Presenting the Elite Runners of the Detroit Free Press Marathon 2026!
The Detroit Free Press Marathon, presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, is thrilled to unveil its prestigious Elite Field for 2026. 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: Running Coach and Personal Trainer
Instagram: @andyb_xc3
Personal best time: 1:03:05 half marathon, 2:14:19 Full Marathon, 4:03 Mile, 29:11 10k, 14:09 5k.
Career highlights: 2024, 2025 Free Press Marathon Champion and 2024 Pittsburgh Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: “Running is a mental sport – and we’re all insane.”
Fun fact(s) about you: When I was in High School I didn’t want to run in college, when I was in college I never wanted to do a marathon, and now I can’t imagine my life without running. It lead me to my wife, and both my son and our business exists because of it.
Why are you racing Detroit?: A chance to compete in the sport I love right in our backyard is an opportunity I would be very hard-pressed to pass on. Such a great race with so many wonderful people!
Profession: Independent Insurance Agent
Instagram: @noah_verlinde
Personal best time: 1 mile – 4:14, 3k – 8:22, 5k – 14:31, 10k – 30:10, Marathon – 2:16:38
Career highlights: Member of the 2024 SVSU Cardinals Cross Country Team that finished 17th in the nation. 75th overall finish at the 2026 Boston Marathon, Winner of the 2026 Bayshore Marathon
Favorite quote: “It’s Strictly By Faith That We Made it This Far.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I love meeting new people and traveling to new places (especially in the mountains)!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in this event last year, and the experience was absolutely incredible. I am honored to have the opportunity to share in this experience again this year!
Profession: Sr Accountant
Personal best time: 2:18
Career highlights: Runner up in 2024 Detroit Marathon, 2022 Bayshore marathon and 2021 & 2022 Flying Pig marathons. 2:18 best from 2026 Boston Marathon.
Favorite quote: “Gotta wanna learn, gotta wanna earn.”
Fun fact(s) about you: Baseline middle school record holder in the pacer test
Why are you racing Detroit?: Zach made me! Kidding (partly), but also it’s a world class and unique event in my home state.
Profession: Finance
Instagram: @truzacman
Personal best time: 2:20
Career highlights: Placing 51st at the Boston Marathon
Favorite quote: “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”
Fun fact(s) about you: Pistons fan
Why are you racing Detroit?: To run a PR
Profession: Graduate student
Personal best time: 2:22
Career highlights: All-American at D3 XC Championships in 2022.
Fun fact(s) about you: I like to run on occasion.
Why are you racing Detroit?: For fun
Profession: Patent Attorney
Instagram: @Mpellenberger
Personal best time: 2:20:41, 66:46
Career highlights: DNF at D3 Nationals 10,000,
Favorite quote: “Don’t let the highs get too high, or the lows get too low.”
Fun fact(s) about you: One of five boys
Why are you racing Detroit?: Cool weather; deep field
Profession: Physical Therapist, High School Coach
Instagram: @sykes_dylan
Personal best time: 2:25:31
Career highlights: Finishing 57th at my first Boston Marathon and winning the Grand Rapids marathon in my debut.
Favorite quote: “One must imagine Sisyphus happy.”
Fun fact(s) about you: In 2020 I ran across Michigan to raise money for Grand Rapids Catholic Central’s cross country program.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My mother is running her first ever half marathon here, and one of my brothers is doing the marathon as well.
Profession: Financial Assurance – Auditor
Instagram: @_justinthang
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:28:56 / Half: 1:08:42
Favorite quote: “Isn’t the journey beautiful?”
Fun fact(s) about you: I enjoy reading, making latte art, spending time with my family and friends, exploring new places, and obviously running.
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: Cardiac Monitor Technician
Instagram: @eiben_running
Personal best time: 02:26:26 FM
Career highlights: Having found purpose in life through running.
Favorite quote: “”I guess I just love the challenge.” -Dathan Ritzenhein
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a type 1 diabetic trying to show others what’s possible.
Why are you racing Detroit?: There’s always nostalgia for a hometown race.
Profession: Statistician
Instagram: @ohheydontmindme
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:25:14; 50k – 2:56:19; 5000m – 14:36
Career highlights: Winning the 2025 Baltimore Marathon and running for Team USA at the 2026 50k World Championship, contributing to a team 3rd place.
Favorite quote: “Don’t want to end up a cartoon in a cartoon graveyard.” – Paul Simon
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve stopped running competitively more times than I can remember, but after 28 years in the sport, here I am.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I planned to run it in 2008, then 2018, but injuries derailed me. Third time’s the charm.
Women’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Vet student
Instagram: @annabel.catt
Personal best time: 2:35.07 marathon, 1:14.18 half marathon, 32:45 10k, 15:49 5k
Career highlights: My favorite race to this day was my first marathon last march, where I qualified for the Olympic Marathon team trials! During my undergraduate career, I set the CSU 10,000m record and qualified for nationals in the event, and competed in cross country national twice. Some other exciting races include placing first in the Shamrock Half Marathon (Virginia Beach, VA) and coming in the 3rd American at the Boston Half.
Favorite quote: I don’t think I can choose one, but probably something my mom or dad said :)
Fun fact(s) about you: I am third year vet student at Tufts, come from a big military family, love baking (my sourdough starter’s name is Pesto), and have a dachshund named Linus :)
Why are you racing Detroit?: I absolutely fell in love with the marathon distance after racing the McKirdy Micro last March, and I wanted to get more experience racing as I work towards competing at the Olympic Trials! I knew I wanted my next one to be just as electric and rich in community as my last one. It also looks like a beautiful course and what better way to explore a new place than to run in it.
Profession: Law student
Instagram: @mc.heinen
Personal best time: 1:19:08 half, 33:13 10K, 15:57 5K
Career highlights: 2x NCAA Outdoor Track Regionals Qualifier, competed in US Half Marathon Championships
Favorite quote: “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” — Louisa May Alcott, Little Women
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve lived in 7 states.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s my first marathon! I wanted to run a race nearby and I thought it would be incredibly cool to run across the border during the marathon.
Profession: Medical Student
Instagram: @g7ace_
Personal best time: 26.2 2:50:51 ; 13.1 1:17:46 ; 10k 34:14 ; 5k 16:37 ; 1mi 5:04
Career highlights: After a rocky couple of years of collegiate running, I was very grateful and lucky to close the chapter of my running in the NCAA on a high note; in my final spring track season (2025), I set a personal best in the 10,000m, placing 4th at the Penn Relays. I finished that season by racing my final 10,000m at the Horizon League Championships, earning my first ever HL title and setting a new league record of 34:17, with the support of my teammates and coaches every step of the way. It is a moment I will always cherish and makes me so grateful for the people and experiences that Oakland University brought into my life!
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 am a second year medical student at Oakland University, where I also earned earned my bachelors and masters degrees while competing on the cross country and track teams (GO GRIZZ!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: My “debut” marathon was Detroit 2025; the weather was absolutely awful (if you know, you know), I was a stressed and severely sleep deprived first-semester medical student, and didn’t know how to train for a marathon….but I had the most fun I have ever had in a race that returning to this race wasn’t even a question!
Profession: Paralegal
Instagram: @sophiagaill
Personal best time: 5k: 17:12 10k: 35:34 Half-marathon: 17:40
Career highlights: Qualifying for NCAA Division II Cross Country Nationals as a team with NMU in 2025!
Favorite quote: You get to do this!
Fun fact(s) about you: Outside of running, I also love to rock climb!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have never been outside of the United States, so I figured what better way to do so than during my first Marathon! I knew I wanted to take on the marathon after college, and the Detroit Marathon was at the top of my bucket list!
Profession: Marketing and communications
Instagram: @k_lion_25
Personal best time: 2:51 (full marathon, 2025) 1:20 (half marathon, 2025)
Career highlights: Breaking 3. That was a hard barrier to pass. Winning the Steamtown Marathon last year. That was an unexpected delight.
Favorite quote: “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” ~Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a big fan of horror movies.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have heard wonderful things about this race, and I enjoy early fall marathons.
Profession: Director of Organizational Development; Business owner – Leadership Coach and Speaker
Instagram: @withkellytravis
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:49:45
Career highlights: My real highlight isn’t a race, it’s coming back to running on my own terms. After a long hiatus, I ran my first marathon at 40, following it with several more, all while raising two kids and building a career. What matters most isn’t the finish times (okay, it’s a little about the finish times), it’s that running is finally just something I get to love.
Favorite quote: “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” Victor Frankl
Fun fact(s) about you: I recently graduated with my masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. You’re never too old!
Why are you racing Detroit?: This race is close to home for me. I volunteered at it as a high schooler, and running it now, years later, feels like a fitting way to return to it. Plus, the bridge and the tunnel!
Profession: Physical Therapist Assistant
Instagram: @mariahjordannnnn
Personal best time: 2:47:26 and 1:20:59
Career highlights: 2:47:26
Favorite quote: be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m adopted.
Why are you racing Detroit?: New marathon
Profession: Financial Controller
Instagram: @mrissaw
Personal best time: Marathon 2:50:38 Half 1:21:25
Career highlights: Running in the subelite field at NYC marathon and finishing top 60 women. Finishing top 100 women in NYC, Boston, Berlin and Chicago.
Favorite quote: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
Fun fact(s) about you: My first marathon was on my 21st birthday when I was 21 weeks pregnant with my daughter.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Redemption from last year’s race! I ran my first Detroit Marathon in 2023 and I’ve been back ever since.
Profession: Nurse Practitioner
Instagram: @jesszang
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:55:11, Half Marathon 1:22
Career highlights: Meeting and training with amazing runners, staying positive through injuries, never taking the sport too seriously, and always focusing on having fun.
Favorite quote: “It’s you versus you” – Nicole Jenkins
Fun fact(s) about you: Skiing is my true love! I run hard so I can ski hard
Why are you racing Detroit?: Amazing race organization, beautiful course, great competition, and spectators that love to cheer!
Profession: Corporate Strategy
Personal best time: 5k: 17:24; 10K: 36:20; HM: 1:23:07; M: 2:55:23
Career highlights: National Champion in the W40 5000m and 10K at the 2025 USATF Masters Outdoor Track and Field Championships. PRs in the half marathon and marathon at age 42 and 43, respectively.
Favorite quote: “The race is just icing on the cake”. Meaning all the hard work has already been done and getting to the starting line is an accomplishment and a privilege, so just have fun!
Fun fact(s) about you: Mom to three kids, ranging in age from 6 to 17. 2025 Presidential Leadership Scholar. Former ballet dancer. Three-time graduate from Georgia Tech.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’ve had Detroit on my list of must-do races due to its unique course and reputation for being a well-run event with great crowd support. Two of my close running friends ran Detroit in 2024 and raved about it, which sealed the deal for me.
Men’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Pro runner & accountant
Instagram: @jflavinp
Personal best time: 2:09:18, 1:02:30, 46:19 – 10 mile
Career highlights: 1st @ Marathon Project 2025, 16th @ Boston Marathon 2025, 17th @ Boston Marathon 2023
Favorite quote: “If you want to win a race you have to go a little beserk”
Fun fact(s) about you: I am the all time fastest marathoner from NJ
Why are you racing Detroit?: To prepare for the NYC marathon
Profession: Mental Health Therapist
Instagram: @dmeyrer
Personal best time: 63:16
Career highlights: 16th at NCAA XC, 27th at NYC 2025 Marathon
Favorite quote: “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I was born in Germany!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because Detroit rocks and if I don’t race it, Zach will be very mad at me.
Profession: Student – master of architecture
Instagram: @Joe._.meyers
Personal best time: 8:07, 14:03, 30:18 road
Career highlights: Running for the University of Michigan at the B1G cross country meet at home, competing in the B1G track meet in Eugene at Oregon
Favorite quote: Anything Galen Rupp says
Fun fact(s) about you: I have been vegetarian my whole life!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because I love to compete and run!
Profession: Running Store Guy
Instagram: @rasrunnin
Personal best time: 4:04, 8:09, 14:03, 29:33, 65:19
Career highlights: Drake Relays Road 10k Champ, Lincoln Half Champ, Portland Half Champ, Eugene Half Champ
Favorite quote: Trials of Miles, Miles of Trials
Fun fact(s) about you: Going back to school for a English Lit degree.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Chase a fast time against quality competition in my build toward my first marathon in December.
Profession: Medical Student (fmr Registered Nurse)
Instagram: @joezack
Personal best time: Mile – 4:04, 5k – 14:19, 8k (road) – 24:20, half – 68:30
Career highlights: Competing for UW-Oshkosh – All-American in the DMR (2015), multiple time qualifier for NCAAs in the mile/1500 & as a team in XC; post-college – running 4:04.0 (2021), 33rd place at USATF Club Cross Country Champs (2021), winning Hood to Coast (2022)
Favorite quote: “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” -Robert Collier
Fun fact(s) about you: After graduating from college in 2018, I went back to school for nursing in 2020, and have been both a neurocritical care nurse & clinical research nurse. Now I’m pursuing my MD at the University of Michigan.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m excited to have a great and competitive local race to train for while I’m back in school. I’m also looking forward to challenging myself at this race distance again, as it has been a few years since formally training for a half marathon due to injuries and other setbacks.
Profession: UX Researcher at NIKE
Instagram: @andrewcusmano
Personal best time: 23:31 8k, 2:19 marathon, 1:05:30 Half, 14:09 5k
Career highlights: Top 20 at Manchester Road Race, 5th at Vancouver Marathon, All-Region XC for Michigan State University, ran in NCAA XC Championships twice.
Favorite quote: “Take courage, my heart: you have been through worse than this.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have an insane Pokemon card collection.
Why are you racing Detroit?: To come home and represent the Bowerman Track Club in my hometown where it all started.
Profession: Law student
Instagram: @ahealey8
Personal best time: 5k: 14:26, 10k: 30:00, Marathon: 2:19.41
Career highlights: 2024 ACC 10k-18th, 2025 Boston Marathon- 103rd, 2026 Boston Marathon- 69th
Favorite quote: Don’t get cheated kid, just swing from your heels- Mt. Joy
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run a half marathon in 27 states
Why are you racing Detroit?: For the chance to race great competition
Profession: Sales
Instagram: @coreybellemore
Personal best time: 1:07
Career highlights: Winning Detroit Half Marathon in 2025
Favorite quote: Respect all, fear none.
Fun fact(s) about you: I am the Beer Mile World Record Holder
Why are you racing Detroit?: Backyard race. A race I grew up watching.
Profession: Accountant
Instagram: @james_gedris
Personal best time: Mile – 4:13, 5k – 14:11, Half Marathon – 1:07:47
Career highlights: Winning the 2024 Rock CF Half Marathon
Favorite quote: “When you come to a fork in the road, take it!” -Yogi Berra
Fun fact(s) about you: I can identify over 1000 species of fish
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s an excellent course and close to home. The addition of the elite field has made it one of the more competitive races in the United States and something that I wouldn’t want to miss.
Women’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Software Engineer
Instagram: @megorunner
Personal best time: 1:14:26
Career highlights: 20th place at 2026 Boston Marathon
Favorite quote: Be curious, not judgmental
Fun fact(s) about you: I received a Dan Campbell jersey as an apology present. It was the only way I’d accept the apology.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Final hard effort before New York Marathon. Also, I’m really excited to return to the race and get to compete so close to home
Profession: Professional Hyrox Athlete for Adidas
Instagram: @alyssamcelheny
Personal best time: 2:34:27
Career highlights: Winning the 2026 Hyrox Elite 15 World Championship title, qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials
Fun fact(s) about you: I can ride a unicycle.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s my favorite half marathon! After focusing on Hyrox for a good 8 months, I’m excited to see how it’s helped my running.
Profession: Running coach
Instagram: @sydneytdevore
Personal best time: 2:32:08/1:12:10
Career highlights: Winning the Detroit Free Press marathon with my husband in 2024 of course! Also qualifying for 2 olympic trials and winning the Pittsburgh Marathon. 3rd American at NYC Marathon and 16th at the Boston Marathon.
Favorite quote: “Some days it just flows and I feel like I’m born to do this, other days it feels like I’m trudging through hell. Every day I make the choice to show up and see what I’ve got, and to try and be better. My advice: keep showing up.”-Des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: I taught English in South Korea. I was an elementary school teacher. I have a 1 year old and 2 German Shorthaired Pointers.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I can’t imagine not participating! It’s like our home course.
Profession: Nonprofit Development
Instagram: @paigegski
Personal best time: 1:12:50
Career highlights: An All-American in XC in 2021, 1:12:50 at Austin Half Marathon in 2026
Favorite quote: “Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” – Dolly Parton
Fun fact(s) about you: My favorite artists are Ariana Grande, Katseye and Michael Jackson. I could eat white rice with every meal for the rest of my life.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My husband ran this race in 2022 and really enjoyed it! Now it’s my turn!
Profession: Emergency RN
Instagram: @joannarunner
Personal best time: 1:14:26 Half marathon 2:37:03 Marathon
Career highlights: 2020 Olympic Trials Qualifier
Favorite quote: Not sure I have one
Fun fact(s) about you: I have 3 Labrador’s that like to run with me.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I lived in Grand Rapids for 3 years and always wanted to run it.
Profession: Software product management
Instagram: @olivia.g.pratt
Personal best time: 5k (track): 15:26. 10k (track): 31:48. Half marathon: 1:10:57. Marathon: 2:34:22.
Career highlights: 3-time US Olympic Trials qualifier. Represented Team USA 3 times on the track (NACAC U23s) and in cross country (Great Edinburgh and Great Stirling XCountry).
Favorite quote: “If you want to change the world, start by building a bike lane.” – Janette Sadik-Khan
Fun fact(s) about you: My first job was as a 6-month-old child model for The Onion, back when they were headquartered in Madison. That’s my major claim to fame.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’ve chosen to make my home in Metro Detroit for the past nine years and I think it’s high time I run the Freep!
Profession: Therapist, mom
Instagram: @MariaCiceroLindberg
Personal best time: Marathon-2:34:59, half- 1:14:37
Career highlights: 2028 Olympics trials marathon qualifier, Four time all American at Boston College in cross-country and track and field, inducted into Boston College Hall of Fame, 23 lifetime marathons, including winds at Bayshore marathon, Grand Rapids marathon, rock ‘n’ roll Arizona marathon
Favorite quote: The process is the goal
Fun fact(s) about you: Mom of three, been running for the past 30 years
Why are you racing Detroit?: Such a fun, exciting race. I really enjoyed it the last two years.
Profession: Clinical Psychology PhD student
Instagram: @julia.ples
Personal best time: Half-marathon 1:15:26
Fun fact(s) about you: I ran for the Division I track and field and cross country teams at Boise State and Eastern Michigan :)
Why are you racing Detroit?: I lived in Michigan for a few years and recently moved away, but this race is a great reason to come back!
Profession: Professional Triathlete & Endurance Coach
Instagram: @olivia.dietzel
Personal best time: Half Marathon: 1:16:57, Ironman: 9:29, 70.3: 4:23
Career highlights: 4x Extreme Triathlon Champion, 3rd at 2025 Snowshoe World Championship, 16th at 2024 USATF 15K Nationals
Favorite quote: Be strong and courageous 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, but am starting to dabble in elite road and trail running races!
Why are you racing Detroit?: It looks like a really cool and unique race that’s in the Midwest and within driving distance!
Profession: Graduate Student Assistant XC/Track Coach
Instagram: @rreaganjustice
Personal best time: 2:45:09 mara 1:19:14 half
Career highlights: 2nd at Detroit Marathon 2025, Top 80 Females at Boston Marathon, All American NCAA D2!
Favorite quote: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift” PRE
Fun fact(s) about you: I used to be a dancer, getting coffee is a hobby of mine, and I think PB&J is one of the best creations.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit feels like home! After competing 4 years at Wayne state, the city will always hold a special place of my heart! I’m so happy to now be coaching in Detroit and have the opportunity to here.
Presenting the Elite Runners of the Detroit Free Press Marathon 2026!
The Detroit Free Press Marathon, presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, is thrilled to unveil its prestigious Elite Field for 2026. 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: Running Coach and Personal Trainer
Instagram: @andyb_xc3
Personal best time: 1:03:05 half marathon, 2:14:19 Full Marathon, 4:03 Mile, 29:11 10k, 14:09 5k.
Career highlights: 2024, 2025 Free Press Marathon Champion and 2024 Pittsburgh Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: “Running is a mental sport – and we’re all insane.”
Fun fact(s) about you: When I was in High School I didn’t want to run in college, when I was in college I never wanted to do a marathon, and now I can’t imagine my life without running. It lead me to my wife, and both my son and our business exists because of it.
Why are you racing Detroit?: A chance to compete in the sport I love right in our backyard is an opportunity I would be very hard-pressed to pass on. Such a great race with so many wonderful people!
Profession: Independent Insurance Agent
Instagram: @noah_verlinde
Personal best time: 1 mile – 4:14, 3k – 8:22, 5k – 14:31, 10k – 30:10, Marathon – 2:16:38
Career highlights: Member of the 2024 SVSU Cardinals Cross Country Team that finished 17th in the nation. 75th overall finish at the 2026 Boston Marathon, Winner of the 2026 Bayshore Marathon
Favorite quote: “It’s Strictly By Faith That We Made it This Far.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I love meeting new people and traveling to new places (especially in the mountains)!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in this event last year, and the experience was absolutely incredible. I am honored to have the opportunity to share in this experience again this year!
Profession: Sr Accountant
Personal best time: 2:18
Career highlights: Runner up in 2024 Detroit Marathon, 2022 Bayshore marathon and 2021 & 2022 Flying Pig marathons. 2:18 best from 2026 Boston Marathon.
Favorite quote: “Gotta wanna learn, gotta wanna earn.”
Fun fact(s) about you: Baseline middle school record holder in the pacer test
Why are you racing Detroit?: Zach made me! Kidding (partly), but also it’s a world class and unique event in my home state.
Profession: Finance
Instagram: @truzacman
Personal best time: 2:20
Career highlights: Placing 51st at the Boston Marathon
Favorite quote: “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”
Fun fact(s) about you: Pistons fan
Why are you racing Detroit?: To run a PR
Profession: Graduate student
Personal best time: 2:22
Career highlights: All-American at D3 XC Championships in 2022.
Fun fact(s) about you: I like to run on occasion.
Why are you racing Detroit?: For fun
Profession: Patent Attorney
Instagram: @Mpellenberger
Personal best time: 2:20:41, 66:46
Career highlights: DNF at D3 Nationals 10,000,
Favorite quote: “Don’t let the highs get too high, or the lows get too low.”
Fun fact(s) about you: One of five boys
Why are you racing Detroit?: Cool weather; deep field
Profession: Physical Therapist, High School Coach
Instagram: @sykes_dylan
Personal best time: 2:25:31
Career highlights: Finishing 57th at my first Boston Marathon and winning the Grand Rapids marathon in my debut.
Favorite quote: “One must imagine Sisyphus happy.”
Fun fact(s) about you: In 2020 I ran across Michigan to raise money for Grand Rapids Catholic Central’s cross country program.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My mother is running her first ever half marathon here, and one of my brothers is doing the marathon as well.
Profession: Financial Assurance – Auditor
Instagram: @_justinthang
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:28:56 / Half: 1:08:42
Favorite quote: “Isn’t the journey beautiful?”
Fun fact(s) about you: I enjoy reading, making latte art, spending time with my family and friends, exploring new places, and obviously running.
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: Cardiac Monitor Technician
Instagram: @eiben_running
Personal best time: 02:26:26 FM
Career highlights: Having found purpose in life through running.
Favorite quote: “”I guess I just love the challenge.” -Dathan Ritzenhein
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a type 1 diabetic trying to show others what’s possible.
Why are you racing Detroit?: There’s always nostalgia for a hometown race.
Profession: Statistician
Instagram: @ohheydontmindme
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:25:14; 50k – 2:56:19; 5000m – 14:36
Career highlights: Winning the 2025 Baltimore Marathon and running for Team USA at the 2026 50k World Championship, contributing to a team 3rd place.
Favorite quote: “Don’t want to end up a cartoon in a cartoon graveyard.” – Paul Simon
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve stopped running competitively more times than I can remember, but after 28 years in the sport, here I am.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I planned to run it in 2008, then 2018, but injuries derailed me. Third time’s the charm.
Women’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Vet student
Instagram: @annabel.catt
Personal best time: 2:35.07 marathon, 1:14.18 half marathon, 32:45 10k, 15:49 5k
Career highlights: My favorite race to this day was my first marathon last march, where I qualified for the Olympic Marathon team trials! During my undergraduate career, I set the CSU 10,000m record and qualified for nationals in the event, and competed in cross country national twice. Some other exciting races include placing first in the Shamrock Half Marathon (Virginia Beach, VA) and coming in the 3rd American at the Boston Half.
Favorite quote: I don’t think I can choose one, but probably something my mom or dad said :)
Fun fact(s) about you: I am third year vet student at Tufts, come from a big military family, love baking (my sourdough starter’s name is Pesto), and have a dachshund named Linus :)
Why are you racing Detroit?: I absolutely fell in love with the marathon distance after racing the McKirdy Micro last March, and I wanted to get more experience racing as I work towards competing at the Olympic Trials! I knew I wanted my next one to be just as electric and rich in community as my last one. It also looks like a beautiful course and what better way to explore a new place than to run in it.
Profession: Law student
Instagram: @mc.heinen
Personal best time: 1:19:08 half, 33:13 10K, 15:57 5K
Career highlights: 2x NCAA Outdoor Track Regionals Qualifier, competed in US Half Marathon Championships
Favorite quote: “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” — Louisa May Alcott, Little Women
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve lived in 7 states.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s my first marathon! I wanted to run a race nearby and I thought it would be incredibly cool to run across the border during the marathon.
Profession: Medical Student
Instagram: @g7ace_
Personal best time: 26.2 2:50:51 ; 13.1 1:17:46 ; 10k 34:14 ; 5k 16:37 ; 1mi 5:04
Career highlights: After a rocky couple of years of collegiate running, I was very grateful and lucky to close the chapter of my running in the NCAA on a high note; in my final spring track season (2025), I set a personal best in the 10,000m, placing 4th at the Penn Relays. I finished that season by racing my final 10,000m at the Horizon League Championships, earning my first ever HL title and setting a new league record of 34:17, with the support of my teammates and coaches every step of the way. It is a moment I will always cherish and makes me so grateful for the people and experiences that Oakland University brought into my life!
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 am a second year medical student at Oakland University, where I also earned earned my bachelors and masters degrees while competing on the cross country and track teams (GO GRIZZ!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: My “debut” marathon was Detroit 2025; the weather was absolutely awful (if you know, you know), I was a stressed and severely sleep deprived first-semester medical student, and didn’t know how to train for a marathon….but I had the most fun I have ever had in a race that returning to this race wasn’t even a question!
Profession: Paralegal
Instagram: @sophiagaill
Personal best time: 5k: 17:12 10k: 35:34 Half-marathon: 17:40
Career highlights: Qualifying for NCAA Division II Cross Country Nationals as a team with NMU in 2025!
Favorite quote: You get to do this!
Fun fact(s) about you: Outside of running, I also love to rock climb!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have never been outside of the United States, so I figured what better way to do so than during my first Marathon! I knew I wanted to take on the marathon after college, and the Detroit Marathon was at the top of my bucket list!
Profession: Marketing and communications
Instagram: @k_lion_25
Personal best time: 2:51 (full marathon, 2025) 1:20 (half marathon, 2025)
Career highlights: Breaking 3. That was a hard barrier to pass. Winning the Steamtown Marathon last year. That was an unexpected delight.
Favorite quote: “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” ~Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a big fan of horror movies.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have heard wonderful things about this race, and I enjoy early fall marathons.
Profession: Director of Organizational Development; Business owner – Leadership Coach and Speaker
Instagram: @withkellytravis
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:49:45
Career highlights: My real highlight isn’t a race, it’s coming back to running on my own terms. After a long hiatus, I ran my first marathon at 40, following it with several more, all while raising two kids and building a career. What matters most isn’t the finish times (okay, it’s a little about the finish times), it’s that running is finally just something I get to love.
Favorite quote: “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” Victor Frankl
Fun fact(s) about you: I recently graduated with my masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. You’re never too old!
Why are you racing Detroit?: This race is close to home for me. I volunteered at it as a high schooler, and running it now, years later, feels like a fitting way to return to it. Plus, the bridge and the tunnel!
Profession: Physical Therapist Assistant
Instagram: @mariahjordannnnn
Personal best time: 2:47:26 and 1:20:59
Career highlights: 2:47:26
Favorite quote: be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m adopted.
Why are you racing Detroit?: New marathon
Profession: Financial Controller
Instagram: @mrissaw
Personal best time: Marathon 2:50:38 Half 1:21:25
Career highlights: Running in the subelite field at NYC marathon and finishing top 60 women. Finishing top 100 women in NYC, Boston, Berlin and Chicago.
Favorite quote: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
Fun fact(s) about you: My first marathon was on my 21st birthday when I was 21 weeks pregnant with my daughter.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Redemption from last year’s race! I ran my first Detroit Marathon in 2023 and I’ve been back ever since.
Profession: Nurse Practitioner
Instagram: @jesszang
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:55:11, Half Marathon 1:22
Career highlights: Meeting and training with amazing runners, staying positive through injuries, never taking the sport too seriously, and always focusing on having fun.
Favorite quote: “It’s you versus you” – Nicole Jenkins
Fun fact(s) about you: Skiing is my true love! I run hard so I can ski hard
Why are you racing Detroit?: Amazing race organization, beautiful course, great competition, and spectators that love to cheer!
Profession: Corporate Strategy
Personal best time: 5k: 17:24; 10K: 36:20; HM: 1:23:07; M: 2:55:23
Career highlights: National Champion in the W40 5000m and 10K at the 2025 USATF Masters Outdoor Track and Field Championships. PRs in the half marathon and marathon at age 42 and 43, respectively.
Favorite quote: “The race is just icing on the cake”. Meaning all the hard work has already been done and getting to the starting line is an accomplishment and a privilege, so just have fun!
Fun fact(s) about you: Mom to three kids, ranging in age from 6 to 17. 2025 Presidential Leadership Scholar. Former ballet dancer. Three-time graduate from Georgia Tech.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’ve had Detroit on my list of must-do races due to its unique course and reputation for being a well-run event with great crowd support. Two of my close running friends ran Detroit in 2024 and raved about it, which sealed the deal for me.
Men’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Pro runner & accountant
Instagram: @jflavinp
Personal best time: 2:09:18, 1:02:30, 46:19 – 10 mile
Career highlights: 1st @ Marathon Project 2025, 16th @ Boston Marathon 2025, 17th @ Boston Marathon 2023
Favorite quote: “If you want to win a race you have to go a little beserk”
Fun fact(s) about you: I am the all time fastest marathoner from NJ
Why are you racing Detroit?: To prepare for the NYC marathon
Profession: Mental Health Therapist
Instagram: @dmeyrer
Personal best time: 63:16
Career highlights: 16th at NCAA XC, 27th at NYC 2025 Marathon
Favorite quote: “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I was born in Germany!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because Detroit rocks and if I don’t race it, Zach will be very mad at me.
Profession: Student – master of architecture
Instagram: @Joe._.meyers
Personal best time: 8:07, 14:03, 30:18 road
Career highlights: Running for the University of Michigan at the B1G cross country meet at home, competing in the B1G track meet in Eugene at Oregon
Favorite quote: Anything Galen Rupp says
Fun fact(s) about you: I have been vegetarian my whole life!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because I love to compete and run!
Profession: Running Store Guy
Instagram: @rasrunnin
Personal best time: 4:04, 8:09, 14:03, 29:33, 65:19
Career highlights: Drake Relays Road 10k Champ, Lincoln Half Champ, Portland Half Champ, Eugene Half Champ
Favorite quote: Trials of Miles, Miles of Trials
Fun fact(s) about you: Going back to school for a English Lit degree.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Chase a fast time against quality competition in my build toward my first marathon in December.
Profession: Medical Student (fmr Registered Nurse)
Instagram: @joezack
Personal best time: Mile – 4:04, 5k – 14:19, 8k (road) – 24:20, half – 68:30
Career highlights: Competing for UW-Oshkosh – All-American in the DMR (2015), multiple time qualifier for NCAAs in the mile/1500 & as a team in XC; post-college – running 4:04.0 (2021), 33rd place at USATF Club Cross Country Champs (2021), winning Hood to Coast (2022)
Favorite quote: “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” -Robert Collier
Fun fact(s) about you: After graduating from college in 2018, I went back to school for nursing in 2020, and have been both a neurocritical care nurse & clinical research nurse. Now I’m pursuing my MD at the University of Michigan.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m excited to have a great and competitive local race to train for while I’m back in school. I’m also looking forward to challenging myself at this race distance again, as it has been a few years since formally training for a half marathon due to injuries and other setbacks.
Profession: UX Researcher at NIKE
Instagram: @andrewcusmano
Personal best time: 23:31 8k, 2:19 marathon, 1:05:30 Half, 14:09 5k
Career highlights: Top 20 at Manchester Road Race, 5th at Vancouver Marathon, All-Region XC for Michigan State University, ran in NCAA XC Championships twice.
Favorite quote: “Take courage, my heart: you have been through worse than this.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have an insane Pokemon card collection.
Why are you racing Detroit?: To come home and represent the Bowerman Track Club in my hometown where it all started.
Profession: Law student
Instagram: @ahealey8
Personal best time: 5k: 14:26, 10k: 30:00, Marathon: 2:19.41
Career highlights: 2024 ACC 10k-18th, 2025 Boston Marathon- 103rd, 2026 Boston Marathon- 69th
Favorite quote: Don’t get cheated kid, just swing from your heels- Mt. Joy
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run a half marathon in 27 states
Why are you racing Detroit?: For the chance to race great competition
Profession: Sales
Instagram: @coreybellemore
Personal best time: 1:07
Career highlights: Winning Detroit Half Marathon in 2025
Favorite quote: Respect all, fear none.
Fun fact(s) about you: I am the Beer Mile World Record Holder
Why are you racing Detroit?: Backyard race. A race I grew up watching.
Profession: Accountant
Instagram: @james_gedris
Personal best time: Mile – 4:13, 5k – 14:11, Half Marathon – 1:07:47
Career highlights: Winning the 2024 Rock CF Half Marathon
Favorite quote: “When you come to a fork in the road, take it!” -Yogi Berra
Fun fact(s) about you: I can identify over 1000 species of fish
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s an excellent course and close to home. The addition of the elite field has made it one of the more competitive races in the United States and something that I wouldn’t want to miss.
Women’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Software Engineer
Instagram: @megorunner
Personal best time: 1:14:26
Career highlights: 20th place at 2026 Boston Marathon
Favorite quote: Be curious, not judgmental
Fun fact(s) about you: I received a Dan Campbell jersey as an apology present. It was the only way I’d accept the apology.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Final hard effort before New York Marathon. Also, I’m really excited to return to the race and get to compete so close to home
Profession: Professional Hyrox Athlete for Adidas
Instagram: @alyssamcelheny
Personal best time: 2:34:27
Career highlights: Winning the 2026 Hyrox Elite 15 World Championship title, qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials
Fun fact(s) about you: I can ride a unicycle.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s my favorite half marathon! After focusing on Hyrox for a good 8 months, I’m excited to see how it’s helped my running.
Profession: Running coach
Instagram: @sydneytdevore
Personal best time: 2:32:08/1:12:10
Career highlights: Winning the Detroit Free Press marathon with my husband in 2024 of course! Also qualifying for 2 olympic trials and winning the Pittsburgh Marathon. 3rd American at NYC Marathon and 16th at the Boston Marathon.
Favorite quote: “Some days it just flows and I feel like I’m born to do this, other days it feels like I’m trudging through hell. Every day I make the choice to show up and see what I’ve got, and to try and be better. My advice: keep showing up.”-Des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: I taught English in South Korea. I was an elementary school teacher. I have a 1 year old and 2 German Shorthaired Pointers.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I can’t imagine not participating! It’s like our home course.
Profession: Nonprofit Development
Instagram: @paigegski
Personal best time: 1:12:50
Career highlights: An All-American in XC in 2021, 1:12:50 at Austin Half Marathon in 2026
Favorite quote: “Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” – Dolly Parton
Fun fact(s) about you: My favorite artists are Ariana Grande, Katseye and Michael Jackson. I could eat white rice with every meal for the rest of my life.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My husband ran this race in 2022 and really enjoyed it! Now it’s my turn!
Profession: Emergency RN
Instagram: @joannarunner
Personal best time: 1:14:26 Half marathon 2:37:03 Marathon
Career highlights: 2020 Olympic Trials Qualifier
Favorite quote: Not sure I have one
Fun fact(s) about you: I have 3 Labrador’s that like to run with me.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I lived in Grand Rapids for 3 years and always wanted to run it.
Profession: Software product management
Instagram: @olivia.g.pratt
Personal best time: 5k (track): 15:26. 10k (track): 31:48. Half marathon: 1:10:57. Marathon: 2:34:22.
Career highlights: 3-time US Olympic Trials qualifier. Represented Team USA 3 times on the track (NACAC U23s) and in cross country (Great Edinburgh and Great Stirling XCountry).
Favorite quote: “If you want to change the world, start by building a bike lane.” – Janette Sadik-Khan
Fun fact(s) about you: My first job was as a 6-month-old child model for The Onion, back when they were headquartered in Madison. That’s my major claim to fame.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’ve chosen to make my home in Metro Detroit for the past nine years and I think it’s high time I run the Freep!
Profession: Therapist, mom
Instagram: @MariaCiceroLindberg
Personal best time: Marathon-2:34:59, half- 1:14:37
Career highlights: 2028 Olympics trials marathon qualifier, Four time all American at Boston College in cross-country and track and field, inducted into Boston College Hall of Fame, 23 lifetime marathons, including winds at Bayshore marathon, Grand Rapids marathon, rock ‘n’ roll Arizona marathon
Favorite quote: The process is the goal
Fun fact(s) about you: Mom of three, been running for the past 30 years
Why are you racing Detroit?: Such a fun, exciting race. I really enjoyed it the last two years.
Profession: Clinical Psychology PhD student
Instagram: @julia.ples
Personal best time: Half-marathon 1:15:26
Fun fact(s) about you: I ran for the Division I track and field and cross country teams at Boise State and Eastern Michigan :)
Why are you racing Detroit?: I lived in Michigan for a few years and recently moved away, but this race is a great reason to come back!
Profession: Professional Triathlete & Endurance Coach
Instagram: @olivia.dietzel
Personal best time: Half Marathon: 1:16:57, Ironman: 9:29, 70.3: 4:23
Career highlights: 4x Extreme Triathlon Champion, 3rd at 2025 Snowshoe World Championship, 16th at 2024 USATF 15K Nationals
Favorite quote: Be strong and courageous 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, but am starting to dabble in elite road and trail running races!
Why are you racing Detroit?: It looks like a really cool and unique race that’s in the Midwest and within driving distance!
Profession: Graduate Student Assistant XC/Track Coach
Instagram: @rreaganjustice
Personal best time: 2:45:09 mara 1:19:14 half
Career highlights: 2nd at Detroit Marathon 2025, Top 80 Females at Boston Marathon, All American NCAA D2!
Favorite quote: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift” PRE
Fun fact(s) about you: I used to be a dancer, getting coffee is a hobby of mine, and I think PB&J is one of the best creations.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit feels like home! After competing 4 years at Wayne state, the city will always hold a special place of my heart! I’m so happy to now be coaching in Detroit and have the opportunity to here.
Presenting the Elite Runners of the Detroit Free Press Marathon 2026!
The Detroit Free Press Marathon, presented by MSU Federal Credit Union, is thrilled to unveil its prestigious Elite Field for 2026. 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: Running Coach and Personal Trainer
Instagram: @andyb_xc3
Personal best time: 1:03:05 half marathon, 2:14:19 Full Marathon, 4:03 Mile, 29:11 10k, 14:09 5k.
Career highlights: 2024, 2025 Free Press Marathon Champion and 2024 Pittsburgh Marathon Champion
Favorite quote: “Running is a mental sport – and we’re all insane.”
Fun fact(s) about you: When I was in High School I didn’t want to run in college, when I was in college I never wanted to do a marathon, and now I can’t imagine my life without running. It lead me to my wife, and both my son and our business exists because of it.
Why are you racing Detroit?: A chance to compete in the sport I love right in our backyard is an opportunity I would be very hard-pressed to pass on. Such a great race with so many wonderful people!
Profession: Independent Insurance Agent
Instagram: @noah_verlinde
Personal best time: 1 mile – 4:14, 3k – 8:22, 5k – 14:31, 10k – 30:10, Marathon – 2:16:38
Career highlights: Member of the 2024 SVSU Cardinals Cross Country Team that finished 17th in the nation. 75th overall finish at the 2026 Boston Marathon, Winner of the 2026 Bayshore Marathon
Favorite quote: “It’s Strictly By Faith That We Made it This Far.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I love meeting new people and traveling to new places (especially in the mountains)!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I was fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in this event last year, and the experience was absolutely incredible. I am honored to have the opportunity to share in this experience again this year!
Profession: Sr Accountant
Personal best time: 2:18
Career highlights: Runner up in 2024 Detroit Marathon, 2022 Bayshore marathon and 2021 & 2022 Flying Pig marathons. 2:18 best from 2026 Boston Marathon.
Favorite quote: “Gotta wanna learn, gotta wanna earn.”
Fun fact(s) about you: Baseline middle school record holder in the pacer test
Why are you racing Detroit?: Zach made me! Kidding (partly), but also it’s a world class and unique event in my home state.
Profession: Finance
Instagram: @truzacman
Personal best time: 2:20
Career highlights: Placing 51st at the Boston Marathon
Favorite quote: “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”
Fun fact(s) about you: Pistons fan
Why are you racing Detroit?: To run a PR
Profession: Graduate student
Personal best time: 2:22
Career highlights: All-American at D3 XC Championships in 2022.
Fun fact(s) about you: I like to run on occasion.
Why are you racing Detroit?: For fun
Profession: Patent Attorney
Instagram: @Mpellenberger
Personal best time: 2:20:41, 66:46
Career highlights: DNF at D3 Nationals 10,000,
Favorite quote: “Don’t let the highs get too high, or the lows get too low.”
Fun fact(s) about you: One of five boys
Why are you racing Detroit?: Cool weather; deep field
Profession: Physical Therapist, High School Coach
Instagram: @sykes_dylan
Personal best time: 2:25:31
Career highlights: Finishing 57th at my first Boston Marathon and winning the Grand Rapids marathon in my debut.
Favorite quote: “One must imagine Sisyphus happy.”
Fun fact(s) about you: In 2020 I ran across Michigan to raise money for Grand Rapids Catholic Central’s cross country program.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My mother is running her first ever half marathon here, and one of my brothers is doing the marathon as well.
Profession: Financial Assurance – Auditor
Instagram: @_justinthang
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:28:56 / Half: 1:08:42
Favorite quote: “Isn’t the journey beautiful?”
Fun fact(s) about you: I enjoy reading, making latte art, spending time with my family and friends, exploring new places, and obviously running.
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: Cardiac Monitor Technician
Instagram: @eiben_running
Personal best time: 02:26:26 FM
Career highlights: Having found purpose in life through running.
Favorite quote: “”I guess I just love the challenge.” -Dathan Ritzenhein
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m a type 1 diabetic trying to show others what’s possible.
Why are you racing Detroit?: There’s always nostalgia for a hometown race.
Profession: Statistician
Instagram: @ohheydontmindme
Personal best time: Marathon – 2:25:14; 50k – 2:56:19; 5000m – 14:36
Career highlights: Winning the 2025 Baltimore Marathon and running for Team USA at the 2026 50k World Championship, contributing to a team 3rd place.
Favorite quote: “Don’t want to end up a cartoon in a cartoon graveyard.” – Paul Simon
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve stopped running competitively more times than I can remember, but after 28 years in the sport, here I am.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I planned to run it in 2008, then 2018, but injuries derailed me. Third time’s the charm.
Women’s Elite Athletes – Full Marathon
Profession: Vet student
Instagram: @annabel.catt
Personal best time: 2:35.07 marathon, 1:14.18 half marathon, 32:45 10k, 15:49 5k
Career highlights: My favorite race to this day was my first marathon last march, where I qualified for the Olympic Marathon team trials! During my undergraduate career, I set the CSU 10,000m record and qualified for nationals in the event, and competed in cross country national twice. Some other exciting races include placing first in the Shamrock Half Marathon (Virginia Beach, VA) and coming in the 3rd American at the Boston Half.
Favorite quote: I don’t think I can choose one, but probably something my mom or dad said :)
Fun fact(s) about you: I am third year vet student at Tufts, come from a big military family, love baking (my sourdough starter’s name is Pesto), and have a dachshund named Linus :)
Why are you racing Detroit?: I absolutely fell in love with the marathon distance after racing the McKirdy Micro last March, and I wanted to get more experience racing as I work towards competing at the Olympic Trials! I knew I wanted my next one to be just as electric and rich in community as my last one. It also looks like a beautiful course and what better way to explore a new place than to run in it.
Profession: Law student
Instagram: @mc.heinen
Personal best time: 1:19:08 half, 33:13 10K, 15:57 5K
Career highlights: 2x NCAA Outdoor Track Regionals Qualifier, competed in US Half Marathon Championships
Favorite quote: “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” — Louisa May Alcott, Little Women
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve lived in 7 states.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s my first marathon! I wanted to run a race nearby and I thought it would be incredibly cool to run across the border during the marathon.
Profession: Medical Student
Instagram: @g7ace_
Personal best time: 26.2 2:50:51 ; 13.1 1:17:46 ; 10k 34:14 ; 5k 16:37 ; 1mi 5:04
Career highlights: After a rocky couple of years of collegiate running, I was very grateful and lucky to close the chapter of my running in the NCAA on a high note; in my final spring track season (2025), I set a personal best in the 10,000m, placing 4th at the Penn Relays. I finished that season by racing my final 10,000m at the Horizon League Championships, earning my first ever HL title and setting a new league record of 34:17, with the support of my teammates and coaches every step of the way. It is a moment I will always cherish and makes me so grateful for the people and experiences that Oakland University brought into my life!
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 am a second year medical student at Oakland University, where I also earned earned my bachelors and masters degrees while competing on the cross country and track teams (GO GRIZZ!)
Why are you racing Detroit?: My “debut” marathon was Detroit 2025; the weather was absolutely awful (if you know, you know), I was a stressed and severely sleep deprived first-semester medical student, and didn’t know how to train for a marathon….but I had the most fun I have ever had in a race that returning to this race wasn’t even a question!
Profession: Paralegal
Instagram: @sophiagaill
Personal best time: 5k: 17:12 10k: 35:34 Half-marathon: 17:40
Career highlights: Qualifying for NCAA Division II Cross Country Nationals as a team with NMU in 2025!
Favorite quote: You get to do this!
Fun fact(s) about you: Outside of running, I also love to rock climb!
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have never been outside of the United States, so I figured what better way to do so than during my first Marathon! I knew I wanted to take on the marathon after college, and the Detroit Marathon was at the top of my bucket list!
Profession: Marketing and communications
Instagram: @k_lion_25
Personal best time: 2:51 (full marathon, 2025) 1:20 (half marathon, 2025)
Career highlights: Breaking 3. That was a hard barrier to pass. Winning the Steamtown Marathon last year. That was an unexpected delight.
Favorite quote: “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” ~Henry Ford
Fun fact(s) about you: I am a big fan of horror movies.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I have heard wonderful things about this race, and I enjoy early fall marathons.
Profession: Director of Organizational Development; Business owner – Leadership Coach and Speaker
Instagram: @withkellytravis
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:49:45
Career highlights: My real highlight isn’t a race, it’s coming back to running on my own terms. After a long hiatus, I ran my first marathon at 40, following it with several more, all while raising two kids and building a career. What matters most isn’t the finish times (okay, it’s a little about the finish times), it’s that running is finally just something I get to love.
Favorite quote: “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” Victor Frankl
Fun fact(s) about you: I recently graduated with my masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. You’re never too old!
Why are you racing Detroit?: This race is close to home for me. I volunteered at it as a high schooler, and running it now, years later, feels like a fitting way to return to it. Plus, the bridge and the tunnel!
Profession: Physical Therapist Assistant
Instagram: @mariahjordannnnn
Personal best time: 2:47:26 and 1:20:59
Career highlights: 2:47:26
Favorite quote: be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire
Fun fact(s) about you: I’m adopted.
Why are you racing Detroit?: New marathon
Profession: Financial Controller
Instagram: @mrissaw
Personal best time: Marathon 2:50:38 Half 1:21:25
Career highlights: Running in the subelite field at NYC marathon and finishing top 60 women. Finishing top 100 women in NYC, Boston, Berlin and Chicago.
Favorite quote: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
Fun fact(s) about you: My first marathon was on my 21st birthday when I was 21 weeks pregnant with my daughter.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Redemption from last year’s race! I ran my first Detroit Marathon in 2023 and I’ve been back ever since.
Profession: Nurse Practitioner
Instagram: @jesszang
Personal best time: Marathon: 2:55:11, Half Marathon 1:22
Career highlights: Meeting and training with amazing runners, staying positive through injuries, never taking the sport too seriously, and always focusing on having fun.
Favorite quote: “It’s you versus you” – Nicole Jenkins
Fun fact(s) about you: Skiing is my true love! I run hard so I can ski hard
Why are you racing Detroit?: Amazing race organization, beautiful course, great competition, and spectators that love to cheer!
Profession: Corporate Strategy
Personal best time: 5k: 17:24; 10K: 36:20; HM: 1:23:07; M: 2:55:23
Career highlights: National Champion in the W40 5000m and 10K at the 2025 USATF Masters Outdoor Track and Field Championships. PRs in the half marathon and marathon at age 42 and 43, respectively.
Favorite quote: “The race is just icing on the cake”. Meaning all the hard work has already been done and getting to the starting line is an accomplishment and a privilege, so just have fun!
Fun fact(s) about you: Mom to three kids, ranging in age from 6 to 17. 2025 Presidential Leadership Scholar. Former ballet dancer. Three-time graduate from Georgia Tech.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’ve had Detroit on my list of must-do races due to its unique course and reputation for being a well-run event with great crowd support. Two of my close running friends ran Detroit in 2024 and raved about it, which sealed the deal for me.
Men’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Pro runner & accountant
Instagram: @jflavinp
Personal best time: 2:09:18, 1:02:30, 46:19 – 10 mile
Career highlights: 1st @ Marathon Project 2025, 16th @ Boston Marathon 2025, 17th @ Boston Marathon 2023
Favorite quote: “If you want to win a race you have to go a little beserk”
Fun fact(s) about you: I am the all time fastest marathoner from NJ
Why are you racing Detroit?: To prepare for the NYC marathon
Profession: Mental Health Therapist
Instagram: @dmeyrer
Personal best time: 63:16
Career highlights: 16th at NCAA XC, 27th at NYC 2025 Marathon
Favorite quote: “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I was born in Germany!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because Detroit rocks and if I don’t race it, Zach will be very mad at me.
Profession: Student – master of architecture
Instagram: @Joe._.meyers
Personal best time: 8:07, 14:03, 30:18 road
Career highlights: Running for the University of Michigan at the B1G cross country meet at home, competing in the B1G track meet in Eugene at Oregon
Favorite quote: Anything Galen Rupp says
Fun fact(s) about you: I have been vegetarian my whole life!
Why are you racing Detroit?: Because I love to compete and run!
Profession: Running Store Guy
Instagram: @rasrunnin
Personal best time: 4:04, 8:09, 14:03, 29:33, 65:19
Career highlights: Drake Relays Road 10k Champ, Lincoln Half Champ, Portland Half Champ, Eugene Half Champ
Favorite quote: Trials of Miles, Miles of Trials
Fun fact(s) about you: Going back to school for a English Lit degree.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Chase a fast time against quality competition in my build toward my first marathon in December.
Profession: Medical Student (fmr Registered Nurse)
Instagram: @joezack
Personal best time: Mile – 4:04, 5k – 14:19, 8k (road) – 24:20, half – 68:30
Career highlights: Competing for UW-Oshkosh – All-American in the DMR (2015), multiple time qualifier for NCAAs in the mile/1500 & as a team in XC; post-college – running 4:04.0 (2021), 33rd place at USATF Club Cross Country Champs (2021), winning Hood to Coast (2022)
Favorite quote: “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” -Robert Collier
Fun fact(s) about you: After graduating from college in 2018, I went back to school for nursing in 2020, and have been both a neurocritical care nurse & clinical research nurse. Now I’m pursuing my MD at the University of Michigan.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’m excited to have a great and competitive local race to train for while I’m back in school. I’m also looking forward to challenging myself at this race distance again, as it has been a few years since formally training for a half marathon due to injuries and other setbacks.
Profession: UX Researcher at NIKE
Instagram: @andrewcusmano
Personal best time: 23:31 8k, 2:19 marathon, 1:05:30 Half, 14:09 5k
Career highlights: Top 20 at Manchester Road Race, 5th at Vancouver Marathon, All-Region XC for Michigan State University, ran in NCAA XC Championships twice.
Favorite quote: “Take courage, my heart: you have been through worse than this.”
Fun fact(s) about you: I have an insane Pokemon card collection.
Why are you racing Detroit?: To come home and represent the Bowerman Track Club in my hometown where it all started.
Profession: Law student
Instagram: @ahealey8
Personal best time: 5k: 14:26, 10k: 30:00, Marathon: 2:19.41
Career highlights: 2024 ACC 10k-18th, 2025 Boston Marathon- 103rd, 2026 Boston Marathon- 69th
Favorite quote: Don’t get cheated kid, just swing from your heels- Mt. Joy
Fun fact(s) about you: I’ve run a half marathon in 27 states
Why are you racing Detroit?: For the chance to race great competition
Profession: Sales
Instagram: @coreybellemore
Personal best time: 1:07
Career highlights: Winning Detroit Half Marathon in 2025
Favorite quote: Respect all, fear none.
Fun fact(s) about you: I am the Beer Mile World Record Holder
Why are you racing Detroit?: Backyard race. A race I grew up watching.
Profession: Accountant
Instagram: @james_gedris
Personal best time: Mile – 4:13, 5k – 14:11, Half Marathon – 1:07:47
Career highlights: Winning the 2024 Rock CF Half Marathon
Favorite quote: “When you come to a fork in the road, take it!” -Yogi Berra
Fun fact(s) about you: I can identify over 1000 species of fish
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s an excellent course and close to home. The addition of the elite field has made it one of the more competitive races in the United States and something that I wouldn’t want to miss.
Women’s Elite Athletes – Int’l Half Marathon
Profession: Software Engineer
Instagram: @megorunner
Personal best time: 1:14:26
Career highlights: 20th place at 2026 Boston Marathon
Favorite quote: Be curious, not judgmental
Fun fact(s) about you: I received a Dan Campbell jersey as an apology present. It was the only way I’d accept the apology.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Final hard effort before New York Marathon. Also, I’m really excited to return to the race and get to compete so close to home
Profession: Professional Hyrox Athlete for Adidas
Instagram: @alyssamcelheny
Personal best time: 2:34:27
Career highlights: Winning the 2026 Hyrox Elite 15 World Championship title, qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials
Fun fact(s) about you: I can ride a unicycle.
Why are you racing Detroit?: It’s my favorite half marathon! After focusing on Hyrox for a good 8 months, I’m excited to see how it’s helped my running.
Profession: Running coach
Instagram: @sydneytdevore
Personal best time: 2:32:08/1:12:10
Career highlights: Winning the Detroit Free Press marathon with my husband in 2024 of course! Also qualifying for 2 olympic trials and winning the Pittsburgh Marathon. 3rd American at NYC Marathon and 16th at the Boston Marathon.
Favorite quote: “Some days it just flows and I feel like I’m born to do this, other days it feels like I’m trudging through hell. Every day I make the choice to show up and see what I’ve got, and to try and be better. My advice: keep showing up.”-Des Linden
Fun fact(s) about you: I taught English in South Korea. I was an elementary school teacher. I have a 1 year old and 2 German Shorthaired Pointers.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I can’t imagine not participating! It’s like our home course.
Profession: Nonprofit Development
Instagram: @paigegski
Personal best time: 1:12:50
Career highlights: An All-American in XC in 2021, 1:12:50 at Austin Half Marathon in 2026
Favorite quote: “Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” – Dolly Parton
Fun fact(s) about you: My favorite artists are Ariana Grande, Katseye and Michael Jackson. I could eat white rice with every meal for the rest of my life.
Why are you racing Detroit?: My husband ran this race in 2022 and really enjoyed it! Now it’s my turn!
Profession: Emergency RN
Instagram: @joannarunner
Personal best time: 1:14:26 Half marathon 2:37:03 Marathon
Career highlights: 2020 Olympic Trials Qualifier
Favorite quote: Not sure I have one
Fun fact(s) about you: I have 3 Labrador’s that like to run with me.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I lived in Grand Rapids for 3 years and always wanted to run it.
Profession: Software product management
Instagram: @olivia.g.pratt
Personal best time: 5k (track): 15:26. 10k (track): 31:48. Half marathon: 1:10:57. Marathon: 2:34:22.
Career highlights: 3-time US Olympic Trials qualifier. Represented Team USA 3 times on the track (NACAC U23s) and in cross country (Great Edinburgh and Great Stirling XCountry).
Favorite quote: “If you want to change the world, start by building a bike lane.” – Janette Sadik-Khan
Fun fact(s) about you: My first job was as a 6-month-old child model for The Onion, back when they were headquartered in Madison. That’s my major claim to fame.
Why are you racing Detroit?: I’ve chosen to make my home in Metro Detroit for the past nine years and I think it’s high time I run the Freep!
Profession: Therapist, mom
Instagram: @MariaCiceroLindberg
Personal best time: Marathon-2:34:59, half- 1:14:37
Career highlights: 2028 Olympics trials marathon qualifier, Four time all American at Boston College in cross-country and track and field, inducted into Boston College Hall of Fame, 23 lifetime marathons, including winds at Bayshore marathon, Grand Rapids marathon, rock ‘n’ roll Arizona marathon
Favorite quote: The process is the goal
Fun fact(s) about you: Mom of three, been running for the past 30 years
Why are you racing Detroit?: Such a fun, exciting race. I really enjoyed it the last two years.
Profession: Clinical Psychology PhD student
Instagram: @julia.ples
Personal best time: Half-marathon 1:15:26
Fun fact(s) about you: I ran for the Division I track and field and cross country teams at Boise State and Eastern Michigan :)
Why are you racing Detroit?: I lived in Michigan for a few years and recently moved away, but this race is a great reason to come back!
Profession: Professional Triathlete & Endurance Coach
Instagram: @olivia.dietzel
Personal best time: Half Marathon: 1:16:57, Ironman: 9:29, 70.3: 4:23
Career highlights: 4x Extreme Triathlon Champion, 3rd at 2025 Snowshoe World Championship, 16th at 2024 USATF 15K Nationals
Favorite quote: Be strong and courageous 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, but am starting to dabble in elite road and trail running races!
Why are you racing Detroit?: It looks like a really cool and unique race that’s in the Midwest and within driving distance!
Profession: Graduate Student Assistant XC/Track Coach
Instagram: @rreaganjustice
Personal best time: 2:45:09 mara 1:19:14 half
Career highlights: 2nd at Detroit Marathon 2025, Top 80 Females at Boston Marathon, All American NCAA D2!
Favorite quote: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift” PRE
Fun fact(s) about you: I used to be a dancer, getting coffee is a hobby of mine, and I think PB&J is one of the best creations.
Why are you racing Detroit?: Detroit feels like home! After competing 4 years at Wayne state, the city will always hold a special place of my heart! I’m so happy to now be coaching in Detroit and have the opportunity to here.
