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 2027, 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’m a Colorado native and I’ve been running for over 12 years now. The Colfax Marathon was my first EVER marathon – which by the way, I used to tell myself I could never do. One of the reasons I keep running is because I’m fascinated by what we can teach our bodies to accomplish! Plus when you conquer a distance you’ve never achieved before in running, it makes life’s problems in general feel more manageable. I just became a dog mom to a husky who I’m excited to run with in the winter. I work on the tech side of the fitness industry and love chatting about all the amazing gyms and studios we have here in the Denver metro area. Right now my favorite workout is Pilates – come to class with me and let’s grab a matcha latte afterwards!

Favorite race distance: Half marathon

Spot me at these races: Diplo’s Run Club, Boulderthon, Rio Grande Half Marathon (in 2027 – deferred in 2026 due to injury)

On my plate for a post-race meal: A turkey & bacon sub, sweet potato fries, chocolate chip cookie and a smoothie

My special race-day ritual: Blasting Taylor Swift songs at full volume on the drive to the race

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Don’t put pressure on yourself to be like other runners. Oh, and never say “just”. It’s never “just” a 5k, 10k, half marathon etc. If you run, you ARE a runner no matter what distance or time and you deserve just as much celebration in our community!

Braelyn Henderson

Hey there! My name is Braelyn Henderson (he/him). I am a Seattle native who started running more than ten years ago. My journey has taken me across finish lines, through mud pits, and into communities that have shaped who I am as an athlete. Running is where I challenge myself, reset, and find joy in pushing my limits.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon is the perfect distance in my opinion. It keeps me focused, steady, and excited for whatever comes next.

Spot me at these races: I have completed two marathons, fifteen half marathons, seven Tough Mudders, and two Spartan races. If there is a course with miles to cover or obstacles to conquer, I am usually there.

On my plate for a post race meal: Something warm, hearty, and perfect for celebrating the work that went into the race, such as a homemade chicken pot pie.

My special race day ritual: I start with a light breakfast about 2 hours before, a bagel, banana, yogurt and top it off with an energy gel about 10-15 minutes before the race.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Enjoy the experience and run with gratitude for the effort it took to get there. The hours of training and the commitment to show up are what truly matter. Cross the finish line proud of the work you put in.

What is next for me: I am working toward big goals. I want to complete an ultra, triathlon, or earn a spot in a world major marathon.

Brentlee Cass

I have been in love with running ever since I started almost 10 years ago now. Having a new baby in January 2026 has forced me to revisit my relationship with running, but it’s all part of the journey! This race cycle will involve running tired, running at weird times of day, and running with a stroller. Good times ahead, excited to meet you all along the way!

Favorite race distance: Half marathon

Spot me at these races: Mount Desert Island Marathon, Run Denver Series, Mile High United Way Turkey Trot, the Colfax Pancake Runs, any major marathon if I ever get picked in the lottery!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Any calories I can get my hands on!

My special race-day ritual: Avocado toast and a big coffee for breakfast. Lather up the sunscreen, and then make sure the playlist is locked and loaded as I make my way to the start line!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Don’t forget that the training is the real journey, the race is just the finish line. Visit some run clubs, run with new people, and find your motivation to just keep yourself getting out on the road. And of course, don’t forget that the ACTUAL finish line is the biggest party in Denver so you always have something ahead of you!

Brian Collison

I’m a 37-year-old husband, dad and Colorado runner. I started running at the beginning of 2025 to challenge myself but it’s become so much more, to clear my head, be present, and chase goals while balancing, running, work and family. I love sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between of the journey.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: Boulderthon half marathon, Pelican lakes turkey trot and Colfax.

On my plate for a post-race meal: An entire pizza and an NA beer.

My special race-day ritual: A quiet breakfast, some music and reminding myself I get to do this!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Don’t worry about anyone else’s pace. Show up, enjoy your race and be proud of the work it took to get to the starting line.

Charlene LePane

Favorite race distance: A marathon, my second favorite is a half marathon.

Spot me at these races: Wausau Marathon, Indianapolis Marathon, Disney Marathon, Every Woman’s Marathon, Bayshore Marathon

On my plate for a post-race meal: New York style pizza with banana peppers and a cold diet coke.

My special race-day ritual: Apple sauce, toast (sometimes with peanut butter), electrolytes with glutamine, and sometimes a shot of pickle juice.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Embrace the energy of race day, trust your training, and remember to enjoy the experience. It’s just as much about the journey as the finish line. Start at a comfortable pace, stay present, and soak in the incredible atmosphere and support along the course. You will LOVE this race!

Connor Kloss

I feel like I am constantly growing and learning through running. I realized my love for the sport after my first marathon in 2024 and have been hooked ever since. I work as a case manager and am in graduate school to be a counselor, there is so much intersection between mental health and running that I enjoy sharing with people.

Favorite race distance: The marathon

Spot me at these races: RINO 5k, Boulderthon, United Way Turkey Trot, and more!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Big slice of veggie pizza and an M&M cookie from St. Marks Coffee House

My special race-day ritual: I lay out my running clothes like it’s the first day of school. I’ll wake up very early, drink a cup of coffee, have a banana, and sit with my cats while the sun begins to rise like it’s any other morning run.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Sometimes throughout the year I will run the last half mile of the course and pretend it’s race day. Visualize the finish line and recognize how strong you feel in that moment. I found it helpful to be familair with that last little bit, so that on race day when I reach City Park, I know I’ve run that raod before. I know how it feels, I know where I’m going, and I know that I can make it to the end because I’ve done it before.

Corey Ganier

I’m a proud father, entrepreneur, insure-tech leader, Founder of LAV Cleaning Services, a local cleaning company I’ve been building from the ground up. Between growing businesses, running around with my kiddos and hitting the trails — life stays pretty full. After an incredible first season as a Colfax Marathon Ambassador, I’m excited to be back for Season 2, represent the Denver running community, support a good cause and hopefully encourage a few more people to take on something they once thought was ridiculous.

Favorite race distance: The marathon — although I have a habit of signing up for races that go much farther.

Spot me at these races: Colfax Marathon, BOLDERBoulder, Spartan races, and some random ultra event.

On my plate for a post-race meal: A big smoothie and pepperoni pizza.

My special race-day ritual: 3 hours of sleep (not by choice), breakfast bowl, and a moment of silence!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Run your race. Whether you’re chasing a Boston qualifier, attempting your first marathon, running the half, or taking on your first 5K, your finish line belongs to you. Don’t get so focused on the clock that you miss Denver, the crowds, the neighborhoods, and everything you did to get there. Keep moving forward, enjoy the miles, and celebrate the finish.

Corina Barragan

I am an empty nester who loves hiking 14ers! My frenchie keeps me company during the day while I work from home coordinating therapy for kids with disabilities. I started running just earlier this year when my little sister challenged me to run the Colfax Marathon! I have never ran more than 5 miles, but my sister was NOT going to beat me on this challenge so we both ran our first marathon this past may.

Favorite race distance: The 1/2 marathon

Spot me at these races: San Diego 1/2 Marathon 8/16 for my birthday celebration. Mexico City Marathon 8/30

On my plate for a post-race meal: Love me some pancakes with lots of butter and syrup!

My special race-day ritual: I have a light breakfast; bread, banana & honey, pack a stretching band for the warm up before the race, big kiss and hug to my husband and frenchie, meet up with my friends from my Latinos Run club as we try to run races together within the club for support and fun outfits.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: The commitment to the training is the hardest part of running, the miles come one at a time and before you know it, you are running marathons! It’s okay to be nervous before a race, but the race is the actual reward for all the training hours you put into it. Have lots of fun and try to smile for the pictures.

David Holland

I am a lifelong runner that is very passionate about running and the running community. My motto is “Running For Those Who Cannot” meaning I run for those who have passed away, battling physical or mental health issues. My own children have now taken on running. I am a special education teacher, wrestling coach, and own my own boxing gym. I have run 15 marathons, over 25 half-marathons, and 3 ultramarathons. My PR for a full marathon is a 3:07:31 (2024) and my goal is to run a sub-3-hour marathon. At 41 years old, I am getting faster every year and I want others no matter what their age is, to be inspired that they can do anything that they put their mind to if they believe in their heart that they can do it. I am now a pacer for other marathons and nothing makes me happier than helping other runners achieve their goals.

Favorite Race Distance: 26.2 Marathon!

Spot Me at these Races: Montana Marathon (6-year race streak), Colfax Marathon (ran 3 times), Big Horn Trail Race in Big Horn Mountains in Wyoming, and The Prospector Trail Race in Cooke City, Montana.

My favorite thing to eat after a post-race is a cheeseburger, chips and salsa or tacos, with an ice-cold fountain Dr. Pepper.

I love to wear apparel with my family and friends pictures or names on my shirt. Family and friends help support me, I love repping them on my body, especially those who have passed away. My favorite thing is crossing the finish line with my beautiful wife and kids there to congratulate me.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: This race has one of the best vibes in the country. When I started running this race in 2010 & 2011, it wasn’t very big, but it had such a great vibe to it. I knew that it would grow to be one of the biggest and hyped races in the country. To see how amazing that it was this year running the full marathon in 2026, the experience itself was incredible. Just have fun, embrace the awesomeness of this race and make sure to remember every moment of it!

Dave Robinson

I’m a military veteran who has always loved pushing myself to see what I’m capable of. Running has been something that has challenged me like nothing else. That is why I have come to LOVE running. Pushing my body and attempting to hit a PR keeps me motivated. My goal is to run all of the world majors one day, but I have to take it one race at a time. I’m hoping to meet some great people on my journey along the way.

Favorite race distance: The marathon. There is something special about the challenge of it all and finally seeing your training pay off when you cross that finish line.

Spot me at these races: Jackass Half Marathon, TCS NYC Marathon, Denver HYROX, and of course the 2027 Colfax Marathon. Who knows! I may add some more races in between there.

On my plate for a pre-race meal: I start with Indian food a couple of nights before the race and then a pasta dish with some chicken the night before. Two hours before the race I enjoy a bowl of dinosaur eggs oatmeal. The dinosaur eggs are what really get me through the race!

My special race-day ritual: I lay out everything the night before, I mean everything, the clothes, my gels, my headphones, my water, my after race bag, and my breakfast. I like to get to the race early to ensure I can get all of the jitters out, take in the atmosphere, and warm up completely before the race.

Favorite training run: My long runs on Saturdays are my favorite training days because I love putting the mileage under my feet and testing out how my body responds to the distance as it increases. You get to train your mind and body. Also, my wife tends to bike with me on my long runs, which makes the long runs feel a little less long. Plus, in my head the more miles you run the more you get to eat.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Each race has a different course, atmosphere, and sights, so ensure you choose the race that is best for you. Also, if you put your mind to it and put in that work, you will be amazed at what your body can do. You got this! The race will feel less daunting when you start running and realize that you have a supportive community alongside you.

Esra Messner

I’m a Patient Services Lead, runner, wife, and proud mom of two! Running is my happy place, it gives me the chance to challenge myself, have fun, and enjoy some much-needed “me time” along the way!

Favorite race distance: The half marathon! It’s the perfect mix of challenge, excitement, and “I can’t believe I just did that!”

Spot me at these races: Labor Day Half Marathon in Parker and, of course, the Denver Colfax Marathon 2027! Everything else is TBD, but I can promise there will be plenty more finish lines ahead!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Ice cream and a cold beer. The perfect reward after putting in the miles!

My special race-day ritual: A quick pre-race pit stop; banana, warm-up, my husband’s famous honey toast, then I’m ready to rock!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Remember, it’s you vs. you! Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Celebrate your own progress, trust yourself, and enjoy every step of the way. You are capable of more than you think, and your journey is uniquely yours.

Gabby Armendariz

Mom of 3, small business owner, Latinos Run Denver leader, and a runner who is already thinking of signing up for races like I have unlimited free time! Hahaha

Currently making my postpartum comeback one questionable mile at a time! Im here for the miles, the community, the medals and obviously the post race food!! BE FOR REAL AND FOLLOW ME ON IG @gabbyrunning_ (and my business account too lol @gacreationsco)

Favorite race distance: 10K! 

Spot me at these races: For now Broncos 7K 

On my plate for a post-race meal: Tacos or torta de tripita or al pastor with a nice cold beer! 

My special race-day ritual: wake up with enough time, do a little pep talk, honestly… a bathroom trip (or three), listen to some good music, and remind myself I PAID to do this hahaha 

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Enjoy the race! Whatever race that is just run YOUR race. Have lots of fun, take pictures and my most favorite, most truthful advice… remember YOU PAID for this lol.

Ilana Bye

As a busy working mom, making space for running is also making space for me. I’m at my best when I hydrate, rest, and run, so I try to get out there at least twice a week. This year, I’m working on getting faster so I can run farther in the same amount of time!

Favorite race distance: Right now, 4–6 miles! I’m focused on getting faster at this distance, because I love building teams for the Colfax Relay!

Spot me at these races: The Colfax Relay! 2027 will be my fifth year running it.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Cheeseburger. Fries. Chocolate milk.

My special race-day ritual: Hydrate the day before, sneak out of the house without waking my kids, and eat a bar in the car on the way to the race.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: The energy on race day is worth all the training! Those nervous jitters start to fade when you’re surrounded by thousands of runners, each with their own unique journey to get to race day. Enjoy your race, soak up the energy, and celebrate at the finish line!

Jane Allard

I’ve been running regularly since age 49. Colfax was my first half marathon, and I’ve completed each distance of Colfax Races since. I recently took early retirement and am enjoying spending lots of time with my 2 dogs and 2 cats.

Favorite race distance: I race in all distances from 5Ks to Ultras. I like the half marathon most because it is still challenging, but training for it doesn’t take up all my time since I’m not fast (I’m just persistent).

Spot me at these races: The 80s Run half, RunDenver Race Series, Pretzel Run, Monster Dash, Santa Claus Run, Wyoming Marathon and more not yet decided.

My motivation: I’m goal oriented so as long as I have a race scheduled in the future, I stick to my training. My long-term goal is to complete at least a half marathon in every state with The Road to 50 Club. Also, my killer playlist.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Trust your training. If this is the first time you’ve done the race distance, your goal should just be to finish. Don’t worry too much about a specific finish time.

Jen Hickman

Colorado native who grew up running in the mountains, then somehow found myself in a career working with some real wild life as a zookeeper.

After years of working with wild animals, I now help runners get a little wild themselves by finding their joy, trusting themselves, and discovering they’re capable of more than they thought.

I’m also a wife and mom of two daughters, and one of my biggest jobs is keeping them wild, free, curious, and brave enough to run toward the things they love.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon, Flyin’ Lion 5k, Yeti Chase, Colfax Marathon

On my plate for a post-race meal: If I could, I would have the lobster pasta from a hole in the wall Italian restaurant in Worcester, MA. So good!

My special race-day ritual: Sourdough bread made from a friend (must be some magic in it!) with PB and local honey for breakfast. Put on my race day playlist for the drive to the race and then soak up the start line energy.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Find your community for the long runs. The miles go by so much quicker with people you enjoy being around. For even more motivation, seek out one of the many run clubs that the Colfax Marathon highlights. There is one that has your people!

Jessica Parkinson

I’m Jessica and fell in love with endurance sports after moving to Colorado seven years ago. What started as a new adventure quickly became a passion for biking through the mountains, triathlons and now running! I’m so grateful for my boyfriend and my dog, Henry, who are always by my side, cheering me on and supporting every one of my wild goals and adventures.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Biking at Tour of the Moon in September and Albuquerque Marathon in November!

Post race meal: A cheesy pepperoni pizza with an ice cold Root Beer.

My special race day ritual: Enjoy my morning cup of coffee or two with my dog, have some breakfast and a banana on the way!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Have fun! If you’re not smiling along the way, then what’s the point? It’s not always about the time, the finish, or winning. It’s about enjoying the journey, embracing the moment, and remembering why you started. So smile, have fun, and enjoy every mile!

Kelly Roddick

I fell in love with running several years ago as a way to calm my mind, and haven’t stopped since. If you pass me on a run, chances are high that I’m shouting Taylor swift lyrics. When I’m not running or working my job as a Production Manager, I’m exploring CO with my two Siberian Huskies (Folly and Mills!), swimming, or cycling.

Favorite race distance: Half-marathon!

Spot me at these races: Littlefoot Triathlon and Chicago Marathon 2027!

On my plate for a post-race meal: A healthy size stack of Pancakes loaded with Nutella, strawberries, and blueberries. And you can’t forget the whipped cream!

My special race-day ritual: Wake up with coffee and a protein waffle with peanut butter and bananas. Then throw on some glitter and head out the door!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Just know that you can absolutely do hard things! Race weekend is so much fun and the reward after all of those hours of training you’ve put in!

Kim Davidson (Lemoi)

I started running in 2011 when a friend talked me into doing a mud run. My first Colfax race was in 2012 in the Marathon Relay, and I have since run Colfax ten more times. I was considering stopping running altogether in 2021, feeling I had achieved my goals, but an opportunity came up to be a Flag Runner for the Broncos. I kept running, qualified for, and ran both the Boston and Chicago marathons in 2025. I am now going on my sixth year running the “B” Flag for the Broncos, and I am excited to see what this year brings as a Colfax Ambassador.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Broncos 7K, Labor Day Half Marathon, 5K on the Runway, and the Golden Leaf Half Marathon. That is just my schedule for September, and I will likely add more races as they come up.

On my plate for a post-race meal: A good burger and a cold beer.

My special race-day ritual: I get up super early to have oatmeal and a bagel with peanut butter and honey. I also enjoy eating a banana while waiting in the porta-potty line before the race.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Colfax race weekend is incredibly fun. Don’t stress, and just enjoy the race!

Laura Lephart

I got into running in 2024 by joining Endurance Run Club It started with going once a week which turned into running multiple times a week and eventually finding my forever running partner and so many friends (shoutout ERC). Running has also been the base for my newest obsession—HYROX. Strength training, endurance and cardio…what could be better. If there’s a race in a new city, count me in. I love using runs as an excuse to travel! As someone who’s been born and raised in Colorado, I’m so excited to be repping the Colfax Marathon for 2027 🙂

Favorite race distance: the half marathon

Spot me at these races: 5k On The Runway, Broncos 7k, Boulderthon Half Marathon, Malibu Moves Half Marathon, Hyrox CDMX, Hyrox Denver, Colfax 2027 and more!

On my plate for a post-race meal: a big bowl of ramen and an ice cold coke

My special race-day ritual: wearing my hair down, glitter on my face and a new race day set

Playing on my headphones: anything Fergie! You’d be surprised at how much faster you run when Fergalicious is on. But also wouldn’t be surprised if I forgot my headphones in the first place.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: the best time you can achieve is having a good time! Enjoy the race day vibes and have fun.

Lauren Beaudin

I’m Lauren (they/them) and I love the Colfax community! I work full time at a Colorado-based nonprofit, part time at a coffee shop on Colfax, and I spend the remainder of my time exploring the city, checking out local music, escaping to the mountains, or occasionally relaxing at home with my 3 cats. Running has been a great way to combine my passions for community and adventure, and having a race on the calendar motivates me to keep pushing when things get difficult. Through my own journey, I hope to inspire other lgbtq+ folks to be visible and take up space in the running culture. “We belong everywhere we decide to be” – Nikki Hiltz

Favorite race distance: so far, the marathon! it’s tough yet so gratifying

Spot me at these races: Continental Divide 50k, Colfax Marathon, BolderBoulder, Pride 5k

On my plate for a post-race meal: you can find me at Watercourse, Fire on the Mountain, or Odell’s bagels after any race or long run in town!

My special race-day ritual: make coffee, eat a bagel, blast music to get hyped, apply glitter, and braid my hair!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: don’t forget what an incredible achievement it is just to be there! and save some energy for the hills in the second half hahaha

Leo Kattari

I am a researcher and civics nerd that believes we have more in common than what divides us. Whether it’s for a run, a coffee, or a sweet treat – you’ll find me bringing people together and creating spaces where we all belong.

Favorite race distance: 10K

Spot me at these races: Currently healing from a running related injury but hoping to be back at local Denver 5K races by the end of the year.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Pizza and probably a cannoli.

My special race-day ritual: Savoring a morning cup of coffee before gearing up and heading out.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Be proud of how far you’ve already come. Also, pose for the photos!

Lisa Hayen

My first half marathon was Colfax, in the first year of the race. My first marathon was Colfax a year later. Since then, I’ve raced and officially paced approximately 10 Colfax races. I’ve also helped pace training runs. This race series definitely holds a special place in my heart.

My favorite race distances are the half marathon and the 50k. I’ll race just about any distance up to (and including) 100 miles. Last year, I had both knees fully replaced. Since then, I’ve run many races including two half marathons and a 36k. I intend to get back to marathon and ultra marathon racing soon.

As a Colfax Ambassador, I want to promote this great race series, but also serve as proof that there can be a successful return to running after joint replacements.

You’ll see me running on Saturdays with Runner’s Edge of the Rockies, and representing Runner’s Roost at races and volunteering opportunities.

Luc Durand

I moved to Denver in 2010 – 2013, and came back late 2025 because I love it here! I have been running since 2016, but I also do triathlons, and enjoy trail running/ultras. Running is my therapy, it allows me to understand and navigate my feelings, but it also makes me feel free of all burdens. I’m a substitute teacher, and I try to show to the next generation how great running is.

Favorite race distance: The marathon

Spot me at these races: Desert Rats. Bolder Boulder 10k. IM 70.3 Boulder.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Burger or quesadilla. Reward myself after the effort.

My special race-day ritual: Shower, staple pre-race breakfast, make my way to the start line listening to my warm up playlist to get me going!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Trust the work you put in training. Run with others. Pace yourself. And most of all enjoy the course/landmarks.

Luke Adams

I started my running journey three years ago and never expected it to become such a big part of my life. Since then, I’ve lost 40 pounds, completed several races, and crossed the finish line of my first full marathon last May. My first-ever race was actually a 1.4-mile underwear run in the middle of freezing Siberia! It was a challenge I did as a contestant on Season 14 of The Amazing Race, long before I ever became a runner. As a Deaf runner, I’m excited to represent the Deaf community and help make running more inclusive and accessible for everyone.

Favorite race distance: The full marathon. There’s something pretty special about the crowd energy—I love how strangers cheer runners on throughout the entire course. That’s what kept me going.

Spot me at these races: Denver 5K on the Runway! (More to come!)

On my plate for a post-race meal: A Whoop Double Burger with bacons, garlic Parmesan fries, a margarita, and cheesecake!

My special race-day ritual: An iced vanilla latte first thing in the morning and getting in some good stretches before the race!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Start slow, don’t give up, and trust the process—it gets better! Try different routes and explore new places to keep your runs fun and fresh. Most importantly, don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Find what makes running enjoyable for you and keep going.

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: I’ve just started training for my 2nd marathon! Catch me at CIM in December! And then of course, you’ll find me at Colfax (distance TBD, but most likely the 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! But I do love to add some extra sparkle to race-day with some glitter!

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!

Mallory Hensley

I am a 10 year resident of Colorado. I have 2 cats and 2 dogs and 74 plants in my house. My favorite color is pink, and my favorite food is buffalo sauce. When I’m not putting in the training miles, you can find me reading a book.

Favorite race distance: The half marathon

Spot me at these races: Monterrey Bay Half Marathon

On my plate for a post-race meal: anything that comes from Taco Bell and a Baja Blast

My special race-day ritual: lightly toasted Asiago bagel from Einsteins that I picked up the day before (no other bagel compares) with just a touch of cream cheese and half a banana. Then, I braid my hair the same way and top with a bow.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: The only person you are competing against is yourself. Enjoy the race, don’t focus on the watch, and feel the energy the other runners bring to the table. You work so hard for these miles, relish in the event and let your training shine.

Minakshi (Mini) Dhanvada

Mom of 2, South Asian immigrant who runs my own coaching company helping other South Asian women prioritize their health and fitness! They say it’s mid life crisis when you take up endurance running as you get older but imagine chasing goals of getting stronger and faster while the whole world is chasing “smaller”! Hoping to inspire other women, young girls and my kiddos that you can do hard things!

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these Races – Hot Chocolate Run 10k, TCS New York City Marathon, Denver Colfax 2027 (Most likely the half) and definitely a bunch of local 5ks to meet the running community

On my plate for a post-race meal: A massive plate of pasta, bread on the side, ice cream, and an ice-cold Coke. I teach my clients to eat balanced meals. But on race day, my balance totally clocks out.

My special race-day ritual: Same bagel with honey and peanut butter, same shot of espresso before every single race. I lace up, hang out with my pup or take him on a short walk before I head out the door!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Those last miles for any distance are going to lie to you. It’ll tell you to quit, that you’re not a runner, that you’re slower than everyone else, that everyone else trained harder. Run through the lie anyway. The version of you who signed up for this months ago already believed you could finish. Take that confidence and grit into those last miles!! YOU CAN DO HARD THINGS!

Pujan Tandukar

I’m still pretty new to all this, I started running in April 2025. Colfax was my first race ever, the half, and I signed up not really knowing what I was getting into. It got me. I came back for the full this May, and I’ve been slowly talking myself into bigger things since. Most days it’s just a mile or two to keep the habit alive, usually with my Australian Shepherd, Fuji, who is a much better running partner than I am.

Favorite Race Distance: The marathon. Somewhere in the back half it stops being about training and starts being about who you are and I’ve never felt more alive than crossing that line.

Spot me at these races: : Broncos 7K, the Boulderthon marathon, and the Hot Chocolate 15K plus wherever training takes me for Boulder 70.3 next June.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Japanese BBQ. I just really look forward to it, and sitting around a grill with people after a long one is my favorite part of the day.

My special race-day ritual: I lay everything out the night before so I’m not making decisions at 5am. Then I get up early, stretch, and spend some time with my pup. My run playlist goes on for the drive over and that’s usually when the nerves turn into something closer to excitement.

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Don’t worry too much about pace or a finish time, especially when starting out. I say that as someone who was completely new not that long ago, I had no idea what I was doing at my first Colfax, and finishing it is still one of my favorite memories. You already did the hard part in training. Show up and enjoy it.

Rachel Barnack

I’ve been running basically since I’ve known how to walk – but officially for about 19 years! I started on my 3rd grade cross country team and have always found myself falling back in love with running even after stints away, time and time again. Running for me has always been so much about the community, and the bonds you can build with someone through physical and mental hardships that blossom into growth. Running is not always pretty, but it always reminds me of the person I want to be. Here’s to a life time of chasing that runners high!

Favorite race distance: the marathon! But I am getting the itch to go even further
(I have one 50k under my belt, too!)

Spot me at these races: Local 5k’s that take last minute registration – Colfax 2027, obviously! , and most likely the full mo 50k 2027!

Playing through my headphones: Anything from Maggie Rogers and Noah Kahan to Rainbow Kitten Surprise to Kendrick Lamar and Mac Miller – I love it all!

On my plate for a post race meal: Every single gluten free pastry in the Denver area. And fresh figs. I loooove figs.

My special race day ritual: Oatmeal for breakfast – and off to the start line! Nothing too crazy – I love to go off vibes on race morning and trust that I’ve done the training for whatever race day may entail!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: Meet yourself where you’re at first. There’s so much glamorization going on right now in running – which is awesome – but you can’t progress if you don’t start where you’re actually at! Learn what YOUR body needs for fuel, find a training plan that works for YOU, learn what YOU like to wear, what shoes actually work for YOUR feet (your local running stores can help get a proper fitting, and you can try on anything and everything to see what you like in real life!). Then get the cute matching outfit or whatever makes you excited for race day. And let yourself get excited about race day glitter. I’m not a glitter person, but trust me, it’s fun.

Ryan Dougherty

I fell in love with running 2 years ago when I signed up for the Colfax Half Marathon. It was so much fun that I knew I wanted to keep pushing myself to see how far I could go. I ran the Colfax Marathon and the Silverheels 50 miler this summer. When I am not running, I love to be in the mountains, either hiking or skiing.

Favorite Race Distance: Anything in the Ultramarathon category. I just love spending long days in the mountains.

On my plate for a post race meal: Pizza. It’s always pizza.

My pre-race ritual is waking up extra early to take my dog for a walk to warmup the body. I eat a bagel, put extra sugar in my coffee, and head out the door.

My race day advice is to not take it too seriously. It’s supposed to be fun!! You’ve already put in all the hard work, and it is time to enjoy the day and do something that you will be proud of for years to come.

Sierra Bennett

I’m Sierra, and I moved to Denver from a small town in Ohio in 2025. I am a second year PhD student in the Immunology program at CU Anschutz, and running is exactly what I need to decompress and focus only on putting one foot in front of the other. I love living in an area that has so many beautiful places and opportunities available for me to move my body! When I’m not running or at school, you can find me with a cozy crochet project or a good book. I believe that consistency and learning are where the magic of running is – forward is a pace!

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me at these races: Taco Bell 50k Ultramarathon, Kansas City Marathon, Kessel Run Ultra, Phoenix Half Marathon, and I am always up for a local 5k to build community.

On my plate for a post-race meal: A latte from a local coffee shop and an overstuffed breakfast burrito call to me.

My special race-day ritual: I do a flat-lay the night before no matter what race it is to make sure I have all of my supplies. The morning of, I like to have 5-10 minutes of calm on the couch. Then it’s sunscreen, glitter, star barrettes, bows, first breakfast, pump up music, and off we go!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: You have waited so long and worked so hard to be where you are right now! Be present in the victory lap (that’s what a race is!) and recognize that you have repeatedly shown up for yourself to make it to this start line. Running is appealing because it is hard, so have fun and enjoy the moments of celebration, there are so many in this race to take in!

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!

Being a Colfax Ambassador last year and running my first marathon made me realize that with proper training, I want to continue to push the boundaries of the human body! Next year I will be doing my first half-iron man, with hopes of doing triathlons and the colfax marathon as training! Otherwise, you will catch me doing orange theory or Pilates when it’s hot, or skiing when it’s snowing!

Ask me about my favorite post long run fuel: Acai bowls with a chipotle bowl, and my favorite supplements for running of honey stingers and Skratch!

Tj Kizuka

I’m Baaaaack! But did I ever really leave?

After a short three-year sabbatical from being a Colfax Ambassador to pursue a new career in aviation, I’m truly excited to be back on the team… officially!

With my job, I get to run all over the world, and some of my highlights include running along picturesque, canal-lined roads built by the Ancient Romans in England, through the rolling green hills of Auckland, New Zealand, along the pristine tropical shoreline of Tahiti, and, of course, through the Denver Zoo as part of the Colfax Marathon Series Half Marathon. It’s like my own personal safari!

I’m constantly looking for new places to add to my personal “Running Passport.” Follow my running adventures on Instagram or Strava at @TJKizuka.

Favorite race distance: “That’s a tough one. I’d have to say April 25th. Because it’s not too hot, not too cold. All you need is a light jacket.” IYKYK….

My favorite distance is the half marathon, but I’m really craving another full marathon for my 50th birthday… Please don’t do the math.

Spot me at these upcoming races: 5K on the Runway Sponsored by United Airlines!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Anything breakfast! I loooove Eggs Benedict and a huge pile of hash browns!

My special race-day ritual: I have a background in theatre, so running is like putting on a show. I enjoy a cup of coffee (or two), do some light warmups, thank my body for what I’m about to accomplish, reflect on the day ahead, and get into character!

Advice for future Colfax race participants: You’ve got this!

The Colfax Marathon Series was my second half marathon and my first full marathon. Enjoy the journey and take in the beautiful sights. Perhaps you’ll even see a firefighter along the way…

(Ooooh, a squirrel!)

A half marathon is about more than just putting one foot in front of the other approximately 27,000 times. It’s a personal celebration of what you can do!

“No matter what people say, if you’re running, you’re a runner—no matter your pace.”

My Mantra…. I call my running style mullet racing: business in the front, party in the back!