New Chapter: From Ironman Kona to Boston Dreams-

 

New Chapter: From Ironman Kona to Boston Dreams-

Crossing the finish line in Kona will forever be one of the most meaningful chapters of my life. That journey gave me strength, resilience, purpose, and a community I love with my whole heart.

After finishing Ironman Kona — completing 210.9 miles between the half Ironman on Saturday and the full Ironman on Sunday — I realized it was time to chase another dream I’ve held close for many years. I first wrote about it back in 2010, but I never pursued it because my heart was fully set on Kona. Kona required everything: endurance, speed, focus, and sacrifice. With a family and all the responsibilities that came with life, I couldn’t chase both dreams at once.

Now, I’m returning to the dream I thought about in 2010.

So I’m choosing a different path — not easier, just different.
I’m taking the next year or two to focus on qualifying for the Boston Marathon.

This dream isn’t new. It just took time to circle back to it. After 18 years of chasing Kona, I finally made that dream a reality. With 15 Ironman finishes behind me, I know what true commitment feels like — and I know exactly what I’m capable of.

Finishing my recent 50-miler reminded me how much I love the rhythm of long-distance running. But this next chapter isn’t about distance — it’s about speed, focus, and unlocking the potential I know is still inside me.

As I ease into this new direction, I keep reminding myself:
Left foot, right foot, repeat. Keep moving forward FAST!

At 52, I’m ready to see how fast I can truly go. Back in 2010, I ran the Chicago Marathon in 3:47 (under someone else’s bib — back when that was allowed). The speed was there once… and it can be there again.

My plan is to run three marathons this season as steppingstones toward Boston and then close out the year with another 50-miler in October.

I want to try to achieve this before Korbin turns 18. I want this to be something our family experiences together.

And through it all, I will continue running every mile for Jennah and for others — a reminder that no one ever fights alone. On my journey to Boston, I’ll keep raising funds and honoring every individual and family facing cancer.

Maybe I’ll qualify for Boston. And if I don’t, I’ll keep trying.
The goal is simple:
Chase the speed. Chase the fire. Chase the dream. “Chase for the unicorn!”
Because no matter how long your goals take, don’t stop. One day you won’t be able to chase your dreams…
so chase them now — left foot, right foot, repeat. FAST🏃🏻‍♀️‍➡️🦄
#cancersucks #bostonstrong #chasetheunicorn #ironsunshine☀️
#chasingthesun

I'm an Ultrarunner

 

One of the most special highlights of this race wasn’t the miles or the finish line — it was the names on my back.

Throughout the day, runners would pass by, gently place a hand on my shoulder or back, and say a name out loud. Just so amazing!

Those names carried me~

Medal Monday ~

What an exhilarating Saturday it was. The alarm sounded at 3:00 AM, and the excitement kicked in immediately. Getting ready to rock and roll felt absolutely incredible. The hour-long bus ride to the starting line brought its own fun. Sleep proved impossible, largely due to one very enthusiastic talker nearby, although the laughter and anticipation made up for it. During that ride, I looked over every single name on my bib. Names texted to me, shared in class, spoken by friends, loved ones, and community. The realization of what and who I was running for became overwhelming in the best possible way.

This race meant even more because earlier in May, after seeing my doctor, I genuinely did not know if I would be able to accomplish this goal. My heart was broken. A new adventure was on the line, and my knee was not cooperating. It felt like everything I trained for might slip away. Through the right rehabilitation, the correct training plan (KT TAPE), and a fierce determination to heal, I kept working. Mile by mile, day by day, my body began to respond. Crossing this finish line proved what I needed to hear: never give up on a goal. Heart, determination, and a powerful purpose can turn doubt into triumph.

Arriving at the tip of Door County for the start was breathtaking. Even in the darkness, the stars were shining, headlamps were glowing, and athletes were buzzing with energy everywhere. I chose not to do my signature star plank because so many runners were lined up capturing their own special moment at the start. I felt blessed simply standing there and absorbing the atmosphere. “SO INCREDIBLE!”

The gun went off, and pure adrenaline surged. I had been waiting to say it for months: “Mile 1 done, 49 to go.” The miles rolled forward with shared energy among fellow runners. We checked in with strangers who felt like teammates, exchanging smiles and encouragement. The scenery was absolutely stunning: autumn leaves, the fresh smell of nature, scenic roads that ranged from smooth and pleasant to… less so. Trails added adventure under our feet, and the volunteers were heroic. So many athletes noticed my bib and patted me on the back saying, “Go Jennah,” or “Go Team.” Some even told me they loved the purpose behind the run. Those moments fueled me.

Not every mile was easy. Tears came at times (athletes talking to me about my bibs), and cramps came with force. Pickle juice helped, although it also made me sick for a few miles. At one steep downhill, both hamstrings seized and I had to stop instantly. A fellow runner kindly offered to carry me, which made me laugh despite the pain. I thanked him, declined, and reminded us of both that every one of those 50 miles needed to be earned on two feet.

Cell service disappeared, so I could not update Facebook the way I hoped. My family did everything possible to track me, and I pushed forward remembering every name placed on my bib. Those individuals and families have walked harder roads than mine. Their battles against cancer gave me strength every single step. As a two-time cancer survivor (20 years Cancer free) I know the fight firsthand. Carrying their names truly helped me through every struggle. Thank you all for allowing me to honor and keep the memory of your friends and family who have battled cancer, are currently fighting, or are watching over us from above.

A very special thank you to my amazing husband I love you babes, my kids, and others for the early morning messages cheering me on. Thank you as well to my Mom, Bethanne, and Marie for waking up so early just to call, say “I love you,” and wish me good luck. I appreciate you all more than you will ever know. Your love and belief in me mean everything.

I cannot fully express the gratitude I have for my friends, my family, and my YMCA community for the support, love, and motivation they have poured into me throughout this entire journey. The Fall 50 was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and I am already looking forward to next year. I intend to return stronger, faster, and with even more names on my bib. More honor. More hope. More miles for Jennah and for everyone touched by cancer.

What an absolutely incredible day. 
Now off to the next adventure…