Negative Split

🌟Featured Runner Friday! 🌟

Karen’s love for running started back in high school with cross country and track—and it’s only grown stronger ever since. From her first marathon after college to conquering distances all the way up to 100 miles, running has become her way to explore, dream, and see the world differently.

This past October, she returned to the marathon at the Spokane Marathon—just months after welcoming her daughter, Kestrel, in April. As a mom of two (with a busy three-year-old, too!), balancing training isn’t easy, but running helps her stay grounded, strong, and present.

After getting the green light postpartum, running became her way to reconnect with herself—those quiet miles turning into moments of reflection and strength.

Karen loves the Spokane Marathon for its stunning fall colors, river canyon views, and the perfect mix of community and solitude. Even through cold, wet weather, the energy from volunteers and cheering teams kept her going every step of the way 🍂✨

She looks forward to returning and hopes to inspire her kids to run one day too. Karen is proud to be a mother runner and a lifelong runner at heart. Thank you Karen for sharing your story!

🌟Featured Runner Friday🌟

Meet Liberty! Her first race was the Coeur d’Alene Half Marathon, and the gorgeous course instantly captured her heart. Running holds deep meaning for Liberty. Her Grandma, one of her biggest supporters, prayed every day that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. Even while living with multiple sclerosis, her Grandma stayed active, walking outside daily with her Grandpa. She showed Liberty the importance of appreciating every step we can take and never taking movement for granted. Though her Grandma passed away in March from cancer, Liberty continues to run in her honor, celebrating the gift of a moving body for those who can’t.

The Spokane Marathon was a milestone for Liberty, her first marathon ever. It was a tough course, but crossing the finish line in just under 7 hours, accompanied by a song her mom requested and cheered on by incredible volunteers, was an experience she’ll never forget. While she didn’t snap a photo at the finish, her first race finish photo from 2025 captures the excitement and pride of her journey.

For Liberty, running isn’t just a sport. It’s a tribute, a celebration of life, and a reminder to cherish every step. She’s already looking forward to more miles in 2026. Thank you Liberty for sharing your story! 💚