Melissa Wood - Ambassador Team Manager

Running is my opportunity to spend time outside, to get some fresh air, enjoy the sunshine, and to breathe! I love running races and meeting other runners. In recent years I’ve “fallen off” of my running habit as I’ve been spending a lot of time in the gym. For the 2025-2026 season I hope to get back out to a few more races (either running or volunteering), and to hit up a few run clubs in the Metro area!

Favorite race distance: Historically, the half marathon, but I’m working to enjoy the shorter distances more since I’m not putting in as many training miles as I once did!

Spot me at these races: Colfax 2026, of course… and before that, it’s all TBD!

Playing through my headphones: Might be an audio book, may be a super-random playlist, could be one of the Two Friends Big Bootie Mixes… or sometimes <<gasp>> I might go sans-headphones (I blame my many years of pacing races for this)!!

On my plate for a post-race meal: I’m all over the place with what I crave, but 9 times out of 10 it ends up being a buffalo burger with pepperjack cheese and avocado…and of course a HUGE side of fries! Or tacos. I will say YES to tacos 100% of the time!!!

My special race-day ritual: First I hope beyond hopes that I wake up on time & get my bum outta the door timely (there have been more than a handful of races that I’ve run straight from the car to cross the start line)! But if I do it all right, the day starts by snagging some munchies for breakfast, then it’s time to don the running gear, grab the headphones, and get to the race where I get to see FRIENDS!! And, no matter how the morning goes, food with friends and a solid nap post-race!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Pick the right race for YOU – there are so many options for distances, so consider what you want out of race day (speed, sights, fun, etc.) and take a gander at what each race has to offer. Then sign up for the race that speaks to you & put in the training miles. And, no matter how your race rolls out on race day, find a way to enjoy the party – both on course and at the park after you’ve finished and earned that medal!!!

Allison Riley

I started running 10 years ago and I stick with it because it’s been a source of empowerment for difficult periods of my life. When everything feels chaotic, running is one thing I know I can control. I cherish the inner peace that I gain as a result. I also work behind the scenes in the fitness industry, so my life in general centers around health and wellness.

Favorite race distance: Half marathon

Spot me at these races: Diplo’s Run Club (for the party), BOLDERBoulder 10k, Honolulu Half Marathon, Disneyland Half Marathon, and of course Colfax Half Marathon

On my plate for a post-race meal: A 12″ spicy club from Cheba Hut and a giant chocolate chip cookie

My special race-day ritual: Scream-singing Taylor Swift songs on my drive to the race

Advice for future Colfax race participants: “It’s not that deep” as the kids say. Colfax races are about sharing positive energy and celebrating each other, that’s just what we do in Denver. Don’t be a stranger to anyone on race day!

Anthony Clark

A North Jersey guy, by way of D.C. There’s something special about the Colorado outdoors—especially the running community—that has bitten me. Living in this state for 13 years, nothing compares to watching my fellow runners engage in such a fun and healthy activity. As an aviation professional with a busy schedule, I make sure my runs take the front seat at the start of the day.

Favorite Race Distance: Half Marathon

Spot Me at These Races:

2025 Boulderthon
2026 San Francisco Marathon
2026 Denver Colfax MarathonPost-Race Meal: French fries, Modelo, and fruit

Race Day Ritual: Rest the day before, hydrate, stretch, make sure my running gear is ready, and prepare my playlist.

Advice for Future Colfax Racers: Just show up to the start line and run, walk, or twerk your way to the end. Enjoy the experience your way—crossing the finish line is what truly matters.

Ashley Olivas

I started running in June 2021 and have enjoyed competing in races. Running is a passion of mine. I discovered a love for running later in life. What started as a way to challenge myself, transformed into a journey of self discovery.

Favorite race distance: Half marathon

Spot me at these races: The Brunch Run 5k, Bubble Run 5k, Colorado Avalanche 5k, HRCA St Patrick’s Day 5k, Denver Rocks Run 10k, Golden Gallop 10k, Time Travel 10k, Mountain Ridge Trail Race Half Marathon, Labor Day Half Marathon and Denver Colfax Marathon

On my plate for a post race meal: A burger with French fries or pizza.

My special race-day ritual: I stretch to get myself prepared and chat with fellow runners before the race.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Use the mile markers as a chance to check in with yourself. It’s best to break the race up into sections to improve motivation and maintain your pace. Focus on crossing the finish line.

Baylie Thurber

Hi, I’m Baylie and I am so excited to be part of the Colfax ambassador team for my second year. I didn’t start running until I was in my late 20’s, but now I can’t imagine my life without it. I am a “party pace” back of the pack runner, which means that I’m there for a good time AND a long time. I love sharing this sport with others and encouraging them through their own journeys.

Favorite race distance: My favorite distance is the half marathon distance. Being a “party pace” runner means that I get to enjoy my time on the race course for longer than faster runners and with a half marathon this means that I get to enjoy my favorite post-race meal sooner! Having said that, I’ve completed 3 marathons and have a 4th one this fall.

Spot me at these races: Right now my only upcoming race is the Berlin marathon on September 21st, 2025, but I will most definitely be doing one of the Colfax races in the spring as well!

On my plate for a post-race meal: I usually want either Mexican food with lots of chips and queso or a hamburger with fries. And either way, the meal must also include a big glass of Diet Coke!

My race day outfit must haves: I love to run in a sparkly running skirt and a fun hat and my favorite thing is when I can coordinate my sparkly skirt to match the theme or location I’m running in. For the NYC marathon, I found a sparkly skirt that had the statue of liberty, bagels, pizza and other NYC icons on it!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: You can do this! 8 years ago I would never have dreamed that I would be training for my 4th marathon and yet here I am! It sounds cliche, but the hardest part really is deciding to get started. The running community is so welcoming to runners of all experience levels and paces so don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek out support, we’re so glad you’re here!

Braelyn Henderson

I grew up in Snoqualmie, Washington. Moved to Denver last July to obtain my Master’s degree and enjoy more sunshine! I love all things recreational and outdoor related but especially running long distance. My journey started about a decade ago in undergrad where I slowly worked my way from 1 mile to 2 to 3, etc. last year was my first Marathon but I have done 15 halves, and several Spartans and tough Mudder races.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon and marathon

Spot me at these races: Rock n roll series races, Seattle Marathon, Colfax Marathon and one day the Boston Marathon!

On my plate for a post-race meal: An eggs benedict with avocado and without the hollandaise sauce, chicken sausage on the side, and a slice of cheesecake

My special race-day ritual: Drinking some sort of electrolytes, getting jazzed with some EDM tunes, eat a. bagel with cream cheese, a banana, protein bar (if needed) and an energy gel right before the race begins, making sure to have a gel every 3-5 miles as needed

Advice for future Colfax race participants: I am a huge advocate for just finishing the race! If you want to compete or finish a certain time, I encourage it but if it is your first time running, just have fun, do your best, and work on getting to the finish line however that is for you. Remember why you started, what you are racing for and what motivates you.

Brentlee Cass

I run to keep in shape so I can eat/drink what I want and to spend time with my wife, friends, and family. Since then, I’ve learned that it can take you to some pretty incredible places and help you meet some pretty incredible people. On any given day you will find me trying to convince any random person that no matter what they think they are, in fact, a runner.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: Denver Turkey Trot, RunDenver Series (and More to come!)

On my plate for a post-race meal: Give me a beer and an ice cream and l’m a happy camper

My special race-day ritual: Avocado toast, a strong cup of coffee, and some pre-race glute warm ups, then I’m ready to rock!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Just. Get. Out. There. Don’t stress about the little stuff and just enjoy every day you’re healthy and able to hit the road! Also don’t forget to enjoy the process, race day is just the victory lap!

Brian Jordan

I am a book junkie that loves reading a number of different genres including health and fitness. There is always something new to learn about how to take care of your body, physically and mentally. I also love travelling with my family, and running the original marathon route in Greece is near the top of my bucket list.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Colorado Springs Half Marathon, Steamboat Half Marathon, Broncos 7k, Shamrock Stampede

On my plate for a post-race meal: My favorite is BBQ with various smoked meats, mac & cheese, and okra. And no post-race celebration is complete without a beer!

My special race-day ritual: I typically eat breakfast in the car on the way to the race. I like to get to races early so I can get my bearings, get my music cued up, and take my time stretching and getting mentally ready to go without feeling rushed.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Just enjoy the experience; the miles go faster than you think! Also, be sure to download the RaceJoy app and encourage your supporters to do the same! Receiving words of encouragement and even laughter as you run is a real energy boost.

Carla Garcia

Hi! I’m Carla—a chai‑fueled runner who smiles through the miles.

Colfax is where I became a marathoner back in 2023. Now I’m back for my second year as an Ambassador—this time bringing the fire from Mexico and adding a little Broadway flair to every course.

My favorite distance is the half marathon—just the right length, challenging, and fun.

This season, you’ll find me at the Leaf Peepers Half in Vermont on October 5th and the Night Run & Rock La Paz Half Marathon in Baja California Sur on October 25th.

Follow along for chai‑fueled adventures, Broadway‑backed runs, and plenty of race‑day magic.

Carol Cho

I am a swimmer-turned-runner AKA a fish out of water. I swam competitively growing up but picked up running during COVID. I still like to incorporate swimming into my training, especially if I get to swim outside. You can find me paddleboarding, hanging with my doggo Finn, or embroidering. I am a child at heart (peep my race day glitter) and hope to be a pediatrician in the future.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon, though I’m looking to try some longer races. You might catch me running the Colfax Marathon this year(?)

Spot me at these races: Colfax Marathon/Half Marathon (TBD), Honolulu Half

On my plate for a post-race meal: Chocolate chip pancakes with strawberries, scrambled eggs, cheesy hash browns, and a massive cup of coffee.

My special race-day ritual: Eat a chocolate chip bagel (do we spot a theme here?), throw on some glitter, finalize the playlist, and make new friends in the village!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Just have fun! Enjoy the zoo views, meet some cool people, high-five some firefighters, and look for some goofy signs. Making it to the starting line is arguably the hardest part – now go show off all the hard work you’ve put in!

Christian Castillo

I’m Christian Castillo, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran. I am finishing my degree in Sports Management and enjoy spending time running, spending time with my wife and two dogs Jake and Summer.

Favorite race distance: The marathon

Spot me at these races: Boulderthon Marathon and supporting my wife at the Space Coast 1/2 Marathon!

On my plate for a post-race meal: My go-to meal after a long race is any bacon cheeseburger with French fries and Coke.

My special race-day ritual: Wake up, eat something small (probably a honey waffle), drink some water, make my way to the race, stretch, listen to music, and start the race!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Everyone, including world-class athletes, began training with one run. You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.

Corey Ganier

I’m a full-time dad, entrepreneur, and a long distance runner who used running to turn my life around physically, mentally, and spiritually. I believe in pushing boundaries, staying consistent, and showing up with heart. When I’m not running trails or chasing PRs, I’m probably meal prepping, cold plunging, or plotting my next business move.

Favorite race distance: The marathon but if the vibe’s right, I’ll take it to the ultramarathon level.

Spot me at these races: Tough Mudder, Honolulu Marathon, Colfax (of course), and anywhere with elevation and good views.

On my plate for a post-race meal: pizza and a peanut butter-chocolate protein shake.

My special race-day ritual: I wake up early, question my choices, then realize why I’m doing it, eat my carb loaded oatmeal bowl, and stretch it out at the starting line!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Run your race, whatever pace, whatever goal. The finish line is only part of the reward. Getting there is where the real growth happens.

Courtney Lawson

I’m a Pre-K teacher, a mother, and a final-year chaplaincy student pursuing my Master’s in Spiritual Care. This last year’s race I lost over 100lbs in my training for the Colfax 5k and Half Marathon. My journey has been about perseverance, purpose, and pouring into others. I have found that running helps strengthen my body for the work I’m called to do.

Favorite Race Distance:
The half marathon holds a special place in my heart. It’s long enough to challenge me but short enough to leave room for a joyful sprint to the finish!

Spot Me at These Races:
MLK Freedom Race and BoulderthonPost-Race Plate:
After crossing the finish line, I treat myself to Tropical Smoothie and sushi.

My Race-Day Routine:
I stretch, hydrate, grab a protein bar, and pack my essentials: bananas, electrolytes and gummies as a backup. I also grab my music say a prayer and head to the race.

Advice for Future Colfax Participants:
Have fun! You trained for this moment, so be present and take it all in.

D'Onna Manning

Originally from Mississippi, now based in Colorado. I’m a runner who loves a good challenge — whether it’s running, strength training, or racing for fun with friends. I show up with energy, encouragement, and a full face of makeup because why not feel strong and cute?

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: Boulderthon and the Joshua Tree Half Marathon — catch me at local races & Hyrox competitions too!

On my plate for a post-race meal: A big, juicy burger and an ice-cold Coke. Nothing hits better.

My special race-day ritual: Protein coffee first thing, oatmeal and toast, a little makeup, good music, and lots of love for my fur babies before heading out the door.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Enjoy it. Soak up the energy, high five ALL strangers, and just enjoy every mile — it’s your race, your pace. It does not matter what anyone else is doing, this day is about YOU!

Emily Hatch

Originally from Boston, MA, I’ve called Denver home for 5 years and continue to make the trade for altitude in place of humidity with no regrets. As a school counselor and field hockey coach, much of my day is spent using context clues to figure out what the kids are saying, or trying to brush off their weirdly specific (but honestly hilarious) insults. I train so that I can continue to expand the people I get to meet and places I can explore!

Favorite race distance: The half marathon- long enough to feel excited about a serious training block, but short enough I can really shoot my shot on it come race day

Spot me at these races: Canyonlands Half Marathon, Dallas BMW race weekend, & more to come after just a bit more peer pressure 🙂

On my plate for a post-race meal: Whatever it is, it comes with a 3 beverage minimum- iced water, vanilla mocha iced latte, and an ice cold beveragino

My special race-day ritual: Half a beer the night before, no matter what we’re running!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Make friends along the way- ask if you can take the picture for the friend group doing a selfie at the start line, start up a conversation with the random runner you’ve latched onto in your mind to get up the hill, and congratulate the one who stuck to your heels on your final kick. The people are the best part of all of this.

Gabby Armendariz

What’s up yall! I’m Gabby! Part time runner, full time over-thinker 🙂 I retook running a year ago and im so glad I chose Latinos Run Denver, el mejor run club ever!
I love spending time with my family, bike riding with the kiddos and of course running. Im all about growth – in fitness, in mindset and in life!! Lets do big things and have fun while we’re at it!

Favorite race distance: 10K

Spot me at these races: Boulderthon – Half Marathon Baby!

On my plate for a post-race meal: A torta al pastor (mouth is currently watering) with a large Horchata. Potentially a Pizza with Jalapenos and Pepperoni and cant forget the french fries!

My special race-day ritual: Eat a slice of bread with PB and banana, drink my pre-workout and sit on the couch for a minutes to thank my body for what it’s about to do.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: HAVE FUN! You trained hard for this. You made it this far. Believe in yourself and no matter the outcome always be proud! Show up, get it done. You got this. Finish strong!

Jen Hickman

I am a Colorado native that started running cross country in middle school because my friends joined. I sucked and did not enjoy it. Now, running is an integral part of my life. In 2023, I became a coach to give back to the running community. Coaches secret- I get to experience the joy and excitement of training and races without having to do all the running! I have run different race versions of the Colfax Marathon including one of the first relays when it started in Aurora and ended in Lakewood.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: Not signed up for anything currently. I am sure that will change soon!

On my plate for a post-race meal: A juicy, spicy burger with sweet potato fries. My favorite post race meal was a lobster pasta in Boston. It’s a little hard to find good lobster in CO…

My special race-day ritual: PB and honey on sourdough for breakfast and then jamming to my race day playlist to pump myself up!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: There are so many cool things to see along the course! Make sure to enjoy them! Especially, the zoo animals. I am a zookeeper there so I may be a little biased.

Jordan Santo

Kaysey Auday

I am originally from Connecticut and have lived in Denver for over 20 years. I am a middle school Spanish teacher. I have trained for multiple half and full marathons, among other races. Running brings so much joy into my life and I have made most of my life long friendships through running and racing. I have run the Colfax marathon event 6 times including the full, half, 10 miler, public school relay division (3 times).

Favorite race distance: Half marathon

🙂 Second Favorite race distance: Full marathon

Spot me at these upcoming races: Equinox half, Eugene full

On my plate for a post-race meal: Celebrate!!! Then nachos and cold beverages!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: You made it to the start! That’s half the journey. Then focus on each leg of the marathon so you can settle in, enjoy the city and all the crowd support Denver brings!

Kenderick Lawson

I’m a PE teacher, dad, and runner who has lost over 185 pounds and gained a passion for helping others thrive through movement. My health journey has reshaped how I live, teach, and parent. Training for my first marathon this upcoming year, I’m proud to join the Colfax Ambassador Team as I continue turning progress into purpose.

Favorite race distance: Half marathon for now. I’m training for my first full in 2026 and ready to go the distance.

Spot me at these races: MLK Freedom Run in Denver and Aurora, St. Paddy’s Day Lucky Run in Denver and Aurora, and any local race where community shows up strong.

On my plate for a post-race meal: A Buddha roll from my favorite local sushi bar. Fresh, clean, and full of flavor. Nothing hits better after crossing the finish line than that perfect roll and a quiet moment of satisfaction.

My special race day ritual: Stretch, hydrate, cue up my running playlist, and remind myself. You didn’t come this far just to come this far.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Run your race, not someone else’s. Whether you walk, jog, or sprint, showing up with intention makes you unstoppable.

Makala Banas

Hi! I’m Makala – a mom, teacher, and runner living in Colorado Springs, and thrilled to be back as an Ambassador for another year! I started my running journey later in life and have loved the places it’s taken me, the people I’ve met, and the friendships I’ve gained!

Favorite race distance: Probably the Half Marathon, although I do love a good 5k!

Spot me at these races: My race calendar is still TBD at the moment, but I’ll definitely be running the 2026 Colfax Half!

On my plate for a post-race meal: This is always totally mood / location dependent, but I love a good burger, fries, and a beer!

My special race-day ritual: I honestly don’t really have a special race-day ritual. I try to get everything laid out and ready the night before so I can just wake up and go without having to think too much!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Nothing new on race day! Have fun and take in every mile – this is your victory lap from all of your hard work getting the training done! Talk to runners around you and make new friends!

Maureen Harvey

I started running years ago for my sanity and because it made me feel good. For years, I ran solo until I started going to run clubs and now my running friends have become my running family.

I’m so excited to back as a Colfax ambassador. I met and adopted my best little running buddy, Colfax after running the Colfax 10 miler in 2013. He’s getting older, but he still loves the Colfax 5k and the running community too!

Favorite Race Distance: Half marathon/ 10 mile

Spot me at these races: Chicago Marathon, Hot Chocolate 15k, Big Bear Half, Colfax Urban 10

On my plate for a post-race meal: Cheeseburger, fries, beer

My special race day ritual: Hit the snooze button, coffee with breakfast, feed and walk my dog, Colfax

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Run with your heart and be proud of yourself for getting out there.

Rosie Entress

I’m Rosie, a weekend warrior who thrives on fresh air, good vibes, and trying new things that push my limits—especially when it involves a finish line!

Favorite race distance: 10K

Spot me at these races: COEUR Sprint Triathlon, Oktoberfest Sprint Triathlon, Broncos 7K, Rock ‘n’ Roll Vegas 10K

On my plate for a post-race meal: Tacos, chips with guacamole, and a margarita!

My special race-day ritual: Wake up early, rock a fun hairstyle (glitter is non-negotiable), and triple-check that I packed my Nerds Clusters—almost as essential as the glitter!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Prepare to have a blast! The race-day energy is electric, the signs are hilarious, and the community support is unbeatable. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other and enjoy the journey!

Ryan Dougherty

I started running in 2024 and quickly fell in love with it. It’s a great way to spend time outside and keep my body moving. When I’m not running, I also love to ski and hike. Basically if I am outside, I am happy. I do most of my runs on the road, but try to get into the mountains at least once a week for a trail run. I have a Red Labrador puppy that I’m trying to turn into my running and hiking partner!

Catch me at these races: Pumpkin Pie 5k, All-Out Fa La La half marathon, Colfax full marathon, and maybe dabble into the Ultra scene in summer 2026

Go-to Post Run Meal: You will probably find me in line at Chipotle before I even stop my watch. Followed up with a pint of Halo Top ice cream of course.

Advice for Colfax Runners: Race day is a celebration of your hard months of training. Don’t take it too seriously, and enjoy the run! Don’t go out too fast, and remember to fuel early and often. Make sure you’re smiling, or you’re doing it wrong.

Sagen Spesock

I am a born and raised Colorado native, who fell in love with running early in life. As with many people, life got busy for me – especially in college – so I took a step back from running. The past couple of years I have rediscovered my passion for running again, and I am now challenging myself to new races and new distances!

Favorite race distance: Lately, I have been enjoying running 10Ks and do enjoy the occasional 5K. I recently ran my first half marathon this year (at Colfax!), so I am planning on running more of those, as well as training for my first marathon!

Spot me at these races: Flaming Foliage Relay, Duke City Marathon (Albuquerque, NM), Colfax 2026

On my plate for a post-race meal: I will devour multiples slices of pizza after a race – one time even a whole pizza! I also really enjoy a bowl from CAVA.

My special race-day ritual: I make sure to enjoy a light breakfast, snuggle a bit with my cat, and lay out all of my race gear before heading out. Post-race includes a huge lunch with friends, a nice hot shower, and a nap.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: First and foremost – HAVE FUN. Whether you’re trying to challenge yourself with a new distance, go for an PR, or beat a time, always make sure to enjoy yourself and have a good time.

Also choose a race distance that is comfortable for you. Colfax has many different races to choose from, so knowing what distance you want to run helps with your training plan.

Spencer Ellis

Hi my name is Spencer. I’m based in Colorado and thrilled to be an Ambassador for the Colfax Marathon 2026! My first year running with Colfax was 2025 in preparation for the World Transplant Games in Germany. I found great community and personal challenge in the Colfax and cannot wait to run in 2026 for the 20th anniversary. My goals are to spread excitement for the Colfax Marathon while demonstrating all can be competitive and stay healthy through running.

Favorite race distance: 10k—trail preferred.

Spot me at these races: The Colfax Marathon 2026 (Denver), The World Transplant Games 2025 (Dresden), Transplant Games of America 2026 (Denver), Donor Dash, and the Colorado Cold Rush 2025 (Colorado Springs).

On my plate for a post-race meal: Likely involves bread, but depends on the race, location, season, and mood. Could be a breakfast burrito, chicken and rice, salad, pupusa, or even a beer

special race-day ritual: A good night’s rest, plenty of stretching, and sure to empty my stomach and clear my mind.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Train hard, challenge yourself, and have a ton of fun enjoying Denver, Colorado!

Stephanie McAvoy

I am a veterinarian that lives in Denver, CO! While I have been running my whole life, re-learning how to run after being paralyzed from the waist down brought an entirely new meaning to the sport. Just when I thought running couldn’t get more personal, I got a half-golden, half-yellow lab puppy. My favorite thing is that we both do poorly in the heat, AKA we both LOVE to go running in the cold and snow together! Running around City Park or trail running in the mountains are two of our favorite activities (minus swimming of course)!

Taylor Roeder

I am new to Colorado and consider myself a slower runner. When I’m not training, you can find me teaching dance at a local studio, coaching high school poms or at my marketing day job. To relax, I love to lay by the pool with my wife or by the fireplace with my beautiful cats.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Boulderthon Half

On my plate for a post-race meal: Impossible burger, sweet potato fries and an ice cold beer

My special race-day ritual: I love to braid my hair with little bows and cover my body in glitter!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: The training is truly the hardest part. If you’ve made it to race day, the race is your victory lap. Treat the race like a celebration of all the hard work you’ve done!

Tony Rush

I love staying active – it’s a passion of mine and so important to me. Running, biking, softball, volleyball – you can catch me playing pretty much any sport. Working in finance and as a naval reserve officer, I look forward to my run workouts. They’re my “me time,” my decompression time. Look for me (usually in bright colors) running and biking all around Lakewood and the surrounding area with my dog Riptide, who joins me on some runs (and even bike rides in his backpack). If you see me, say hi!

Favorite race distance: The marathon

Spot me at these races: Marine Corps Marathon (Arlington/DC) in October and the NYC Marathon in November

On my plate for a post-race meal: Ice cream and a beer!

My special race-day ritual: Bagel with peanut butter, banana, and at least two cups of coffee

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Just have fun! Experience the vibrant community that comes out to support you! You’ve put so much time and effort into training, it’s now time to enjoy the magic of race weekend and be proud of all you’ve done to get here! Live in the moment!

Tori Laires

Hi! My name is Tori and I live in the Wash Park/Cheesman park area in Denver! Being a former collegiate soccer player, I’ve been running for as long as I can remember and recently got into racing again after running the Colfax Half Marathon in 2024! You can find me at run clubs, TruFusion for strength or yoga classes, in the mountains, walking my dog at Cheesman/Wash Park, or drinking excessive amounts of coffee at coffee shops!

Favorite Race Distance: I’d say the marathon is my favorite distance so far throughout this running journey!

Spot me at these races: Erie Half Marathon (Aug 17th), Lisbon Marathon (Oct 25) and occasionally spectating the local races here in Denver!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Uber Eats delivery from Sweetgreen!

My special race day ritual: Sending family group chat a text message at start line 🙂

Advice for Future Colfax Participants: Race your own race, read all of the signs if you need a good laugh, think about how fun the post-race party will be if you need motivation to get to that finish line!

Tori Serna

Howdy. My name is Tori (she/her) and I’m a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist from Austin, TX. I have a 2 year old American Bully named Cedric that I love hiking and going on runs. In my free time I’m either eating good food, listening to great music and/or spending time with my loved ones. Favorite post race meal is pasta and/or pizza.

I’ve always been a very active person, but for the last year, I’ve been focussing on running to be able to reach my goal of finishing a Marathon in 2026. My love for running has grown over the years because it gives me a time to clear my mind while challenging myself, both physically and mentally. Favorite genre to listen to during a long-run is old school r&b and hip-hop. A little bit of Jodeci, SWV, Jagged Edge, etc…

Being an old sneaker head, I’ve really enjoyed adding quite a few different running shoes to my closet. Some of the brands I’d never heard of before I started focusing on running so it’s been fun educating myself on all of the different benefits certain shoes have. I’ve also appreciated finding and connecting with different run clubs in the city as it’s allowed me to meet some really amazing people with similar hobbies/interests.

I’m currently documenting my running journey so feel free to follow me on IG @PopThatL5 (running content) and on TikTok @PopThatL5 (pelvic floor content). Ask any and all questions you may have.

I believe everyone should have access to running and as a Denver Colfax Marathon Ambassador, I hope to help increase representation within the sport here in Denver, CO.