Madison Marathon Profile: Jen Johnson

"I run because it's so symbolic of life. You have to drive yourself to overcome the obstacles. You might feel that you can't. But then you find your inner strength, and realize you're capable of so much more than you thought." - Arthur Blank

Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges in our path. For 42-year-old Jen Johnson (aka JJ), a breast cancer diagnosis last April was a major hurdle. But after enduring intense treatment that included seven surgeries and 16 rounds of chemo, Jen has beaten cancer and is ready to run this year's Madison Half Marathon. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official photographer for the 2015 Madison Marathon events, is honored to share Jen's inspirational story of how she's reclaiming her body - and enjoying life - after beating breast cancer. 

Jen Johnson sports her Madison Half Marathon T-shirt with friends Kris and Stef at the Torchlight 5k in Minneapolis. The photo was taken by Jen’s husband Eric Johnson in July 2014, two months after Jen’s bilateral mastectomy.

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?
Jen Johnson: 2015 will be my 5th [Madison Half Marathon]. I had to miss 2014 because I had a bilateral mastectomy the week prior to the run.

Selfie portrait taken by Jen before she cut off her hair in preparation for chemotherapy.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run? 
JJ: 2 marathons, and 22 half marathons.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? 
JJ: I also like to run the Ragnar Relay (Great River); 2015 will be my 3rd. I have also done 6 sprint triathlons and 1 Olympic distance. I was registered for 3 sprint tris and 1 Olympic in 2014, but the breast cancer diagnosis obviously took care of that.

FFP: What are some of your favorite events?
JJ: My favorite events and ones I keep coming back for are the Madison Half Marathon and the Lake Tahoe Half Marathon (2015 will be my 5th run in Lake Tahoe).

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?
JJ: Participating in events like Madison help me stay motivated throughout the year...especially during a cold winter! They give me a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It's what got me through 16 rounds of chemo, reconstructive surgery, a total hysterectomy, etc. I adore the city of Madison...the vibe of the run is special to me. My best running buddy Stefanie and I like to go to brat fest afterward and stop at one of the establishments on State Street for a delicious Spotted Cow. Stef and I have run many half marathons together in a half dozen or so states....she helps keep me motivated. 

Children in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Photo taken by Jen during a volunteer medical service trip by Seattle Alliance Outreach, a medical nonprofit. Jen serves on the board of directors of the organization. She brought indestructible soccer balls for the youth to play with after seeing children using broken bottles and rolled-up dirty diapers for soccer games. 

FFP: Can you tell us what it has been like to train for race season after battling cancer?
JJ: I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ in April, 2014. The past year has been a roller coaster of surgeries (7!) and chemotherapy. Training for this race has been tough. It is my first "big" run after this ordeal and it has been stressful and hard to build my endurance up. My doctor says it is the best thing for me, though, and that resuming intense physical activity results in a 36% lower chance of recurrence of cancer. Mentally, I just want to "get back to who I was" before my diagnosis. Chemo and steroids really do a number on you...so I'm hoping that if I'm able to complete this run I will feel better about myself and like less of a patient.

Truthfully, I'm slower than a turtle but as long as I'm able to be out there, I will do my best.  I also miss being part of the running community. I always felt good being grouped with runners.

FFP: Will you be doing anything to make your races this year more meaningful?
JJ: I am hoping to raise money for my relay for life team (Anoka County Relay for Life Pirates of the CURE-i-bbean), which benefits the American Cancer Society. 

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
JJ: I'm on the board of directors of a volunteer medical group out of Seattle (Seattle Alliance Outreach). We take several trips to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia each year. We are working on building a kidney dialysis center and have assisted with renovations to the ORs and the recovery room of the Black Lion Hospital. When I went there in early 2014 (the month before my cancer diagnosis) I brought over indestructible soccer balls for the kids around the hospital with funds raised by my 13 year old son. I was compelled to do something after I visited Addis and saw the children playing soccer with broken bottles and rolled up dirty diapers.

FFP: Is there anything else you'd like to share?
JJ: I'd like to encourage all women to get their mammograms!
[Editor's note: For more information about breast cancer detection, visit the American Cancer Society's website.]

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2015. The Spring Half-Marathon race will occur on May 24 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Madison Marathon Profile: Cara Conway

Cara Conway (24) set a clear goal: "I will run a half marathon before I get married!"  Armed with lots of determination and encouraged by a few members of her wedding party who will be running by her side, Cara will cross the finish line of her very first half marathon in Madison, WI on May 24th.  Focal Flame Photography, the official race photographer for the upcoming Madison Half Marathon, talked to Cara about training for this race and what it means to be #sweatingforthewedding. 

Cara and her brother and training partner - who is also her groomsman - show their spirit in front of the state capitol building. Photo courtesy of Christine Conway. 

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run? 
Cara: Zero! This is my first!

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run? 
Cara: Zero! This is also my first! 

FFP: Do you participate in other types of athletic events? 
Cara: I have volunteered nearly every year for the Madison Ironman in September. Usually I share a role in either the swim or run portions of the race (or both!). Fun Runs have always been my go-to, so the Madison Half will be stepping out of the box a little bit! Favorites include the Crazy Legs in Madison, The Color Run in Milwaukee, Glow in the Deke in La Crosse, and most recently the Tram Road Challenge in Palm Springs, CA. The Tram Road Challenge is a run for the United Way of the Desert that climbs over 2,000 vertical feet in just over 3.7 miles - it definitely holds true to its name!

FFP: Why is running important to you?
Cara: For me, running is an escape from all of the chaos of the day. It allows you to breathe and reflect on decisions or events that have happened. After every run, I am able to confront each new situation with a fresh mind. 

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why did you pick the Madison Half Marathon for your first? 
Cara: I am choosing to participate in the Madison Marathon because it is home. It is what I have watched so many others participate in, and I am familiar with the beautiful course - now it is my turn! I have always wanted to do a half marathon and have finally gotten the courage.
 

Cara and her brother sport smiles before a run. Photo courtesy of Christine Conway. 

FFP: Is there anything that will make this race more meaningful? 
Cara: The Madison Marathon will be a special event for me because it is not only my first half marathon, but I am also running it with my Maid of Honor, and my brother (Groomsman) who I do all of my runs with. I am getting married in October, and this was a goal I made for myself upon getting engaged: I will run a half marathon before I get married! All of my training updates on social media have included the hashtag #sweatingforthewedding. You will definitely see t-shirts on the big day.

FFP: What's the best part of doing the race with friends and family?
Cara: Running the marathon with friends keeps you accountable. It ensures that you are training properly and are ready when the day comes. We're looking to have fun while accomplishing personal goals!

FFP: What would you tell other racers about training for a half marathon?
Cara: Run while you can! Some people dream of being able to participate in something like this. Take full advantage and have fun!

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share?
Cara: My journey has just begun. Marathons and triathlons are in my future.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2015. Focal Flame Photography is honored to serve as official photographers for the Madison Marathon. All runners will receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos courtesy of the event organizers. The Spring Madison Marathon events will occur on May 23 and 24 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Madison Marathon Profile: Greg B.

Greg B. during the Spring 2014 Madison Half-Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

For Greg B. (50), the Madison Half Marathon has marked important new chapters in his life. After training for his first Madison Half Marathon as a way to deal with the strain of a marriage that was coming to an end, his journey came full circle last year when he proposed to his girlfriend after running the race. (Spoiler alert: She said yes.)

Focal Flame Photography, official race photographers for the 2015 Madison Marathon events, talked to Greg about his love of running and about surprising his love Heidi.

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run? 
Greg: I have run the Madison Half Marathon every year since 2009.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run? 
Greg: I have run the Madison Half Marathon 6 times this year will be number 7. [The Madison Marathon] is the only half marathon I have run.

Greg proposed to his fiancé after the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. Photo provided by Greg's daughter Rebecca B.

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you consistently participate in the Madison Marathon? 
Greg: A couple of reasons: First of all the location, it’s only 35-40 minutes from my house. Secondly, with the race in May, it forces me to get out and run/train during the winter months. I am a CPA and am super busy from January to April 15th, so forcing me to run/stay active helps me focus and be more productive at work as well.
 

FFP: Do you have any goals when running this race?  
Greg: I just try to stay under 2 hours every year I run it. I have done that every year except for the year it was so hot and muggy that the race got closed down.

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Greg: I have run with numerous friends/family over the years. This year I talked a friend of mine from Elkhorn to join me. Sharing this by running with friends/family makes it much more fun. It gives you more people to share the experience with after its over and throughout the year.

Also, the reason I decided to run the half marathon the very first year was that I was going through a divorce and the running/training helped me deal with the stress I was feeling. Last year after the half marathon was over, I surprised my girlfriend and proposed to her. I had both of my college-age daughters there and one of my daughter’s boyfriends. They were in on the surprise. After the run was over, we went and stood out of the way under a shady tree, and I turned around took off my sweaty shirt and put on one that said “Heidi, will you marry me.” I turned back around, and when she saw my shirt she dropped her water bottle and couldn’t believe it. Everyone standing around our area started clapping for us. It was a great experience/memory. Running in this race has come full circle for me -from running to deal with the stress of divorce to having great memories of my fiancé saying yes when I asked her to marry me.   

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share?  
Greg: I am not a serious runner, but participating in this race annually keeps me in decent shape.  I believe in training in moderation, so as long as I continue to keep my time under 2 hours each year despite getting older, I will be happy.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?  
Greg: One of the biggest reasons I run this race is the awesome atmosphere on race day. It just feels like a very healthy, clean environment where everyone is cheering for you and it feels like one big family. All of the people cheering and encouraging you along the race route is great as well. I would highly encourage anyone who is thinking about running in this race to just do it. It gives me a great sense of accomplishment when it’s over - especially if I hit my time goal.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2015. Focal Flame Photography is honored to serve as official photographers for the Madison Marathon. All participants will receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos, brought to you by the event organizers. The Spring Madison Marathon events will occur on May 23 and 24 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Madison Marathon Profile: Katey Collins

As the spring Madison Marathon events approach on May 23-24, 2015, we will be profiling one Madison Marathoner each week. As we get to know each athlete, we learn that the motivation to train for and complete such a challenging event comes in many forms.

First-time Madison Marathon athlete Katey Collins (39) is inspired by a first-grader named Beau. We asked Katey about why she runs and about the special boy that keeps her motivated.

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run? 
Katey: This is my first in Madison.

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why did you choose to participate in the Madison Marathon this year? 
Katey:I love the community, and my friends are participating.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? 
Katey:Yes, triathlons, mud runs, open water races, aquathons, long relays such as Ragnar and Door County.

FFP: What have been some of your favorite events? 
Katey: Daytona Beach Aquathon, Door County Tri, Big Shoulders Chicago, and Race Day Events Aquathon Series.

FFP: Do you do anything to make the races more meaningful or fun?
Katey: Yes, I go with friends and wear something in honor of Beau.

FFP: How did you connect with Beau?
Katey: I meet him through the group IRun4. [Editor’s note: The group I Run 4 Michael is a nonprofit organization that pairs athletes with a child or adult with special needs, thereby providing a source of encouragement and support for both the athlete and their buddy.]

FFP: What does running and participating in these types of events mean to you?
Katey: It keeps me healthy, mentally AND physically. Training with my friends is as much fun as the event itself. I also get to run in honor of Beau.

Katey Collins (photo provided by Ms. Collins). 

FFP: Can you tell us about Beau?
Katey: [Beau is] an amazing young man who has Cerebral Palsy. He is in first grade, and as his Mom describes him, ‘He has strength, courage, and a will like no other. He has a determination that makes me so proud to be called his mom. Things may be tough for him but he always finds a way to overcome obstacles and he doesn't know the word can’t.’

Beau loves being active, and I truly enjoying doing races for him. He inspires me as I am training and racing. If I am feeling down or frustrated I just think about how many obstacles he has to overcome on a regular basis.

FFP: Are there any other personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
Katey: I have been fortunate enough to compete as an athlete in school, college, and as an adult. Sports have taught me countless life lessons that I pass on to my children, those in my community and those I work with. In order to give back, I have started a non-profit organization with my husband, GOAL. We raise money to pay sports registration fees for youth in the East Troy and Mukwonago communities in Wisconsin.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2015. The spring events will occur on May 23-24, 2015 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Madison Marathon Profile: Brent Kimbel and Bill Enright

If you’ve attended the Madison Marathon in the last few years, you may have seen Brent Kimbel (42) and Bill Enright (47) of Verona. They’re impossible to miss, because these gentlemen complete the entire race dressed head-to-toe as beer bottles. Their goal? To challenge others to have fun while they run. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked Brent and Bill—also known by their alter egos, “Mich” and “Ultra”—about why they run in such spectacularly unique style.

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Mich and Ultra, otherwise known as Bill Enright (left) and Brent Kimbel (right), wave to fans during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

Brent Kimbel gives a victory salute during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): Do you participate in other similar events? 
Brent: I've run 12 half or full marathons, at least 6 in costume, including the 2008 Ironman in Arizona, a couple of Half-IronMans (Racine and High Cliff), a few shorter triathlons (Capitol View), as well as the Haunted Hustle, the Green Bay Marathon, and the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathons.
Bill: Eleven for me including IronMan Wisconsin 2006 and 2009, Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon, and a bunch of Half-Marathon and Adventure Races for years.

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?  
Brent: Running in races such as this is a great way to put yourself in a very positive environment.  Everyone, racers and spectators alike, are out to have fun and are very encouraging to one another.  
Bill: It is the most healthy way to support our community events.

Bill Enright finishes strong at the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Edward Esmao

FFP: With so many races to choose from, what makes the Madison Marathon special?  
Brent: When you run in a hometown race you see and run with a lot of your friends so it is more like a party. I also like that the half marathon is a springtime race [Editor’s note: the Half Marathon distance is now offered in both spring and fall]; it motivates you to get out and run after being locked up inside for such a long winter, especially this year.
 
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Bill: Brent and I make it a little more fun than your average racer! We started off running as Ketchup and Mustard (I was Mustard), finishing the race at the World Famous Brat Fest. Now that the event is sponsored by Budweiser, we dress up as beer bottles — Mich and Ultra.  
Brent: Many people we talk to come to the starting line with a goal of "just beating the beer bottles."  Luckily we're not super fast runners, so a lot of people walk away happy.  We have a lot of fun encouraging the other runners along the way too, especially first timers.  It's hard to think about the pain when you are joking around with guys who are cracking jokes.
Bill: We like to think that our presence has resulted in the fastest total combined times for any Half in the country. Just our comical presence motivates a lot of other runners — there is no way they will let themselves be beat by two dudes dressed up like anything. 

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon? 
Bill: Just DO IT!
Brent: It's a well-run, organized, enjoyable race. The fan support is terrific — the community really comes out to cheer everyone on.  It doesn't matter what time you finish in, just that you are giving it your all.
 
FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you think we should know?  
Brent: When I stopped focusing on what my stopwatch read and just enjoyed the miles and the journey, running really became much more fun.  These days I don't even wear a watch.
Bill: If you are going to voluntarily do this to yourself you might as well make it fun.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Emily Kurian

Running is a family affair for Emily Kurian (age 30) of Madison, Wisconsin. Her journey as a runner started at a young age when her older brothers joined the junior high cross country team. She followed  in their footsteps. As wife of IronMan and accomplished regional runner Joe Kurian (winner of the 2006 Madison Marathon), Emily continues to race with the ultimate goal of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as a lifelong runner. She holds the title for 1st place woman in the 2013 Madison Marathon. Emily and husband Joe competed in the New York City Marathon on Sunday, November 2, 2014.

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about why she runs.

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Emily Kurian and husband Joe Kurian celebrate at the Rock 'N Roll Marathon in St. Louis. Photo credit; David Mari

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run?
Emily Kurian: I have run the Madison Half Marathon and Marathon, and will be taking on the Marathon again on November 9. (Editor's Note: Emily was the female winner of the 2013 Fall Madison Marathon, and 5th place overall.)

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?
Emily:  Growing up in Springfield, IL, one of my favorite races is the Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon.  Having recently moved to Madison, I am participating in more local races such as the New Year's Day dash, Madison Half Marathon in the spring, Madison Mini Marathon in the fall, as well as the Syttende Mai 20K.  I have also gotten into some really great trail runs like Bear Trax 20K in Kettle Moraine Park. 

Emily Kurian (left-center, jumping) at the Green Bay Marathon. Credit: David Mari

Emily's Personal Story
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Emily: When I was about 9 or 10, my older brothers joined the junior high cross country team.  I followed in their footsteps running cross country and track in high school and then continued to run cross country at St Louis University.   After college, I continued  to maintain my running to stay active.  While I have remained somewhat competitive and continue to race, my ultimate goal is to be a "lifelong runner" and  to maintain a healthy way of life.    

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?  
Emily: To have such an incredible event here in my backyard (somewhat literally), I couldn't NOT run it!!   Sharing the experience of running my daily routes through Madison with so many others is a thrill!   

FFP: Do you do anything special to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Emily: I am honored to have my husband, Joe Kurian, and his training partner, Thomas Brunold, both previous Madison Marathon winners, to train and race alongside me. They definitely help me through any rough spots along the way.  

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Emily: The course is great — both scenic and challenging!  
This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Ashley Matthys

During her seventh grade year in her hometown of Zumbrota, MN, Ashley Matthys (now age 24) missed the deadline to sign up for the soccer team. She decided to run instead, sparking a fire of passion for the sport. Now, Ashley is looking forward to her first Madison Marathon this November. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about the Madison Marathon and why she chose this event as her first full marathon race. 

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Ashley Matthys during the 2014 Madison Half Marathon (spring). Photo © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?
Ashley: This will be my first! I ran the half marathon in 2013 [and spring 2014]. Now I'm ready to take on 26.2.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? 
Ashley:  I have run the Twin Cities Marathon and the Madison Half Marathon in 2013 [and 2014], as well as the Get Lucky half marathon in Minneapolis this spring.  I've run a number of shorter-distance races including the UW Valentine's Day 5K, the Crazylegs 8K, the Color Run, and the Ugly Sweater 5K.

ASHLEY'S PERSONAL STORY 
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Ashley: Once I started running, I never looked back, running cross country in high school and then for Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.  

Running has become my getaway, my stress relief. It's how I've met some of my best friends (and my boyfriend!) and the way I've made a lot of my favorite memories. 

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?
Ashley: With a gorgeous view of the lakes and the Capitol, why wouldn't I? Madison has been my home for the past year and a half. It's where I trained for my first marathon. I know the loops around both lakes very well. I've heard great reviews from friends who have run it in the past and I'm ready to try out the course for myself. I'm excited to tackle the full marathon this fall!
 
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Ashley: I train and run with Michelle, one of my best friends and a teammate from college, who's now at UW. Training would be so much harder without someone running alongside to help me push through those really hot or really cold days. We've gone on 20+ mile runs, early in the morning and really late at night, and covered miles all over the UW Arboretum, downtown, through campus, and on the East and West side. Running is how I've gotten familiar with the streets of Madison.
 
I appreciate the people who don crazy costumes for these events and provide much needed comic relief, but I stick to my comfort zone, wearing the same thing for every race - my lucky green shorts (green means go!) and my Luther College Norse alumni jersey.
 
FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Ashley: Running a marathon is a blast. 'Fun' might not be the first word that comes to most people's minds when they think of pounding the pavement for hours (more likely it's "painful" or "exhausting") but it really is a great time. After logging countless hours of solitary miles, it's like the whole city shuts down to throw you a big party and celebrate your accomplishment. Spectators are such a crucial part of a race; there's a big running community here and many people supporting the participants. 

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that we should know?
Ashley: I'm planning to run the Boston Marathon in 2015!

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Anthony Garcia

Runner Anthony Garcia (26), Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, did not always think of himself as an athlete. "I was barely able to make three plays in touch football in college," he said – but Garcia decided to focus on his health and started running. After starting with fun runs, color runs, and mud runs, he got "pumped" for the first portion of the Conquer the Capitol challenge: completing both the Twilight 10K and Madison Half Marathon back-to-back. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked him about the Madison Marathon and why he chose it as his first long-distance race. 

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Anthony's Personal Story

On May 24, Anthony Garcia ran the Madison Marathon Twilight 10K, racing through the downtown streets at nightfall. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Paul McMahon

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Anthony: I love the competition of the race — not just against other runners but against your own mind. Being able to break through the barrier of your mind telling you to slow down or stop is a great feeling.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? What are a few of your favorites?
Anthony:  I've done the Warrior Dash in Illinois, Beach Dash in Chicago, and Color Run in Milwaukee as fun runs. The Warrior Dash was my favorite because of the combination of challenging obstacles and mud. I also did the Lucky Leprechaun 7k and Frostbite 5k, here in Wisconsin, and I travel to Iowa annually to do the Bix 7 race with family.

A mere twelve hours later, Garcia raced the Madison Half Marathon, finishing strong under a warm early summer sky. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Edward Esmao

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why did you choose to participate in the Madison Marathon? 
Anthony: What makes it special? My co-workers who have run the Madison Half Marathon before had mentioned that it is a challenge because of the hills. I was interested in a good challenge for my first half marathon. 

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Anthony:  I've been racing with my co-workers — it adds another level of competition and some bragging rights around the office.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Anthony: The "Conquer the Capitol" — a back-to-back 10K twilight run and half marathon in the spring, and a full marathon in the fall —offers a great opportunity to push yourself. The two back-to-back races took all I had; perhaps next year I will add the fall marathon and truly conquer the capitol.

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share? 
Anthony: I never would have thought I could become a runner. In college I was over 300 pounds. After graduation I began focusing on my health and getting into better shape. Now over 100 pounds lighter I'm pumped to challenge myself to complete. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it and work hard.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Jan Hagen

Madison athlete Janet (Jan) Hagen, age 65, is an avid runner. Between 2000 and 2003 she completed a marathon in each of the 50 states plus the District of Columbia. Hagen is headed for a triple-digit accomplishment: she will celebrate the completion of her 100th marathon when she crosses the Madison Marathon finish line on November 9th, 2014.

Focal Flame Photography, official race photographers for the 2014 Madison Marathon, asked Jan about her love of the sport.

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Jan Hagen competing in the 2013 Lake Monona 20K race. © 2013 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): You have completed four Madison Marathons. What other running events are your favorites?
Jan:  I have qualified for the Boston marathon and completed the race in 2012. Local favorites include:  Madison Mini Marathon, High Cliff Half-Ironman Triathlon, Green Lake (Ripon) Half Marathon, Silver Lake Triathlon, Lake Winneconne Triathlon, Chicago Half-Marathon, Wo Zha Wa Days Half Marathon, Syttende Mai 20 mile run, and Lake Monona 20K.

Jan Hagen's Personal Story

FFP: What does running in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Jan:  I enjoy setting fitness and wellness goals and the sense of accomplishment in achieving those goals.  

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?
Jan:  I have lived in Madison for over 30 years and have walked or run much of the marathon course at various times.  Running the Madison Marathon is a way to reflect on my past and the city's history and share in the excitement and energy of being a part of this great community. 

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Jan: I like to get in the spirit of a run on holidays and dress accordingly.  It is fun to see the creativity of other runners and the costumes they devise.  When I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2000 (it was held just before Halloween that year), a group of runners ran as a pumpkin: 8 runners together under a large orange canopy, each of them wearing a green “stem” hat. Now, that's teamwork in many senses of the word!!

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Jan: The Madison Marathon is special because it is a way to “showcase” the city to runners from other regions, states and countries.  It is a fun race, with a lot of variety and good crowd support.  

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share?  
Jan:  After completing my 100th marathon, I plan to continue running but in shorter distance races. Having been diagnosed with and successfully treated for thyroid cancer two years ago, and osteopenia and arthritis for the past several years, I am motivated to pursue a healthy lifestyle that includes running.  Once I can't run anymore, I plan to take up other fitness endeavors appropriate for my health status and hopefully inspire others to be more aware of how fitness contributes to a fulfilling lifestyle.

Jan's response to our questions included this inspirational quote:
"Winners are too busy to be sad, too positive to be doubtful, too optimistic to be fearful, too determined to be defeated."  - Anonymous

We salute Jan and all participants in the Fall Madison Marathon – whether the event is your first or 101st, we celebrate your accomplishment!

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Douglas Dulli

Madison, WI runner and neurologist Douglas Dulli (62) did not start running until just before his 40th birthday. He ran the very first Madison Marathon in 1994 and this year, the November 9 Madison Marathon will mark his 100th marathon event.

 Focal Flame Photography, official race photographers for the 2014 Madison Marathon, asked him about why he runs.

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Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run?
Douglas: Eight.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run?
Douglas:  I've run 94 marathons and have signed up for six more this year, the last – number 100 - being the Madison Marathon on November 9. I’ve done approximately 35 half-marathons.

Douglas Dulli competes not just in marathons, his favorite type of endurance event, but also triathlons. Here he shows a tough countenance during the 2013 Devil's Challenge Triathlon. © 2013 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?
Douglas: I love the longer distance triathlons (half and full IronMan) because they are so much fun and much in the spirit of marathoning.  I run many shorter races, both to keep up my tempo speed and to participate in these wonderful community events. Lake Monona and Shamrock Shuffle are two of my favorites, as are the Berbee Derby, the sprint triathlons of the Wisconsin Tri Series, the High Cliff and Door County half-IronMans.  

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
Douglas: I've run the Boston Marathon 10 times, beginning in 1994 when there were only 8,700 competitors. My personal record in the marathon is 3:06:27, set in 1995 at Lakefront Marathon, at age 44.

My race highlights include:

• IronMan Wisconsin: 5 times (2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011)
• 50-mile ultra marathon:  2 times
• Half-IronMan triathlon: about 12 times
• Community 5/10/15/20K running races and sprint triathlon: too many to count
• Birkebeiner XC ski race: 2 times 
• 100-mile bicycle races (e.g., Dairyland Dare, Oconomowoc 100, Race the Lake): about 10

Douglas Dulli’s Personal Story

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Douglas: Endurance races all have a sense of adventure in the challenge of merely getting to the finish line. With the marathon, "hitting the wall" at mile 17 or so may literally take one out of the race. With experience, that adventure becomes more rather than less exciting to me...I love every aspect of the race, from the preparation the night before to crossing mile 26 and seeing the big "FINISH" in the distance. Even when I don't do as well, I have the satisfaction of putting on that finisher's medal, and the reward of 26 miles worth of endorphin. There's nothing like it!

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?  
Douglas: I am from Madison and am first and foremost a marathon runner. It fits! The Madison Marathon is neither easy nor especially predictable. But it's my home and since most of my running "career" has been on its streets, I feel a special bond to it.

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Douglas: I've coached first-time marathoners for the fundraiser "Train to End Stroke" and the Disney Marathon. I've trained with Movin' Shoes and HeadHunters, a local triathlon club. I also ran with my son to pace him for his first marathon.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Douglas: It's well supported, it's a lot of fun, but it "ain't easy"!

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share
Douglas: All endurance athletes have a favorite or "specialty" race. Mine is the marathon. But we all, as athletes, have found such rewards associated with running, biking, swimming, or skiing distance that I am excited to see this culture as a whole develop. I'm particularly glad to see the proliferation of races like the Madison Half-Marathon, which makes endurance running more attainable for beginners or runners with their own challenges. Above all these benefits, I think it's most inspiring to be able to think of oneself as an athlete, a concept which is so foreign to many of us who didn't excel in high school team sports. The many other cardiac and health benefits are so important but secondary to that psychological one. 

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in the Madison Half Marathon or Madison Marathon on November 9, 2014.  For more information and to register, visit Madison Marathon. 

- Interview by Deb Proctor