Ultimate Fit
Runner of the month
The Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month is back! To nominate, email [email protected]. Please do so by the 15th of each month. In December, the 12 ROM will be entered to win a new pair of shoes from Ultimate Fit! Also, each winner will receive 1 free entry to a Tri-State Fitness Race in 2025!
**In email give brief reason why nominating.
**For those not selected, the nomination you send will continue to carry over month to month.
**In email give brief reason why nominating.
**For those not selected, the nomination you send will continue to carry over month to month.
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November 2025
Hey everyone! I’m Kamy Reese, 35-year-old wife to Craig and mom to two teenage boys Ryan & Khale. We live in Princeton, where I work for my dad and coach high school soccer.
I started running back in 2012 after having my second son — mostly to make friends — and I’ve been hooked ever since! In the past 13 years I’ve probably run around 150 races. I currently run around 40-60 miles a week depending on what I’m training for.
My first full marathon was the Monumental in Indy in 2019 (still my favorite!). Since then I’ve done two more marathons and even a 50K ultramarathon. I love racing all distances, but half marathons have my heart especially the Evansville Half. I also really enjoy hitting the Tri-State Fitness race routes whenever I can.
Some of my favorite running memories are any races I get to share with my mom and my cousin Steph.
The absolute top memory was when some of my girlfriends came to Indy and surprised me at the marathon.
I’ve tried tons of running shoes, but thanks to Ultimate Fit, I’m currently obsessed with my ASICS Novablasts. My perfect run is around 7 a.m., about 50° out, music in my ears, and ending with an ice-cold Prairie Farms chocolate milk.
My goals are to run a marathon in all 50 states, earn all my stars, and one day run a 24-hour race.
I started running back in 2012 after having my second son — mostly to make friends — and I’ve been hooked ever since! In the past 13 years I’ve probably run around 150 races. I currently run around 40-60 miles a week depending on what I’m training for.
My first full marathon was the Monumental in Indy in 2019 (still my favorite!). Since then I’ve done two more marathons and even a 50K ultramarathon. I love racing all distances, but half marathons have my heart especially the Evansville Half. I also really enjoy hitting the Tri-State Fitness race routes whenever I can.
Some of my favorite running memories are any races I get to share with my mom and my cousin Steph.
The absolute top memory was when some of my girlfriends came to Indy and surprised me at the marathon.
I’ve tried tons of running shoes, but thanks to Ultimate Fit, I’m currently obsessed with my ASICS Novablasts. My perfect run is around 7 a.m., about 50° out, music in my ears, and ending with an ice-cold Prairie Farms chocolate milk.
My goals are to run a marathon in all 50 states, earn all my stars, and one day run a 24-hour race.
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October 2025
Congrats to our October Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Katie Healy! Here is more on Katie "Hi! My name is Katie Healy and I have lived in Evansville my whole life. I have been teaching first grade at Hebron for 9 years and am the coach of the Girls on the Run running club there. When I’m not running, I love to hang out with my dog Belle or be outside with my friends. "
What motivates you to run/walk?
My sister has always been my biggest motivator! We run just about every race together. We cheer one another on and have always pushed the other to be the best runner we can be.
How many races have you participated in?
I have lost count of my endless amount of 5Ks, 10k, 10milers, etc but I am training for my 6th half marathon in October. I have also done 4 tough mudders which are by far the most fun races!
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively?
I started running my sophomore year of high school when my teacher told me I should run!
Favorite place to run/walk?
the riverfront
Favorite local race?
My favorite local race is probably the Turkey Day 5k! I love being able to run it with my family and seeing so many people come out!
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State?
My favorite race outside of Evansville is the Tough Mudders I do with a bunch of my friends at the end of every summer. It is a 15k with 20 obstacles!
Farthest you have traveled to do a race?
I am working on doing a half in every state! So far, I’ve done Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee and I’m about to do Ohio!
Favorite race distance?
I love running half’s.
Favorite race memory?
Helping my sister cross the finish line at her first half!
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink?
Honestly, a good ol’ smoothie from tropical smoothie is the BEST post race drink or a coffee lol
What is your favorite brand of running shoe?
My favorite running shoe is BY FAR brooks Glycerins. Right now, I have the Ghosts and I love them.
How many miles do you run/walk a week?
Right now, I do about 15-20 miles a week or at least try!
What are your future goals for running/walking?
My future goals is to keep working hard in my running and running more half’s. I hope one day I can try to run a full marathon!
Favorite time of day to run?
Evening
Favorite weather to run in?
Fall
Music or no music?
music for sure! I hate the quiet!
What motivates you to run/walk?
My sister has always been my biggest motivator! We run just about every race together. We cheer one another on and have always pushed the other to be the best runner we can be.
How many races have you participated in?
I have lost count of my endless amount of 5Ks, 10k, 10milers, etc but I am training for my 6th half marathon in October. I have also done 4 tough mudders which are by far the most fun races!
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively?
I started running my sophomore year of high school when my teacher told me I should run!
Favorite place to run/walk?
the riverfront
Favorite local race?
My favorite local race is probably the Turkey Day 5k! I love being able to run it with my family and seeing so many people come out!
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State?
My favorite race outside of Evansville is the Tough Mudders I do with a bunch of my friends at the end of every summer. It is a 15k with 20 obstacles!
Farthest you have traveled to do a race?
I am working on doing a half in every state! So far, I’ve done Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee and I’m about to do Ohio!
Favorite race distance?
I love running half’s.
Favorite race memory?
Helping my sister cross the finish line at her first half!
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink?
Honestly, a good ol’ smoothie from tropical smoothie is the BEST post race drink or a coffee lol
What is your favorite brand of running shoe?
My favorite running shoe is BY FAR brooks Glycerins. Right now, I have the Ghosts and I love them.
How many miles do you run/walk a week?
Right now, I do about 15-20 miles a week or at least try!
What are your future goals for running/walking?
My future goals is to keep working hard in my running and running more half’s. I hope one day I can try to run a full marathon!
Favorite time of day to run?
Evening
Favorite weather to run in?
Fall
Music or no music?
music for sure! I hate the quiet!
September 2025
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Congrats to our September Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Rojelio Diaz! Here is more on Rojelio "My name is Rojelio Diaz, I'm 20 years old with 3 kids born and raised right here in Evansville, and I'm also the local trainer here at planet fitness."
What motivates you to run/walk?
I have a competitive nature I love to compete no matter what it is also want to see how much my body can take, in hopes of becoming close to elite runner or amateur.
How many races have you participated in?
Only 9-10 I've only competed for a year or so.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively?
19 years old what got me into running was boxing having to go for long runs i dreaded it but when life got hectic I wanted something easy and accessible to keep me in shape which ended up being running, I've only competed for a few months but it'll be something I do for the rest of my life .
Favorite place to run/walk?
As of right now USI or Newburgh
Favorite local race?
As of right now the Waymakers miracle event.
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State?
Haven't raced to much out of the Tri-State just yet but probably the Firefly Festival race in New Harmony.
Farthest you have traveled to do a race?
Only about 25-30 minutes but not for long
Favorite race distance?
Half because it's not a full sprint like the shorter races and you have time to settle and come back in the later miles.
Favorite race memory?
My first race I seen my mom and the group or kids she was working with start cheering me on just made my heart melt.
Funniest race memory?
I'm like 600 meters away from the finish line and just get to throwing up mid stride.
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race?
Some guy had to be taken in an a ambulance because he passed out during the race.
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink?
Pre meal is fruit and a couple scoops of electrolytes, post meal either Mexican food or Japanese food.
What is your favorite brand of running shoe?
Got to go with Asics or Adidas.
How many miles do you run/walk a week?
Right now 35-40 but when training for marathon I try to get 50+.
What are your future goals for running/walking?
Future goals is to get sponsored by some Amateur brands or even Elite Brands.
Favorite time of day to run?
Mornings got to goget up and get it out the way.
Favorite weather to run in?
Fall weather not to hot and not to cold.
Music or no music?
Got to have music especially for my long runs get me in a different mode.
What motivates you to run/walk?
I have a competitive nature I love to compete no matter what it is also want to see how much my body can take, in hopes of becoming close to elite runner or amateur.
How many races have you participated in?
Only 9-10 I've only competed for a year or so.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively?
19 years old what got me into running was boxing having to go for long runs i dreaded it but when life got hectic I wanted something easy and accessible to keep me in shape which ended up being running, I've only competed for a few months but it'll be something I do for the rest of my life .
Favorite place to run/walk?
As of right now USI or Newburgh
Favorite local race?
As of right now the Waymakers miracle event.
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State?
Haven't raced to much out of the Tri-State just yet but probably the Firefly Festival race in New Harmony.
Farthest you have traveled to do a race?
Only about 25-30 minutes but not for long
Favorite race distance?
Half because it's not a full sprint like the shorter races and you have time to settle and come back in the later miles.
Favorite race memory?
My first race I seen my mom and the group or kids she was working with start cheering me on just made my heart melt.
Funniest race memory?
I'm like 600 meters away from the finish line and just get to throwing up mid stride.
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race?
Some guy had to be taken in an a ambulance because he passed out during the race.
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink?
Pre meal is fruit and a couple scoops of electrolytes, post meal either Mexican food or Japanese food.
What is your favorite brand of running shoe?
Got to go with Asics or Adidas.
How many miles do you run/walk a week?
Right now 35-40 but when training for marathon I try to get 50+.
What are your future goals for running/walking?
Future goals is to get sponsored by some Amateur brands or even Elite Brands.
Favorite time of day to run?
Mornings got to goget up and get it out the way.
Favorite weather to run in?
Fall weather not to hot and not to cold.
Music or no music?
Got to have music especially for my long runs get me in a different mode.
August 2025
Congrats to our August Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Samuel Strange! Here is more on Sam: "I am 76 and live in Loogootee, Indiana. Retired and enjoying life. Single since 2002. Just Chewey and myself!
What motivates you to run/walk? When I was in my late 30's I had quit smoking then started to gain weight. At 39 a friend wanted me to join the Army Reserves on a Tri-One program. I was accepted into the infantry and started running to get in shape. Lost weight and loved the way it made me feel
How many races have you participated in? Well over 1000!
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? 39
Favorite place to run/walk? Loved running in the desert in Nevada!
Favorite local race? Cave run in Marengo, Indiana on July 4th. 2 miles inside a cave
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? Lost River Cave run in Bowling Green, Kentucky
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? 400 Miles
Favorite race distance? 5K now that I'm older.
Favorite race memory? Finishing the Indy Mini with a new mini PR
Funniest race memory? One race in Henderson I was sent to 3 different races to get registered
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race? A man juggling running backwards, and he pasted me
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Energy bar and water pre-race and Denny's pancakes post race.
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Altra=wide toe box
How many miles do you run/walk a week? 25-35 depending on how I feel and the weather.
What are your future goals for running/walking? Just want to run until I can't! Love to exercise because I feel good when I do.
Favorite time of day to run? Early morning when the sun is just coming up.
Favorite weather to run in? Light wind and 45-50 degrees.
Music or no music? Train with music but never race with it.
What motivates you to run/walk? When I was in my late 30's I had quit smoking then started to gain weight. At 39 a friend wanted me to join the Army Reserves on a Tri-One program. I was accepted into the infantry and started running to get in shape. Lost weight and loved the way it made me feel
How many races have you participated in? Well over 1000!
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? 39
Favorite place to run/walk? Loved running in the desert in Nevada!
Favorite local race? Cave run in Marengo, Indiana on July 4th. 2 miles inside a cave
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? Lost River Cave run in Bowling Green, Kentucky
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? 400 Miles
Favorite race distance? 5K now that I'm older.
Favorite race memory? Finishing the Indy Mini with a new mini PR
Funniest race memory? One race in Henderson I was sent to 3 different races to get registered
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race? A man juggling running backwards, and he pasted me
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Energy bar and water pre-race and Denny's pancakes post race.
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Altra=wide toe box
How many miles do you run/walk a week? 25-35 depending on how I feel and the weather.
What are your future goals for running/walking? Just want to run until I can't! Love to exercise because I feel good when I do.
Favorite time of day to run? Early morning when the sun is just coming up.
Favorite weather to run in? Light wind and 45-50 degrees.
Music or no music? Train with music but never race with it.
July 2025
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Congrats to our July Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Jordan Lutz! Here is more on Jordan, "I am 36 and am originally from Chandler, IN. I am married to my wife Jessica and we have 5 kids, ages 11, 10, 8, and twins who are 5. We live in Evansville."
What motivates you to run/walk? It is a great way to stay active, de-stress, and is a good opportunity to have my own time to pray.
How many races have you participated in? 2 full marathons, 53 half marathons, and over 100 other races.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? I started running competitively in 2016.
Favorite place to run/walk? Back roads for local running.
Favorite local race? Wendell Foster half marathon. It is a nice course, well organized, and goes to a great cause.
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? CNO Financial marathon and half marathon races in Indianapolis
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? I completed a three race series in Key West, Florida. It was a 5k, 10k, & half marathon in two days.
Favorite race distance? Half Marathon
Favorite race memory? Running with my kids now that they are getting older.
Funniest race memory? My son ran a Donut 5k with me, he ate 3 donuts during the race and still had a 8:30 pace.
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race? While completing the races in Key West, there were roosters and peacocks everywhere on the course.
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Pre-race: spaghetti Post-race: Culver’s Cheeseburger & Custard
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? On Clouds
How many miles do you run/walk a week? 30-40+ when training for half marathons; 15-20 for a regular week
What are your future goals for running/walking? I will complete 100 half marathons by the time I’m 45.
Favorite time of day to run? The Evening
Favorite weather to run in? Fall like weather
Music or no music? I listen to music about 60% of the time, I generally don’t when on my long runs.
What motivates you to run/walk? It is a great way to stay active, de-stress, and is a good opportunity to have my own time to pray.
How many races have you participated in? 2 full marathons, 53 half marathons, and over 100 other races.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? I started running competitively in 2016.
Favorite place to run/walk? Back roads for local running.
Favorite local race? Wendell Foster half marathon. It is a nice course, well organized, and goes to a great cause.
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? CNO Financial marathon and half marathon races in Indianapolis
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? I completed a three race series in Key West, Florida. It was a 5k, 10k, & half marathon in two days.
Favorite race distance? Half Marathon
Favorite race memory? Running with my kids now that they are getting older.
Funniest race memory? My son ran a Donut 5k with me, he ate 3 donuts during the race and still had a 8:30 pace.
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race? While completing the races in Key West, there were roosters and peacocks everywhere on the course.
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Pre-race: spaghetti Post-race: Culver’s Cheeseburger & Custard
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? On Clouds
How many miles do you run/walk a week? 30-40+ when training for half marathons; 15-20 for a regular week
What are your future goals for running/walking? I will complete 100 half marathons by the time I’m 45.
Favorite time of day to run? The Evening
Favorite weather to run in? Fall like weather
Music or no music? I listen to music about 60% of the time, I generally don’t when on my long runs.
June 2025
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Congrats to our June Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Danny Hinton! Here is more about Danny: My name is Danny Hinton. I have been married to my beautiful wife for 23 years. We both work in education. She is a elementary school teacher and I am an educational interpreter for the Deaf. I've been an interpreter for the Deaf for 27 years! I'm currently living in Owensboro, Ky.
What motivates you to run/walk? My motivation to run came initially because someone told me I couldn't. Just over a year ago, I weighed 341 pounds and had been that heavy for nearly 20 years. I decided that I wanted to be healthier and feel better. The first personal trainer I met with told me thought I'd never be able to run because I was so heavy... THAT DAY, I went and joined another gym and got on a treadmill. I was only able to run 0.10 of a mile. But I went back 6 days a week and ran. Within a month, I had run my first mile. I kept going each day and within a few months, I could run a 5K. At that point, I came off of the treadmill and started to run outside. I fell in love with trails and running early in the morning.
How many races have you participated in? I think I've run nearly 40 races now. I've run dozens of 5K's and 10K's, 4 half marathons and have my first trail half marathon this upcoming weekend. My longest training run to date has been 18 miles!
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? Not counting the miles I ran years ago in the Army, I didn't start running until I was 48 years old!
Favorite place to run/walk? 4am is my favorite time! There is just something about being alone, under the stars, when everything is quiet. Most of my morning runs are road runs, but running trails is my happy place. You just can't beat a single track through the woods at night, or super early in the morning!!
Favorite local race? The Wendell Foster Half Marathon in Owensboro is local for me. It feels like a big city race here at home. There is so much community support for that race! every quarter mile is a new group of cheerleaders, and fans to help push you through a fast a flat course!!
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? So far, the best road race I've done has to be the Indy Mini Marathon. Getting a chance to run on the brickyard with 25,000 people is a pretty cool feeling!
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? My brother has fallen in love with running as well, so I've gotten a chance to spend some time with him running. This past summer I traveled to North Georgia to support him running his first half marathon.
Favorite race distance? Half Marathon. I'm definitely a slower runner but I make up in stamina what I lack in speed. I may not beat anyone in a sprint, but over the past year I've built a heck of an aerobic base and can chug along for a good long while. I rarely get a chance to pass anyone at the beginning of a half, but by mile 8, all the days of 4am runs start paying off!!!
Favorite race memory? EVERY TIME i stand in a start corral, it's an emotional experience for me. I spent so many years unhealthy and unable to do things like this, that I don't take my new found lungs, heart, and legs for granted. EVERY race memory is one I feel like I should cherish, because, let's be honest, I shouldn't be here. I was the fat guy who watched others go do things. I never dreamed I'd have a wall full of medals, a closet full of running shoes, and 1000+ miles under my belt in year one. EVERY run, (EVEN THE BAD ONES) are memories Ill cherish!!
Funniest race memory? Throwing up at the Horse Capital Half Marathon in Lexington, Ky and screaming to the medical staff, "I don't know why this is happening... ALL my fueling, all my hydration, is EXACTLY like what I did when I was training. Only to find out the next day that I had gotten the stomach bug from a co-worker"....
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race? Saw a guy try to pee while running during a race last year.... wasn't pretty!
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Can't lie, I'm a sucker for Nelly's restaurant breakfast after a Tri-State Fit race. I think that became the tradition. Freeking Freezing, Freaking Frozen, President's Day... all those races were quickly followed up with breakfast at Nelly's
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Altra!!! I am currently running in the Altra Paradigm 7 zero drop road shoes, Trail- I LOVE my Lone Peak 8's
How many miles do you run/walk a week? I currently run somewhere between 35-40 miles per week. Most weeks are T,W TH,F I run a 10K each morning at 4:30am. Sunday's I tend to run the Half Marathon distance or longer. But recently, I've started training for my first Triathlon, so I'm doing some brick work and swimming as well.
What are your future goals for running/walking? I want to continue to grow and improve as a runner. I know all too well that BIG change happens not with big effort but with consistent effort. Running is a sport that you can literally continually grow and improve on day by day. Not so long ago, a 5K seemed way out of the realm of possibilities, now it's just a warm up. My hopes are to complete a trail half and a triathlon this summer, begin training for a full marathon this fall and hopefully complete that in the spring of next year. I'm optimistic that an ultra may not be outside the realm of possibilities, but i'm content to just take the journey one day at a time and thank my body for each step it makes.
Favorite time of day to run? 4:30 am - without a doubt! Nothing better than knocking out 30,000 steps before the sun comes up!
Favorite weather to run in? Brisk cool morning with fog on trails, or a rainy summer morning on the road!
Music or no music? MUSIC!!!! .....sorta.. If it's a normal morning run, I'll listen to music for sure.... but trails, I tend to just enjoy the sounds of nature!!
What motivates you to run/walk? My motivation to run came initially because someone told me I couldn't. Just over a year ago, I weighed 341 pounds and had been that heavy for nearly 20 years. I decided that I wanted to be healthier and feel better. The first personal trainer I met with told me thought I'd never be able to run because I was so heavy... THAT DAY, I went and joined another gym and got on a treadmill. I was only able to run 0.10 of a mile. But I went back 6 days a week and ran. Within a month, I had run my first mile. I kept going each day and within a few months, I could run a 5K. At that point, I came off of the treadmill and started to run outside. I fell in love with trails and running early in the morning.
How many races have you participated in? I think I've run nearly 40 races now. I've run dozens of 5K's and 10K's, 4 half marathons and have my first trail half marathon this upcoming weekend. My longest training run to date has been 18 miles!
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? Not counting the miles I ran years ago in the Army, I didn't start running until I was 48 years old!
Favorite place to run/walk? 4am is my favorite time! There is just something about being alone, under the stars, when everything is quiet. Most of my morning runs are road runs, but running trails is my happy place. You just can't beat a single track through the woods at night, or super early in the morning!!
Favorite local race? The Wendell Foster Half Marathon in Owensboro is local for me. It feels like a big city race here at home. There is so much community support for that race! every quarter mile is a new group of cheerleaders, and fans to help push you through a fast a flat course!!
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? So far, the best road race I've done has to be the Indy Mini Marathon. Getting a chance to run on the brickyard with 25,000 people is a pretty cool feeling!
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? My brother has fallen in love with running as well, so I've gotten a chance to spend some time with him running. This past summer I traveled to North Georgia to support him running his first half marathon.
Favorite race distance? Half Marathon. I'm definitely a slower runner but I make up in stamina what I lack in speed. I may not beat anyone in a sprint, but over the past year I've built a heck of an aerobic base and can chug along for a good long while. I rarely get a chance to pass anyone at the beginning of a half, but by mile 8, all the days of 4am runs start paying off!!!
Favorite race memory? EVERY TIME i stand in a start corral, it's an emotional experience for me. I spent so many years unhealthy and unable to do things like this, that I don't take my new found lungs, heart, and legs for granted. EVERY race memory is one I feel like I should cherish, because, let's be honest, I shouldn't be here. I was the fat guy who watched others go do things. I never dreamed I'd have a wall full of medals, a closet full of running shoes, and 1000+ miles under my belt in year one. EVERY run, (EVEN THE BAD ONES) are memories Ill cherish!!
Funniest race memory? Throwing up at the Horse Capital Half Marathon in Lexington, Ky and screaming to the medical staff, "I don't know why this is happening... ALL my fueling, all my hydration, is EXACTLY like what I did when I was training. Only to find out the next day that I had gotten the stomach bug from a co-worker"....
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race? Saw a guy try to pee while running during a race last year.... wasn't pretty!
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Can't lie, I'm a sucker for Nelly's restaurant breakfast after a Tri-State Fit race. I think that became the tradition. Freeking Freezing, Freaking Frozen, President's Day... all those races were quickly followed up with breakfast at Nelly's
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Altra!!! I am currently running in the Altra Paradigm 7 zero drop road shoes, Trail- I LOVE my Lone Peak 8's
How many miles do you run/walk a week? I currently run somewhere between 35-40 miles per week. Most weeks are T,W TH,F I run a 10K each morning at 4:30am. Sunday's I tend to run the Half Marathon distance or longer. But recently, I've started training for my first Triathlon, so I'm doing some brick work and swimming as well.
What are your future goals for running/walking? I want to continue to grow and improve as a runner. I know all too well that BIG change happens not with big effort but with consistent effort. Running is a sport that you can literally continually grow and improve on day by day. Not so long ago, a 5K seemed way out of the realm of possibilities, now it's just a warm up. My hopes are to complete a trail half and a triathlon this summer, begin training for a full marathon this fall and hopefully complete that in the spring of next year. I'm optimistic that an ultra may not be outside the realm of possibilities, but i'm content to just take the journey one day at a time and thank my body for each step it makes.
Favorite time of day to run? 4:30 am - without a doubt! Nothing better than knocking out 30,000 steps before the sun comes up!
Favorite weather to run in? Brisk cool morning with fog on trails, or a rainy summer morning on the road!
Music or no music? MUSIC!!!! .....sorta.. If it's a normal morning run, I'll listen to music for sure.... but trails, I tend to just enjoy the sounds of nature!!
May 2025
Congrats to our May Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Libby Wagner! Here is more about Libby:
I grew up in Evansville and starting running cross country in middle school, continuing through high school. I took a break after that and then started back up several years later and have been running for the past 15 or so years. I’ve spent my career in wealth management with Hilliard Lyons which is now Baird Private Wealth for the past 24 years. My favorite race/run is Ragnar which is an overnight team trail relay because I love running with friends.
What motivates you to run/walk? I love being outside and running alongside friends. For me, it’s about camaraderie.
How many races have you participated in? I have no idea really, but would guess at least 75.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? I started running competitively in the 8th grade and through HS. When I run a race, I’m always pushing myself.
Favorite place to run/walk? Audubon State Park for trails but RunWalk 812 for road running. Wherever the route, is always a great place to run.
Favorite local race? Turkey Day 5k and Evansville Half
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? Land Between the Lakes Trail Run
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? Vermont
Favorite race distance? Spartan Beast (Half marathon with 30+ obstacles)
Favorite race memory? Completing my first Spartan Ultra (50k with 70+ obstacles)
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Favorite post race meal is a Half Moon and Latte from Honey Moon Coffee
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Brooks
How many miles do you run/walk a week? Run 15-20
What are your future goals for running/walking? Complete the Spartan Ultra in Vermont
Favorite time of day to run? Morning
Favorite weather to run in? Cloudy and 55-60 degrees
Music or no music? When I’m running, I want to be present where I am and listen to nature all around me.
I grew up in Evansville and starting running cross country in middle school, continuing through high school. I took a break after that and then started back up several years later and have been running for the past 15 or so years. I’ve spent my career in wealth management with Hilliard Lyons which is now Baird Private Wealth for the past 24 years. My favorite race/run is Ragnar which is an overnight team trail relay because I love running with friends.
What motivates you to run/walk? I love being outside and running alongside friends. For me, it’s about camaraderie.
How many races have you participated in? I have no idea really, but would guess at least 75.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? I started running competitively in the 8th grade and through HS. When I run a race, I’m always pushing myself.
Favorite place to run/walk? Audubon State Park for trails but RunWalk 812 for road running. Wherever the route, is always a great place to run.
Favorite local race? Turkey Day 5k and Evansville Half
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? Land Between the Lakes Trail Run
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? Vermont
Favorite race distance? Spartan Beast (Half marathon with 30+ obstacles)
Favorite race memory? Completing my first Spartan Ultra (50k with 70+ obstacles)
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Favorite post race meal is a Half Moon and Latte from Honey Moon Coffee
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Brooks
How many miles do you run/walk a week? Run 15-20
What are your future goals for running/walking? Complete the Spartan Ultra in Vermont
Favorite time of day to run? Morning
Favorite weather to run in? Cloudy and 55-60 degrees
Music or no music? When I’m running, I want to be present where I am and listen to nature all around me.
April 2025
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Congrats to our April Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Sarah Healy! Here is more about Sarah:
My names Sarah, I'm the youngest of 3. I have a brother and then a AMAZING sister named Katie that is probably the whole reason I'm in to running so much. Katie and I are always in (friendly) competition between each other. I keep saying I want more medals than her (even though might not be possible). I also have 2 pups named Charli and Cedar, and Cedar is my favorite running buddy. My handsome fiancé's name is Taylor and he pushes me daily to do my best and texts me mid-run encouragements!!
What motivates you to run/walk? Beer... Especially Busch light + Beating my sister
How many races have you participated in? So many.. Any race I can achieve a medal at is always memorable and I am currently training for my upcoming half marathon in April in Louisville.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? I think I got the most serious once I signed up for the Louisville half. So maybe like 3-4 months ago.
Favorite place to run/walk? LOVE running on the east side on Bellemeade because it's connected to a lot of other streets that are super nice to run on + they are flat
Favorite local race? The run of luck was fun!
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? I only do races within the tri-state so I’m unsure.
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? Will be Louisville in April :)
Favorite race distance? I hate to say it but I do honestly like running half's better because I can pace myself and not full on sprint the whole time
Favorite race memory? Beating my sister in a race
Funniest race memory? Beating my sister in a race :)
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race? Haven't really seen anything to crazy. I've almost been ran over
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Pre is a black coffee and/or pre workout, The post is some RYSE post electrolyte from Evansville Active Nutrition
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Brooks Glycerin
How many miles do you run/walk a week? I just did 12 on Sunday so currently on 15 and it's Wednesday
What are your future goals for running/walking? I think id like to accomplish the same goal of my sister which is running a half in each state! I think it really pushes me to do my best!
Favorite time of day to run? 1-2pm in the spring time
Favorite weather to run in? Sunny with a slight breeze
Music or no music? Most definitely music, preferably Posty (post Malone) or right now I’ve been listening to a party play list for bars and I love it! Lol
My names Sarah, I'm the youngest of 3. I have a brother and then a AMAZING sister named Katie that is probably the whole reason I'm in to running so much. Katie and I are always in (friendly) competition between each other. I keep saying I want more medals than her (even though might not be possible). I also have 2 pups named Charli and Cedar, and Cedar is my favorite running buddy. My handsome fiancé's name is Taylor and he pushes me daily to do my best and texts me mid-run encouragements!!
What motivates you to run/walk? Beer... Especially Busch light + Beating my sister
How many races have you participated in? So many.. Any race I can achieve a medal at is always memorable and I am currently training for my upcoming half marathon in April in Louisville.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? I think I got the most serious once I signed up for the Louisville half. So maybe like 3-4 months ago.
Favorite place to run/walk? LOVE running on the east side on Bellemeade because it's connected to a lot of other streets that are super nice to run on + they are flat
Favorite local race? The run of luck was fun!
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? I only do races within the tri-state so I’m unsure.
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? Will be Louisville in April :)
Favorite race distance? I hate to say it but I do honestly like running half's better because I can pace myself and not full on sprint the whole time
Favorite race memory? Beating my sister in a race
Funniest race memory? Beating my sister in a race :)
Craziest thing you saw at or during a race? Haven't really seen anything to crazy. I've almost been ran over
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? Pre is a black coffee and/or pre workout, The post is some RYSE post electrolyte from Evansville Active Nutrition
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Brooks Glycerin
How many miles do you run/walk a week? I just did 12 on Sunday so currently on 15 and it's Wednesday
What are your future goals for running/walking? I think id like to accomplish the same goal of my sister which is running a half in each state! I think it really pushes me to do my best!
Favorite time of day to run? 1-2pm in the spring time
Favorite weather to run in? Sunny with a slight breeze
Music or no music? Most definitely music, preferably Posty (post Malone) or right now I’ve been listening to a party play list for bars and I love it! Lol
March 2025
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Congrats to our March Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Haley Brauser! Here is more about Haley:
I am 30 years old and I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona! I moved to Evansville, Indiana in 2013 to be closer to my grandmother who passed away in 2017. I’m so grateful I spent the final years of her life with her. I am married and I have 3 beautiful children God has blessed us with! They are my heart and soul and my purpose for everything I do! I have an 11 month old son, a 5 year old daughter, and a 3 year old daughter. I went to nursing school at UE and I work full time as a labor and delivery nurse at the Women’s Hospital and I truly have the BEST JOB EVER!! I’ve been employed with Deaconess for almost 11 years!
What motivates you to run? I have a few motivators for why I run. The first one is of course the health benefits of running. The cardiovascular benefits to me are huge as I have a family history of heart disease. The second motivator is my children! I know that if I am exercising and taking care of myself, they will see that and start their own healthy habits when they are older. In addition to that I may live longer and be able to be there for them as long as I possibly can!!! The third reason is that I believe running helps release endorphins which helps my mood and my focus. When I have a pregnant- laboring patient at work, I am their “right hand man.” That means they are counting on me to help them and encourage them and make sure they have the best labor and delivery experience possible. I am coaching them and helping them on one of the most important, challenging, rewarding, and life changing days of their lives. I have to be focused, energized, and of course HAPPY while I do that! Running helps me achieve my goals and makes me a better nurse!! I want to be the best nurse I can possibly be for my patients.
How many races have you participated in? I ran the very first ever “Freakin’ frozen race” 5 years ago! My most recent runs are the Evansville half marathon, Santa run, frightening 4 miller, bright lights 5k, the freaking frozen race and the freakin freezing race!
What age did you start running? I didn’t start running competitively until this year. I’ve ran races but never tried to “win” or compete with anyone!! I won my first ever “first place for age group pin” this year and it has been the highlight of my year LOL! I never win 1st place in anything and I’ve won 2 so far this year! WHOOHOO! To be 30 years old freshly post-partum with 3 kids and to be 1st place in anything is a win in my book!
Favorite place to run? My favorite place to run is either at the gym (because they have daycare and my kids are so well taken care of by those gym daycare girls!) or at Deaconess Sports Park!
Favorite Local Race? My favorite local race is ALL OF THEM. I plan to run as many as possible when I am off work!!
Favorite Race outside the area? The only other race I have ran outside of the Tri-State is the Indy Half marathon which was pretty sweet minus the rainy weather!!
Favorite Race Distance? My favorite racing distance is honestly half marathons because I’ve never felt so accomplished!
Favorite Race Memory? My favorite race memory is being cheered on by all the Evansville police officers that I know!!
Funniest Race Memory? I really wanted to run the freakin freezing race since I had just recently ran the freaking frozen race… But I was working that day… Luckily my coworkers covered for me and I clocked out and I was able to come to the race, run it, win first place for my age group, and return to work… My coworkers were laughing that I have that much energy to work a 12 hour shift, go run a race, and come back to work like nothing happened LOL!
Favorite Running Shoes? My favorite brand of running shoe is Brooks! They’ve never let me down!
How many miles do you run a week? How many miles I run a week depends on how busy my work week is or if my kids or sick or not! I don’t like to leave them if they are sick. But I have a goal of about 10+ a week to start!
What are your future goals? My future DREAMS of running are to be first place at a race; not just first place for my age group!! My future goals of running are to continue to become a faster runner and motivate other people to also take care of their health too. If I can do it, you can do it too!
Favorite time to run? My favorite time of day to run is early early morning or late at night after the kids go to sleep!
Favorite Weather to run in? Believe it or not I like to run in colder weather or in the spring! I do not like running outdoors in the summer!
Music or No? I ABSOLUTELY have to run with music!!
I am 30 years old and I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona! I moved to Evansville, Indiana in 2013 to be closer to my grandmother who passed away in 2017. I’m so grateful I spent the final years of her life with her. I am married and I have 3 beautiful children God has blessed us with! They are my heart and soul and my purpose for everything I do! I have an 11 month old son, a 5 year old daughter, and a 3 year old daughter. I went to nursing school at UE and I work full time as a labor and delivery nurse at the Women’s Hospital and I truly have the BEST JOB EVER!! I’ve been employed with Deaconess for almost 11 years!
What motivates you to run? I have a few motivators for why I run. The first one is of course the health benefits of running. The cardiovascular benefits to me are huge as I have a family history of heart disease. The second motivator is my children! I know that if I am exercising and taking care of myself, they will see that and start their own healthy habits when they are older. In addition to that I may live longer and be able to be there for them as long as I possibly can!!! The third reason is that I believe running helps release endorphins which helps my mood and my focus. When I have a pregnant- laboring patient at work, I am their “right hand man.” That means they are counting on me to help them and encourage them and make sure they have the best labor and delivery experience possible. I am coaching them and helping them on one of the most important, challenging, rewarding, and life changing days of their lives. I have to be focused, energized, and of course HAPPY while I do that! Running helps me achieve my goals and makes me a better nurse!! I want to be the best nurse I can possibly be for my patients.
How many races have you participated in? I ran the very first ever “Freakin’ frozen race” 5 years ago! My most recent runs are the Evansville half marathon, Santa run, frightening 4 miller, bright lights 5k, the freaking frozen race and the freakin freezing race!
What age did you start running? I didn’t start running competitively until this year. I’ve ran races but never tried to “win” or compete with anyone!! I won my first ever “first place for age group pin” this year and it has been the highlight of my year LOL! I never win 1st place in anything and I’ve won 2 so far this year! WHOOHOO! To be 30 years old freshly post-partum with 3 kids and to be 1st place in anything is a win in my book!
Favorite place to run? My favorite place to run is either at the gym (because they have daycare and my kids are so well taken care of by those gym daycare girls!) or at Deaconess Sports Park!
Favorite Local Race? My favorite local race is ALL OF THEM. I plan to run as many as possible when I am off work!!
Favorite Race outside the area? The only other race I have ran outside of the Tri-State is the Indy Half marathon which was pretty sweet minus the rainy weather!!
Favorite Race Distance? My favorite racing distance is honestly half marathons because I’ve never felt so accomplished!
Favorite Race Memory? My favorite race memory is being cheered on by all the Evansville police officers that I know!!
Funniest Race Memory? I really wanted to run the freakin freezing race since I had just recently ran the freaking frozen race… But I was working that day… Luckily my coworkers covered for me and I clocked out and I was able to come to the race, run it, win first place for my age group, and return to work… My coworkers were laughing that I have that much energy to work a 12 hour shift, go run a race, and come back to work like nothing happened LOL!
Favorite Running Shoes? My favorite brand of running shoe is Brooks! They’ve never let me down!
How many miles do you run a week? How many miles I run a week depends on how busy my work week is or if my kids or sick or not! I don’t like to leave them if they are sick. But I have a goal of about 10+ a week to start!
What are your future goals? My future DREAMS of running are to be first place at a race; not just first place for my age group!! My future goals of running are to continue to become a faster runner and motivate other people to also take care of their health too. If I can do it, you can do it too!
Favorite time to run? My favorite time of day to run is early early morning or late at night after the kids go to sleep!
Favorite Weather to run in? Believe it or not I like to run in colder weather or in the spring! I do not like running outdoors in the summer!
Music or No? I ABSOLUTELY have to run with music!!
February 2025
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Congrats to our February Ultimate Fit Runner of the Month, Paisley S.! Here is more about Paisley:
My name is Paisley, I’m a 7th grader @ Webster County Middle School. I am a member of the cross country, track, & basketball team. I am the youngest & have 3 older siblings.
What motivates you to run/walk?
What motivates me the most is continually wanting to work on being the best I can be. My parents, coaches, and friends push me to stretch my limits to see my potential.
How many races have you participated in? Over 50 counting school meets and local tri state runs.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? 10
Favorite local race? Freakin freezin/Freakin Frozen race & my local Turkey Trot.
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? Run 4 the Gold in Elizabethtown, KY.
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? Lexington, KY or Nashville, TN
Favorite race distance? 5k
Favorite race memory? It would definitely have to be at the KHSAA State XC meet finishing the race with a PR, 21:20 &
breaking my school’s 7th grade 5k record.
Funniest race memory? The traveling beef stick @ our state XC meet.
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink?
My favorite pre-race is either peanut butter crackers, beef jerky, or a stinger. My favorite post- race meal is sea salt & vinegar pistachios.
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Hoka & On
How many miles do you run/walk a week? 15-30 miles a week depending on what season of running I’m in. Right now I am doing indoor track so we do more speed work than distance so my mileage may be lower.
What are your future goals for running/walking? My future goal for the upcoming XC season is getting in 20’s.
Favorite weather to run in? Upper 50s/ lower 60s
My name is Paisley, I’m a 7th grader @ Webster County Middle School. I am a member of the cross country, track, & basketball team. I am the youngest & have 3 older siblings.
What motivates you to run/walk?
What motivates me the most is continually wanting to work on being the best I can be. My parents, coaches, and friends push me to stretch my limits to see my potential.
How many races have you participated in? Over 50 counting school meets and local tri state runs.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? 10
Favorite local race? Freakin freezin/Freakin Frozen race & my local Turkey Trot.
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? Run 4 the Gold in Elizabethtown, KY.
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? Lexington, KY or Nashville, TN
Favorite race distance? 5k
Favorite race memory? It would definitely have to be at the KHSAA State XC meet finishing the race with a PR, 21:20 &
breaking my school’s 7th grade 5k record.
Funniest race memory? The traveling beef stick @ our state XC meet.
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink?
My favorite pre-race is either peanut butter crackers, beef jerky, or a stinger. My favorite post- race meal is sea salt & vinegar pistachios.
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? Hoka & On
How many miles do you run/walk a week? 15-30 miles a week depending on what season of running I’m in. Right now I am doing indoor track so we do more speed work than distance so my mileage may be lower.
What are your future goals for running/walking? My future goal for the upcoming XC season is getting in 20’s.
Favorite weather to run in? Upper 50s/ lower 60s
January 2025
Congrats to Braelyn B. for being named the January 2025 Runner of the Month! Here is more about Braelyn:
My name is Braelyn, I am a freshman at North Posey High School. I am a member of the Cross country and Tennis team. I'm 1 of 4 kids. I also have two 2 dogs. I am involved in Student Council outside of school.
What motivates you to run/walk? What motivates me the most is constantly wanting to be better. Seeing others achieve exciting things makes me want to do the same.
How many races have you participated in? Between Cross Country races and local events, I’ve done around 50.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? Around 11 is when I really knew I wanted to run competitively, but my parents always made me do kid fun runs when I was little!
Favorite place to run/walk? Along the beach in Destin!
Favorite local race? Jingle all the 5ks.
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? Zionsville Half Marathon
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? Zionsville
Favorite race distance? I like both 5k and 10k.
Favorite race memory? My favorite race memory has to be when I got a Pr at Sectionals.
Funniest race memory? It definitely has to be one of my teammates eating a cricket off the ground and getting a pr!
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? My favorite pre-meal is an English muffin with peanut butter and my favorite post meal is either Crisp and Green or a Crumble cookie.
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? My favorite brand is Hoka.
How many miles do you run/walk a week? I aim for 25-30 miles of running a weak.
What are your future goals for running/walking? My future goal is to be able to run a 5k around 22 minutes and to run a full marathon.
Favorite time of day to run? Early Mornings
Favorite weather to run in? I like it around 50 degrees so not to hot or cold.
Music or no music? Music all the way!!
My name is Braelyn, I am a freshman at North Posey High School. I am a member of the Cross country and Tennis team. I'm 1 of 4 kids. I also have two 2 dogs. I am involved in Student Council outside of school.
What motivates you to run/walk? What motivates me the most is constantly wanting to be better. Seeing others achieve exciting things makes me want to do the same.
How many races have you participated in? Between Cross Country races and local events, I’ve done around 50.
What age did you start running/walking for fun & competitively? Around 11 is when I really knew I wanted to run competitively, but my parents always made me do kid fun runs when I was little!
Favorite place to run/walk? Along the beach in Destin!
Favorite local race? Jingle all the 5ks.
Favorite race outside of the Tri-State? Zionsville Half Marathon
Farthest you have traveled to do a race? Zionsville
Favorite race distance? I like both 5k and 10k.
Favorite race memory? My favorite race memory has to be when I got a Pr at Sectionals.
Funniest race memory? It definitely has to be one of my teammates eating a cricket off the ground and getting a pr!
Favorite pre & post-race meal/drink? My favorite pre-meal is an English muffin with peanut butter and my favorite post meal is either Crisp and Green or a Crumble cookie.
What is your favorite brand of running shoe? My favorite brand is Hoka.
How many miles do you run/walk a week? I aim for 25-30 miles of running a weak.
What are your future goals for running/walking? My future goal is to be able to run a 5k around 22 minutes and to run a full marathon.
Favorite time of day to run? Early Mornings
Favorite weather to run in? I like it around 50 degrees so not to hot or cold.
Music or no music? Music all the way!!