all things” – Benjamin Franklin
Fun fact(s) about you: Detroit will be my 16th marathon!
Why are you racing Detroit?: After several years of doing Boston / Chicago as my two marathons each year, I’m trying to switch it up and see other cities through running!
Men’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Senior Research Analyst
Instagram: @ethanjhermann
Personal best time: 1:04:51 Half Marathon, 4:08.97 Mile
Career highlights: 2-Time Winner of the Hartford Half Marathon (2023,2024) | 8th Place at the 2021 Philadelphia Half Marathon
Favorite quote: “Water always seeks its own level” – a quote passed down from my Dad’s side of the family.
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run with an adult track club since being a freshman in college [my school didn’t have a team], I am a part-time bartender, and I love traveling to new states for races!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I wanted to have a great half marathon in October to set up success for my marathon this fall, and I am going to a wedding the week of the one I usually go to (Hartford). Zach, the elite coordinator, graciously reached out unprompted and urged me to come race at Detroit. After having several friends and running acquaintances compete and leave glowing reviews of the course and organization and crowds, the answer was quite easy. I’m super excited for my first time in Detroit!
Profession: Student
Instagram: @alex_penski
Personal best time: 14:02 5k, 8:04 3k
Career highlights: All B1G 2nd team for XC (2023)
Favorite quote: “With great power comes great responsibility”- Uncle Ben
Fun fact(s) about you: •I’m a Leo •I’m left handed •If Im not running or working or studying, I’m most likely watching a movie •I ran for MSU (Go Green!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love the idea of racing my first half marathon locally (compared to other well known (half) marathons around the world).
Profession: Engineer at Eli Lilly & co.
Instagram: @calebjkerr
Personal best time: M: 2:14:50, HM: 1:04:36, 10k: 29:04, 5k: 14:16
Career highlights: 2020 and 2024 US Olympic Marathon Trials (59th and 48th). 4xUSATF Indiana Long Distance Runner of the Year. 9th at 2022 USATF HM Championships
Favorite quote: It is hard to fail but it is worse to have never tried to succeed – Teddy Roosevelt
Fun fact(s) about you: My wife Katie is the Purdue school record holder in the mile. I got my private pilot’s license last year.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My brother in law David (Ann Arbor, MI resident) convinced me to do it!
Profession: Tax Accountant
Personal best time: 2:24:53 Full | 65:35 Half | 30:05 10K | 14:47 5K
Career highlights: Ran 31:05 10K 5 days after Boston
Favorite quote: “Remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.” —Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I reenacted Seinfeld standup for my company talent show
Why are you racing Detroit?: My coach’s marathon PR is here, and running across the border is very cool!
Profession: Emergency Physician
Instagram: @morsirayyan
Personal best time: HM 66:24, 10k 29:12, 5k 13:57, mile 4:03, 1500 3:46
Career highlights: Making the NCAA national championship twice in college in the 10k and winning the Detroit International Half Marathon three times.
Favorite quote: At the end of the day, you just have to go out there and compete.
Fun fact(s) about you: My dog Galaxy is my favorite running buddy.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s an amazing race atmosphere and nothing beats running across the bridge as the sun comes up!
Profession: Graduate Student at Oakland University
Instagram: @himichaelhancock
Personal best time: 4:02 Road Mile, 8:11 3k
Career highlights: Nike Cross Nationals and Footlocker Nationals Qualifier. Represented the USA at the 2019 World Mountain Running Championships. Went to Michigan for Track and Cross Country.
Favorite quote: Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a twin and did all my running success while chasing him
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit is the first city I ever knew. It is home for me on the grand scale coming from Dearborn. I want to be apart of its revival.
Profession: IT Systems Analyst
Instagram: @adann01
Personal best time: Half Marathon – 1:07:00; 10k – 29:57; 5k – 14:08; 3k – 8:09
Career highlights: Running across the desert from Los Angeles to Las Vegas with my friends earlier this year as well as witnessing a buddy of mine win the 2021 MVC Steeplechase
Favorite quote: “Every day above ground is a great day, remember that” – Pitbull
Fun fact(s) about you: My first and only time being in Canada was at this race last year. Excited for trip number two
Why are you racing Detroit?: To get after it and have a great time doing it
Profession: Data Analyst
Instagram: @akimpel91
Personal best time: HM: 67:13, Marathon: 2:25, 8k XC: 23:27, 5k: 14:02, 1500m: 3:46
Career highlights: Three top 20 finishes at the Bloomsday 12k Run. 7th at the 2024 Boulevard Race. 4th at XTERRA 2024 World Trail Marathon Champs.
Favorite quote: Be kind. Work hard. Be wise in time. Be present. Forgive. – Coach Jon Knight
Fun fact(s) about you: This will be my first time in Michigan! I’m a road/trail hybrid runner of sorts, and have completed a 50k and 100k trail race. I’m a stereotypical Washingtonian and own a Subaru. I’ve been taught how to play the midwest card game, Euchre. Barry Sanders is my favorite running back.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I haven’t trained specifically for a competitive half marathon yet, so I’m curious to see how I’ll do against some great competition. Also, my main training partner, Joe, grew up in Michigan, and always raves about this event, so here we are :). Give him some hometown love as he is pursuing the sub 70 barrier. Bib number is ‘Let’s Go Joe’
Profession: Mental Health Therapist
Instagram: @dmeyrer
Personal best time: 13:40, 29:07, 67 mins, 2:21
Career highlights: 16th at NCAA Cross 2019 / 2nd at Austin Marathon
Favorite quote: “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” – Carl Rogers
Fun fact(s) about you: I represented Germany for 5k in a European Championship
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because DET is home. Who doesn’t want to race at home?
Women’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: R&D Medical Device Engineer
Instagram: @stephsherm20
Personal best time: 2:34:34 Marathon; 1:14:40 Half Marathon; 33:25 Track 10k
Career highlights: 2024 US Olympic Team Marathon Trials Participant; 2021 Second Team All-American 10km
Favorite quote: Run often, run long, but never outrun your joy of running.
Fun fact(s) about you: I love to golf and enjoy outdoor activities. I’ve been running since I was in kindergarten.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m racing Detroit because I lived in Rochester Hills for 2.5 years and kept hearing about the Detroit Free Press race. This race will be a fantastic last workout prior to competing in a later Fall marathon (due to time constraints in training).
Profession: Physical Therapy Student
Personal best time: 16:08 5k, 34:00 10k
Career highlights: Placed third in the 5k at the 2024 NCAA DII Indoor Championships. Finished in second place in the 1 mile at the 2023 NCAA DIII Indoor Championships. Finished third in the 5k and fourth in the 10k at the 2023 NCAA DIII Outdoor Championships.
Favorite quote: “Not all those who wander are lost” – J.R.R. Tolkien
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a triplet!
Why are you racing Detroit?: This seems like a great race to run my first half marathon, and I am looking forward to a new challenge after recovering from an injury I had in 2024.
Profession: Stay at home mom/mental health therapist
Instagram: @Marianicolelindberg
Personal best time: 1 mile -4:49, 5K- 16:13, 10k- 33:52, 13.1- 1:15:34, marathon – 2:39:34
Career highlights: 4x all American at Boston College in cross country and track field, school record holder, Illinois state, champion, and cross country and track, Bayshore marathon champion, rock ‘n’ roll Arizona marathon champion, Grand Rapids, marathon champion, Wilmington marathon, champion.
Favorite quote: Keep showing up- des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: My marathon time keeps improving as I get older!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Last year I had so much fun running the marathon. I am back to do the half marathon.
Profession: Physician Assistant
Instagram: @marathoner_mo
Personal best time: Marathon- 2:40:06, half marathon- 1:18:08
Career highlights: Winning the Bayshore Marathon earlier this year!
Favorite quote: “Keep showing up.” -Des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: If you see me on the course, I’m probably thinking about what kind of ice cream I’ll treat myself to afterward (recommendations welcome!).
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m super excited to experience an international race, and to share the course with some of my friends while being part of such a supportive community.
Profession: Actuary
Instagram: @lucyhdobbs
Personal best time: 2:36:33 Marathon, 1:16:38 HM
Career highlights: 2024 Marathon OTQ
Favorite quote: “All growth happens at the end of your comfort zone.” – Chad E Foster
Fun fact(s) about you: Outside of running and racing, my other hobby is riding jumping horses!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m racing Detroit to experience the atmosphere! I’ve heard great things and can’t wait to run my first “international” race!
Profession: Economics Professor
Personal best time: 5K 17:08, half marathon 1:18:16, marathon 2:50:46
Career highlights: Winning the 10K and XC races at the world masters athletics championships indoor 2025. Winning Masters USATF 1 mile 2023, Setting a 5K PR at age 43.
Favorite quote: Run the first 2/3 of thr race with your head and the last 1/3 with your heart.
Fun fact(s) about you: I won a trail half marathon 6 months pregnant with our son. 🤰🏻🏃♀️
Why are you racing Detroit?: There’s nothing like seeing that sun rise as we run over the ambassador bridge!
Profession: Scientist
Instagram: @ryenmfrazier
Personal best time: 1:18:58 (half), 16:02 (5k), 34:43 (10k)
Career highlights: NC State XC 2015-2021
Favorite quote: “Happiness is an attitude”
Fun fact(s) about you: Recently moved to Detroit!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I heard it’s a huge event and love that we get to run internationally during the race.
Profession: English faculty at University of Michigan
Personal best time: 1:19:17 half, 17:13 5k
Career highlights: Getting faster as I get older
Favorite quote: “It’s going to be as hard as it needs to be, and my job is to not chicken out.” —George Saunders
Fun fact(s) about you: No one cooks worse chicken
Why are you racing Detroit?: To see how fast I can go
Profession: Professional Triathlete & Endurance Coach
Instagram: @olivia.dietzel
Personal best time: Half: 1:19:34, 10K (during an Olympic distance triathlon): 36:59, 5K: 17:35, Half during a 70.3 triathlon: 1:23:33, Marathon during an Ironman triathlon: 3:02:42
Career highlights: 15th at USATF 15K National Championships, Female Champion Greek Hero XTRI, Female Champion Fodaxman XTRI, Female Champion Serranoman Extreme Triathlon
Favorite quote: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a professional triathlete who specializes in extreme Ironman distance triathlons. I’ve completed 31 full ironman distance triathlons. I own an endurance coaching company called Tussle Endurance. I didn’t run collegiately because my high school track coach deemed me not worth investing in. I started a Mind Over Matter fundraising platform that raises money for brain cancer research in honor of my late father. I founded and am the race director for the annual Mind Over Matter Triathlon in which all proceeds go to brain cancer research at the University of Iowa.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I love racing and am always looking for fun new challenges that also provide good training days for extreme triathlons and Ironman triathlons.
