ALEXIS
I originally started running to get in shape after having my son. Then during Covid, I started running more and more miles. Once races started up, I was able to meet so many other runners. While I run for fitness and to challenge myself, the best gift running has given me is such an amazing network of friends. We share so much more than miles together, supporting each other through the ups and downs of life. TCMA races are always fun because they give us all an opportunity to celebrate each other!
Follow Alexis on Instagram: @lexrunslife
ALLISON
My first race was the Santa Runs Tacoma 10K, and race-day energy got me hooked! Over the years, running has helped me grow – learning to compete with myself instead of others, to embrace setbacks (like injuries), and making friends. I love being a part of our running community that is so encouraging and supportive, no matter your distance or pace.
Follow Allison on Instagram: @allisonrunsaround
AMANDA
I’m Amanda, a mom to a teenage daughter, outdoor enthusiast, and runner who believes running should be fun, welcoming, and full of joy. I may be a party pacer, but I bring big energy, fun costumes, and lots of encouragement. The Tacoma running community has given me incredible memories and friendships—including celebrating my 100th half marathon at Tacoma City Marathon last year. I’m excited for another year of races, costumes, and community!
Follow Amanda on Instagram: @costume_runner
ANDREA
I began running in 2015 as a way to lose weight and stay active so I could keep up with my kids. I was immediately hooked with races, starting with 5ks which lead me to my first half in 2017, the TCMA St. Paddy’s Half. As soon as I climbed that hill to the finish line, I was already mentally committing to a full! I loved the goal setting and challenges and went on to complete over 100 half marathons, multiple fulls, and even a few ultras! This year I have goals of more races, more marathons, and chasing more PRs! TCMA has been a huge part of my running with awesome local races that are fun, inclusive, and with such a great community. I love being able to encourage new runners to chase a new distance, experienced runners to chase a PR (I’m looking at you Indy 5k!) and with training groups, routes that feature local routes, and seeing so many familiar faces that show up on race day!
Follow Andrea on Instagram: @aceason
BRIGETTE
I’m Brigette, a mom of five who loves running and the people it brings together. I spend a lot of my miles trail running with my husband and logging miles with running friends. I finished my first ultra last year, which was an unforgettable experience. I love being at races, representing Team TCMA, and connecting with others through running.
Follow Brigette on Instagram: @brigette_presswood
CHRISSI
I am thrilled to be returning for my third year as a TCMA Ambassador! Over the past few years, I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know even more amazing people in our local running community as a part of the TCMA family. My absolute favorite place to run is through the Eastside of Tacoma, where I feel most connected to the energy of the city. From the excitement of packet pick-up to the joy of passing out medals at the finish line, being part of race day magic is my happy place. I love sharing the incredible organization and spirit of TCMA with everyone I meet!
Follow Chrissi on Instagram: @run.tri.kitty
DANIELLE
Hey! I’m a 4th year TCMA ambassador and boy, do I love running our races! I have ran races for over two decades and having hundreds under my belt, anywhere from 5k’s to 50k’s. But half marathons are my sweet spot! You’ll find me decked out in bright, obnoxious gear running up and down beautiful Ruston Way. See you at the races, fellow runners!
Follow Danielle on Instagram: @elliemayhem
KRISSY
I’m a runner with a marathoning problem and beyond stoked to be returning to the TCMA Ambassador Team for my third year! Whether you’re a hobby jogger, or an athlete gunning for Boston Qualfiying times, you have your pick here in Tacoma. This year, I am looking forward to completing a “perfect” season, in my 16th year of lacing up, and I can’t wait to see you out there – be sure to say hi!
Follow Krissy on Instagram: @krissymmurphy
LADD
I started running as a way to clear my head and stay healthy, and over time it became a huge part of who I am. I’ve been fortunate to run everything from a trail marathon and the trails of Point Defiance to iconic races like the Berlin and Chicago Marathons. Some of my favorite running memories include sharing several half marathons with one of my daughters and coaching elementary school running teams of over 100 kids, helping them discover the joy of movement. What I love most about the Tacoma running community, and TCMA in particular, is how welcoming, encouraging, and genuinely supportive it is for runners of all ages and abilities.
Follow Ladd on Instagram: @mileswithladd
LAURA F.
I was never a runner, but was convinced to run a 5k in 2013, then dared to run a half marathon. I said yes because I don’t back down from a challenge, but realized my love for running during all this. I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2021, the New York Marathon in 2025 and super excited to go to Europe for the first time and run the Berlin Marathon in September 2026! I’ve been running TCMA events since 2014. I love the community and variety of races they have. Fun fact, the Santa Runs Tacoma Half marathon is my PR!
Follow Laura on Instagram: @laura_munchkin
LAURA I.
My name is Laura and I’ve been running for almost 15 years. I started with the goal of running the 2012 Seattle Marathon and I was hooked. Since then, I’ve ran 30 half marathons, numerous 5k’s and 10k’s, and I look forward to running my 10th marathon with TCMA in September. I also enjoy being a part of the Tacoma running community and supporting other runners in reaching their goals. Whether if it’s a training run or on the race course, you can expect that I’m cheering for you.
Follow Laura on Instagram: @running4the_fun_of_it
LAWRENCE
I love living and running in Tacoma. I enjoy its vibrant and inclusive running culture. TCMA is at the heart and soul of this culture, so I’ve always taken every opportunity to promote it in person, and on my social media platforms. As someone who entered his eighth decade on this planet in 2025, I am particularly passionate about encouraging older runners to get up off the couch and run! I didn’t start running until I was turning 60; it’s never too late to start!
Follow Lawrence on Instagram: @hudsonsbayman
LISA
I got my start in running at the age of 32 after a family member mentioned that she was training for the Portland marathon. I was intrigued, and wanted to give it a try. At first I was only able to run a mile. Then, I built up to two miles. Then, I ran my first 5k. It was the St. Patrick’s Day Dash in Seattle. Half a mile into that race I was hooked, and I knew that I had found my passion. From 5ks to 26.2, I’ve ran all of the distances. The half marathon distance is my favorite, and as a 40th birthday gift to myself, I qualified as a Half Fanatic! I hope to see you at a TCMA race soon!
Follow Lisa on Instagram: @lisaduszy_ontherun
MEREDITH
I’ve been running for over 10 years, originally to get stronger and boost self confidence, and along the way it became my sense of security no matter what life threw at me. Through every high and low, running has been my constant. I ran my first TCMA race in 2023 and instantly fell in love with the energy and community. No matter the pace, distance, or goals, you’re supported every step of the way—and there’s always a party waiting at the finish line.
Follow Meredith on Instagram: @meredith_cope
MERILEE
I’m honored to be an ambassador for the best race experience and running community out there! Since discovering TCMA in 2023, I’ve been hooked on all of the events and inspired to run multiple marathons. TCMA has shown me that running is the best way to get to know a city and its people. As a Tacoma runner, I love that the city is full of hustlers, and I can’t wait to watch everyone achieve new goals this season! This year I’m most excited to run the newly revived TCMA Mud Mountain Dam Marathon, Tacoma City Marathon, Tokyo, and Berlin.
Follow Mariliee on Instagram: @marilee_official
RAY
I started running to help maintain a healthy weight and it has become so much more for me. I have been running for about 10 years and increased the amount of running about 4 years ago when I started developing my group of running friends! 10k runs are currently my favorite distance, but I can easily be convinced to run other distances if my friends and/or family need my support and encouragement, or if someone presents me with a new challenge! 2025 was my favorite year of running yet and I’m looking forward to an even better 2026, my first year as an TCMA ambassador! Let’s go!
Follow Ray on Instagram: @senorcoachray
SALLY
TCMA holds a special place in my heart — my first marathon was the Tacoma City Marathon, and my first half marathon was You Go Girl. I run for my mental well-being and to connect with others, and I love traveling and signing up for races to see new cities while encouraging fellow runners along the way. I hope to see you on the course!
Follow Sally on Instagram: @sally_raeann
SARAH
I have been running since 2022 when I joined a 5k training group in Tacoma. Since then I have explored 8k’s, 10k’s,12k’s and has done 8 half marathons (most with TCMA). I believe that all runners/walkers of all abilities and paces have a place at these races to challenge themselves and enjoy movement. TCMA is very inclusive and provides a safe place for all runners to participate so let’s go chase those goals!!
Follow Sarah on Instagram: @sarahsrunjourney
STEVEN
Hi, my name is Steven and I am honored to be representing TCMA again for year number two. My “why” for running is wanting to be active and a way to escape “real life” even if it is only three miles or 13 miles. My hope is to inspire others to be active as well, and find an outlet either with running or otherwise. Come run with us, I promise that you will find something to smile about. Go TCMA!
Follow Steven on Instagram: @puromusutibun_tcma
TARALYN
I started running in 2018 as an excuse to go to Walt Disney World, never imagining how much it would grow into a passion. As an avid runDisney runner, I fell in love with the challenge, the magic of race weekends, and the sense of community that comes with running. That love for running naturally led me to TCMA and the Tacoma running community, where I found the same encouragement, support, and excitement closer to home. Some of my favorite memories come from local races where the energy and camaraderie make every mile special. I’m proud to be a TCMA Ambassador and excited to help others discover how fun and welcoming this community truly is.
Follow Taralyn on Instagram: @travelgirltl
TIM
I started running while employed with a local shoe company, where I amassed numerous pairs of shoes and wanted to challenge myself to complete my first half marathon. The running bug struck me and I now treat running as a stress reliever and health booster. My favorite part of the TCMA events is the camaraderie and support from the crowd as we near the finish line of a race.
Follow Tim on Instagram: @neowizard87
YADHIRA
I started running in 2017 after losing 100lbs. I always believed that I couldn’t run, but here I am doing it! Every run is a celebration and I’m still in awe that I ran a marathon! TCMA events are the best! Love the energy and fun themes! I love the sharing my enthusiasm about running, about TCMA events and I’ve been told my energy is contagious!
Follow Yadhira on Instagram: @yadi.livingmydash