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 H.
I run to clear my mind, manage stress, process grief, and push my limits while staying strong and healthy. My journey began in 2007 after watching my oldest daughter run track and cross country. One of my most rewarding experiences has been my 50-state marathon journey, now at state 45. I also love being a part of and supporting the Tacoma running community. It’s unique blend of big and small makes it feel welcoming, inspiring, and full of energy.
Follow Amanda H. on Instagram: @amandaruns26
AMANDA S.
I’m a proud mom to a teenage daughter, an avid hiker and outdoor enthusiast, and, of course, a runner! I like to joke that I’m a natural-born non-runner — I’m not the fastest, but I always have a blast. I love dressing up in fun, quirky outfits or costumes for races. I have so many great memories running and have met some of the most wonderful, supportive, uplifting people through the Tacoma running community. I’ll be celebrating my 100th half marathon at the Tacoma City Marathon this May!
Follow Amanda S. on Instagram: @costume_runner
BRIGETTE
Hi, I’m Brigette! I am thrilled to be returning as a TCMA Ambassador for my third year. I first started running because of my husband who encouraged me to start and keep going. Now running has become something we enjoy together with our 5 kids. Tacoma has such an incredible running community that has inspired me every step of the way, I am so grateful for all the friends I have made along the journey. My favorite running memory will always be crossing the finish line of my first marathon, a moment that made all the hard work and training worth it.
Follow Brigette on Instagram: @running_momof5
CHRISSI
I’m a Tacoma-based runner who enjoys training on the roads of our beautiful city. Sometimes I’m a slow runner, sometimes I’m a little faster, and sometimes I’m cheering from the course as a volunteer! I love how many opportunities there are for local races with TCMA and I’m honored to be back as an ambassador for a second year!
Follow Chrissi on Instagram: @run.tri.kitty
DANIELLE
I have been running races for the last 18 years. Anything from 5k up to 50k. My sweet spot is the half marathon. I love TCMA races because they are all in my backyard. I also love our running community here and seeing fellow ambassadors/friends at all the races!
Follow Danielle on Instagram: @elliemayhem
ERIN
I love running for the mental clarity, social time, and health benefits as a masters runner. I was a runner as a younger person with the influence of running parents and encouraging coaches, had a 20 year break, and have been back at it for about 8 years now. Growing up on Vashon, I have many memories of running in the Tacoma area during high school, and now I’ve had some seriously fun times at races in the past few years in Tacoma. I appreciate the swag, the scenic courses that have also given me some PR times, and I LOVE the TCMA staff and ambassadors, and feel honored to be one this year, too!
Follow Erin on Instagram: @wackyrunner
IRENE
My running journey started well into my 50s — you could say I’m a late bloomer. Since then, I’ve completed over 80 half marathons, along with 9 full marathons, including three of the six World Marathon Majors. Running has taken me to 30 states and internationally to the Berlin Marathon— and soon, Sydney Marathon in August. I’m not a speedy runner, but I embrace the joy, resilience, and sense of community that running brings. As a TCMA Ambassador, I’m excited to inspire and connect with fellow runners.
Follow Irene on Instagram: @ireneinmotion
JADE
I am a mama to a 6-year-old girl and have loved our stroller running journey including winning races together. I have ran more 5ks and half marathons than I can keep track of! I love being part this running community to keep me motivated and inspired! I’m excited to run some new races and new distances this year!
Follow Jade on Instagram: @jadegarr
JOEY
Running has become my obsession and journey of becoming a better distance runner and a better human — one step at a time. Whether you’re chasing goals or just here for the post-run snacks, I’m excited to be running alongside you!
Follow Joey on Instagram: @joeyzazasalas
JUSTIN
I’m a sucker for a run with a view and am looking forward to more exploring and fun on the run this year. The incredible people I see on race day are the ones that keep me coming back to the start line, and the great vibes on the course never fail to carry me to the finish. When not on the run, catch me either outside in my garden or underwater on a dive. Most excited about the Tacoma City Half this year, but you’ll see me at more races than not… maybe on my first trail run in 2025? Who knows!
Follow Justin on Instagram: @run.dive.jwr
KRISTINA
This year, I am looking forward to celebrating 15 years on the run, in what I believe to be the best place to run in the world: the Pacific Northwest, and more particularly, the 253! The running community of greater Tacoma is so welcoming – whether you’re a hobby jogger or a competitive racer, or in my case, both, depending on the day! There’s an equal chance frolicking in a silly costume, or gunning it hard to BQ (my first BQ and marathon PR was set at the beloved Mud Mountain Dam Marathon in 2021)! If you see me, never hesitate to say hi!
Follow Kristina on Instagram: @krissymmurphy
LAURA
Hi, my name is Laura and I have been a runner for thirteen years. My love for running started with wanting to run the Seattle Marathon and I’ve been hooked ever since. I enjoy being a part of the Tacoma running community and advocating that running is for everyone regardless of distance or pace.
Follow Laura on Instagram: @running4the_fun_of_it
LAWRENCE
Hello, I’m Lawrence, and I’m thrilled to be back for a second year as a TCMA ambassador. I started running the year of my 60th birthday, and ten years later I’m still at it! My goal is to encourage and empower older runners to not be intimidated, and get out and show the youngsters that we still have it, even if we have slowed down a bit!
Follow Lawrence on Instagram: @hudsonsbayman
LISA
In 2002, I was not a runner, but I had a family member who was training for a marathon and it inspired me to try running, too. We started out by running 1 mile, three times a week. After a couple of weeks, we progressed to 2 miles, then 3 miles, and after 6 months, I ran my first 5k! I remember crossing that start line and feeling something I had never felt before. The adrenaline rush was amazing! From then on, I was hooked! 23 years, 109 half marathons, 5 marathons and countless other races, and 16 out of 50 states later, I am so excited to be able to keep running and be an ambassador for TCMA! Let’s go!
Follow Lisa on Instagram: @lisaduszy_ontherun
MARILEE
I have been a casual runner for most of my life, but TCMA got me hooked on racing ever since the 2023 St. Paddy’s Day Run Tacoma race. I want others to experience the same fun and get hooked like I did! Since my first TCMA event I’ve run nearly every TCMA race, along with dozens of local races in every distance. In 2025, I am running the Tokyo Marathon and aim to complete every Abbott World Major. I am thrilled to be a part of this positive community and help others enjoy a premium racing experience.
Follow Marilee on Instagram: @marileeturscak
PATRICK
I’m a late 40s runner who discovered running almost 10 years ago after deciding to improve overall health and fitness (following being a light smoker for a good chunk of my 30s). I’m an archaeologist who lives in University Place, runs everyday (barring injury) and am a regular fixture at TCMA events as I participate in as many events as possible during the year. I believe running should be as fun as it is grueling and does try to have as much fun as possible by not taking it too seriously while also cheering on other runners.
Follow Patrick on Instagram: @run.forester.run
TIM
I started running during my employment with Brooks, 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 am enthusiastic and proud! I LOVE the sense of accomplishment after every run because with every run, I am doing something I thought was impossible for most of my life! I started running after losing 100lbs. I was inspired to try after seeing so many runners in all shapes, sizes, and abilities. I am not fast, nor a pro – I had to Google what fartleks & PR meant! My favorite running memory so far is completing my first marathon. I hope to encourage and inspire anyone who may feel like I did to give running a try!
Follow Yadhira on Instagram: @yadi.livingmydash