Ambassadors (All) | Seattle Marathon

AMBASSADORS

MEET our 2025 ambassador team

ELITE AMBASSADORS

ERIN ZACKEY

When I was younger running helped me to feel confident, and gave me a strength I didn’t normally possess as a smaller statured person. When I came back to running as an adult after a nearly 20 year hiatus I was reminded again of how running not only helped with my strength and confidence, but also gave me better mental clarity, a work/life/health balance, and a running community of friends. Running has become such an important part of my life, and I find great joy in being a runner!

LORENA WRIGHT

I am an endocrinologist, and I have been running for 8 years. My specialty is diabetes care so I figured I had to be an example for my patients. I am 50 years old and running has helped my mental health enormously that I want to share with everyone who wonderful being healthy is, and running helps you get there.

DANIELLE THOMPSON

Excited to be back for my 3rd year representing SMA as an elite ambassador, SMA was my first marathon in 2022 and since then I’ve ran my 24th consecutive marathon a month streak, don’t we just love a streak. I’ll also be chasing and training for a 100K Ultra in late fall. Join me for the party pace and let’s make it a great year!

BRANDY SIMIS

I started running thru sprint triathlons in 2004. In 2005 the group of ladies I trained with decided to do Seattle half marathon. Through training for the I discovered a love of running and Seattle half became a November tradition until covid hit. Running gives me a chance to realize everyday stress while meeting people from all walks of life. I've discovered a love of running and traveling and am working on a half marathon in all 50 states.

ARUN ASOK RAJEE

I’ve been a long distance runner since 2010 and ran 20+ full and half marathons across India, Singapore, and the US. In 2023, I committed to speed training and currently a whisker (51 seconds!) away from the elusive sub-90 min in half marathons. Running brings me immense peace and is a journey of exploring new places and friends.

FAISAL PIAS

KARENA PAEK

This year I’m working on my “running come back”. My journey started around 2013, when I had two young kids and was looking to get more active. I started running solo around my neighborhood, slowly stretching out my length and exploring new routes for about a year. At this time, running was my escape, my “me” time. My day was full of taking care of my kids and their needs (which I loved), but having this time to myself - to explore the neighborhood, challenge myself, set goals, and feel a sense of accomplishment - was incredibly important.I then discovered run clubs and joined Nike Run Club Seattle and later CSRD. Running regularly with others was so fun and motivating. I me too many people who were like minded, positive and encouraging. This was my intro into the running community and when I started entering races. I also ran with other running groups - Greenlake, Brooks, and a trail running group.Beginning with the 5k distance I entered lots of races and worked my way up to the half marathon. I ran seven half marathons (including the Seattle Marathon Half multiple times) and even flew to Arizona with some run club friends for a Rock n Roll Half and drove down to Eugene for another Half. I called into a local radio station and won free registration for the Rock N Roll Seattle Full marathon. I trained and I did it, I became a marathoner in 2017!!Life got busy and my schedule made it difficult to regularly go to run club but I continued to join when I could and kept up my solo running in between - inviting my friends and family to join and spreading the love for running. I’ve had some big life changes in the last few years - getting married and in Spring 2024 having my third baby. In between, I entered the Bellingham half with my sister in law at four months pregnant. Our goal was to have fun and finish, jogging and walking along the way.After resting and recovering, in summer of last year, I slowly got back to running. I’m currently running about 4-5 days per week (walking daily) and am working on extending back out my length (current long run is at 8 miles) and working on improving my speed. My big goal for this year is to run a half marathon toward the end of the year and really enjoy the journey a long the way by entering shorter races and reconnecting with others and meeting new people in the running community. My long term goal is to run another full marathon in 2027.

RICARDO ORTEGA RAMIREZ

My running journey began not long ago, but now it’s a big part of my life. Running is not only a way to improve my physical health, but a good way to clear my head and deal with mental health issues. It can be tough to find a good time to run, and I sometimes have to go through a cycle of finding a new spot each time I run. It’s rewarding to run for me, but I find it hard to start. Once I start running, though, I find it hard to stop!

ADEDOTUN OJELABI

I started long distance running regularly in June 2023 after finishing the 10k portion of an Olympic triathlon in 52 minutes. Since then, I've completed multiple 10ks, half marathons, and my first marathon (the Cascade Express Marathon in September 2024). I now run to maintain fitness and to clear my head, especially on solo runs. Running is also a readily accessible activity, open to everyone.

SANDY NAMGUNG

Running has always held a special place in my heart. As a girl, I found joy in the freedom of movement it provided. However, it wasn’t until my late twenties that I truly embraced the identity of a runner. I used to run competitively, but after training for the Boston Marathon in 2020, my perspective on running changed. I no longer prioritize pace or distance. Instead, I run by feel, savoring the happiness each step brings. Beyond the personal gratification, I cherish the vibrant running community. Connecting with fellow runners, supporting their journeys, and inspiring others to embrace the sport has become an integral part of my running experience.

SANDRA MIKULIC

At 43 years old I decided to lace up and start running. Ive run 7 Seattle marathons and have been an ambassador 6 years. Ive also dabbled in Ultras; completing 2 x 50km races and 2 x 100km races. I started a 5 km streak on January 1st 2019 (running or walking thats helped me heal trauma and self-loathing. .I am a self-proclaimed plus sized runner and now magazine publisher of the first ever fitness magazine for the unvonventional athlete called ' Run Your Life Magazine'. I'm not shy to talk about 250 pound body size and also help inspire thousands of women on Instagram to move in the body that they have today, And not wait for a thinner body tomorrow.

SHAY MEYER

I ran track in HS (sprinting) to stay in shape for other sports. I started running more years after a significant car accident in 2005. It took years before I could even try to run. It started with one block in my neighborhood. It took a couple more years to “run” a 5k. I think that was in 2012. I slowly built up miles and ran my first “half” (the race director made an oops and the distance was maybe 11.5 miles- I was relieved- ha!). During the pandemic I joined a run club for community (it was only FB at first) and I was kind of scared because I wasn’t a “real” runner. I met so many amazing humans. In 2021 I was talked into putting my name into the NY marathon lottery. I knew I would never get my name pulled. Oops… it was! I never would have made it through without epic community. I was hooked. I’ve run Chicago and Boston since. Through it all I have been supported as a nonbinary runner by the Seattle area running community. I love that Seattle Marathon supports nonbinary runners.

KASHFI KALAM

Started running about two years ago. Started helping me to recover from personal suffering. I am enjoying the journey and I will continue doing it.

BRANDON JOHNSON

Running encompasses not only my identity but the answer to life's blessings and life's difficult challenges. I absolutely love running and sharing how important it is to take care of ourselves as we age. Healthy aging fosters running and constantly building motion.

RACHEL TAYLOR

I'm the mom of a spunky 7 year old girl and my journey started back in high school. It wasn't until my early 30's that I started running races and fell in love with competing. I have spent the last 3 years traveling the world collecting all 6 of my stars in the Abbott WMM program and just completed this in Tokyo last March. Running saved my life, and my mental health. I love to encourage other to chase their dreams and i would love to be a part of the Seattle Marathon team! Giving back at races by volunteering is so rewarding and I can't wait to help other runners reach for the sky!

NIDHI HOODA

I started running towards the end of 2023. In 20204, I set a goat of 600 miles for myself and ended up exceeding my own expectations and running ~670 miles and 1000+ if you count walking. It all started as a way to get my dog some exercise and now it is turning out to be other way around. Running is one of the most underrated activity that one does for their own self and it has helped me find my community here.

ANDREA FINCH

Running means I can be myself, it calms me, helps me clear my mind and sort my thoughts, makes me an overall happier and more balanced person and it made me find my people

HIRAL DAS

I am thrilled to apply for the opportunity to be a Seattle Marathon Ambassador in 2025. Running has been a transformative journey for me since 2011 when I first came to US, and participating in running events across Greater Seattle area has played a significant role in shaping that experience. The supportive running community (all paces/no on leaves behind attitude), scenic courses across Seattle, learning from other runners, and commitment to making each race memorable have inspired me to enjoy, celebrate, and appreciate every single mile. As someone who has been running for several years, I’ve built a connection to the joy and perseverance that come with the sport. Running sets my soul on fire and I hope I get to enjoy the sport for as long as I can with family (husband and two little munchkins). Your races have become a highlight of our running calendar. I also share a common challenge with many passionate runners- trying to stop myself from constantly talking about running! Do I try? Yes. Am I successful not talking about it? No 😊. Whether I am at my work at Seattle Children’s Hospital, or volunteering at kid’s school, I find myself mentioning races, training plans, encouraging others to try the sport (if they haven’t felt comfortable yet), or chatting about other runner parent's experience and journey.

DENIS DA SILVA

I started running to challenge my body post hip surgery. Running means community and exercise. I love the Seattle Running community and explore the city and the region while running. I Love to participate in several running groups and share the stoke from running.

AMY CUNNINHAM

I’m about to take on my 12 & 13 marathon in Tokyo and Boston this spring. I started running to cope with the loss of my Dad to lung cancer. Running was the healthiest way to process my grief. I’m thankful of the role running has had in keeping me healthy and strong for my family.

COREY BLACKBURN

I've been running off and on for years. It's a great way to balance out working a desk job and get my body moving and get outdoors. I love to run in costumes and just have a good time keeping the stoke high

LAUREN BACHMAN

I am a leisure runner that enjoys signing up for local and distant races for community and travel experiences! I like to push myself but don’t put a lot of pressure on myself for times, etc, more just to have fun and see what I can do each time! I love trying new things, including triathlons, too, but the running aspect is my big love :) UW Medicine is near and dear to me as an alumni Physical Therapist, and this race is a huge goal of mine! I would love to promote it, yet involved in it passionately, and find further community in the city I love with a hobby I love!

AMBASSADORS

ERIKA WHINIHAN

I started running in 1997 before marathoning was popular (ha!), ran my first marathon in 2000 (Portland), and have been running for the last 28 years! Running has allowed me to travel around the world to complete the World Marathon Majors, brought me so many wonderful friends, and countless joyful memories. Whatever challenges life brings, running helps me overcome and offers the solitude and routine I crave. I love the Seattle Marathon and have participated in the event in some form since 2006. After achieving most of my running goals, I am ready to see what else I can do for running through volunteering and promoting my hometown race!

STEVEN TRAN

I started running a little over three years ago in late 2021 because I was unhappy about my overall physical and mental health and wanted to challenge myself to do something about the situation. The first few months were incredibly difficult because I was not acculturated to physical activity at all and as a result ran (no pun intended) into a number of injuries. I persisted through the pain as I learned to adapt my diet, exercise, and other habits to help me achieve this goal. I did my first 5k one month after I started and my first 10k - a loop around Lake Union - one month after that. I completed my first half marathon in March 2022 and my first marathon in March 2023 (Los Angeles). Each step gave me confidence not only in my own physical abilities but my mental fortitude and ability to grit through difficult moments. Since starting, I have run five marathons so far and plan to run another five marathons this year.Fun fact: Everyone who knows me (and I mean everyone) knows that I have tried to convince them to start running with me at some point or other.

DEBBIE TOMASSINI

I started running back in 2013 to live a better healthier life getting off of drugs and just bad habits. My first race was for Seach and Rescue to help raise money for the organization. Once I did that race I was hooked. Not only do I work on keeping myself motivated I strive to help others as well live healthier lifestyles, 9 years ago I started a Free Bootcamp which I started in California wheras I had / have 1.5K followers, In 2022 I moved to Renton Washington wheras I expanded my Team here adding it to my California team so far I have 96 Members and work daily to get that number up - I have all ages from 3 Years old to 65 years old - I coach free bootcamps at a church weekly and we run, walk or bike Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays I suffer with Arthritis, Degenerate disc disease, mortons neuroma. menopause, buldging disc and anxiety but I refuse to let this keep me stationary - This is what I Teach my Team - you must keep moving forward and stay as healthy as you can, you are the only one you can count on. ( Im rambling now - I could just keep going but I hope you get my quest / passion )

NICK STENGER

I discovered running at the age of 25 to maintain good health and meet new friends. For me, longevity is the ultimate goal. I like to say anyone can train for a few months but imagine the possibilities if you keep showing up and stick with it longer! Running to me means It’s never too late. Running gives us all an opportunity to stay active, embrace community, and be competitive no matter where we are in life. I hope to help others see that.

ANGELA SPIERENBURG

This year I am celebrating 10 years of running! I started running because I had be working out with a trainer at a local gym and thought that running with a local group would provide me with an opportunity to meet some new people. 10 years later, I've lost 75 lbs and have had 2 weight loss reconstructive surgeries. As a proud slow runner, I feel it is important to foster a culture of inclusivity in the running community here in Toronto, ensuring that those in the back feel just as values and supported no matter what. Whether it's finishing a race at my own pace or cheering on others who might not believe in themselves, I believe that ever runner deserves to be seen, respected and celebrated. No matter how long it takes them to cross the finish line.

NEHA SHUKLA

I started outdoor running in 2020 after moving to Seattle, and I’ve been running consistently ever since. In my first year alone, I lost 30 pounds, lowered my resting heart rate by 20 bpm, and have maintained my fitness over the past five years. So far, I’ve completed four half marathons and one 10K races, with my most recent half marathon at the Seattle Marathon in Dec 2024. This year, I’ve also hired a running coach to help me prepare for my first full marathon.Running has taught me resilience and the power of positive thinking. In November 2021, I survived a major health setback and was unable to run for two months. While my body slowly recovered from the infection, it was running that helped me heal mentally. In January 2022, I resumed my training by signing up for my first race - Seattle’s Cherry Blossom Half Marathon in March. Since then, running has repeatedly helped me regain strength and bounce back from life’s challenges.

DIANE SCHUMAN

After a difficult time, I turned to running as a way to cope and prioritize my mental health. What started as a way to clear my mind quickly became my form of meditation—a time for reflection, release, and growth. Running has been the backbone of my healing journey, helping me rebuild both mentally and physically. It’s more than just exercise for me; it’s a space where I find strength, resilience, and peace.

HATEM SAADAOUI

I’m starting running when stopped smoking in 2016 and my first 10k in 2018, after on years I did it half marathon 2019 and than 2020 my full marathon and whe coming Canada I did many marathon , half I now I’m qualified for Tokyo marathon 2025 I love it this my dream I have many friends and team I Victoria BC canada

JONATHAN PUSATERI

I never considered myself a runner, but running a marathon was on my bucket list. Twelve weeks before the Seattle Marathon, I made that decision to take on the challenge, not knowing what to expect. And now, as I am preparing to run my first major marathon, the Chicago Marathon, I’ve learned that I am capable of much more than I thought. This journey has not only shown me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to, but it has also brought incredible friendships along the way. Running has become a reminder that with determination, anything is possible.

RANDALL PEABODY

I started seriously running in 2022 and ran my first marathon with almost no training. Three years on and I've completed ten marathons, countless half-marathons and am on pace to hit a Boston Qualifier this year, fingers crossed!

ALAN LEUNG

Started running in January 2024, like many others, to lose weight. The first two months was a struggle but once I saw and felt running became easier, it became enjoyable and now, it’s all I think about. Never in my life I took running seriously, now in my mid 30s, running is life. I would encourage my friends, co workers, even my wife to run and all the benefits of it. Now in year 2025, I have signed up for my second marathon, this time more prepared than the first. Additionally, signed up for others runs in support of my wife and friends. Running is important to me as it not only help me lose weight, but connect me with other like minded people. Hopefully my influence will start new hobbies for the amazing people around me.

DANIEL LARIOS

Long story short, I’m a runner for 5 years and ran 15+ half marathons since 2021, 4 full marathons and the Seattle Marathon as my first one in 2022. Running is a sport to challenge somebody else, but gives good mental clarity when you’re out there for a run whether yourself or with a group.

STEFFI FUCHS

I started running 25 years ago,just running for fun, I didn't care how far or how fast I was running. 15 years ago I run my first 5K and learned Runners High is a real thing!!! Many 5K and 10K later, I run my first Half marathon in Leavenworth. And in 2021 I crossed the finish line at my first marathon in Chicago. I have run the New York marathon, Berlin and last year I run the Boston Marathon and our local favorite one rhe Jack & Jull.

STEPHANIE DUNLAP

Running after I crossed the finish line of my first marathon in 2012. In that year, I went from zero miles to 26.2! That experience was transformative. It wasn’t just about the physical challenge; it was about proving to myself that I could do hard things, that I could push through discomfort, and that I was stronger than I ever gave myself credit for.Since then, running has become so much more than just a way to stay active. It’s my therapy, my escape, and my connection to a community of people who inspire me every single day. As a marathon pacer and run coach, I’ve had the privilege of helping others discover that same strength within themselves. There’s nothing quite like watching someone cross the finish line of their first marathon, knowing you played a small role in their journey.For me, running is about showing up, not just for races but for life. It’s a way to clear my mind, celebrate my body, and connect with others. Whether I’m out for a solo sunrise run or pacing a group through 26.2 miles, running always reminds me to appreciate the journey, one step at a time.

LISA CABILES

I am an avid ultrarunner competing in the 50 and 100 miles races mostly. I just returned from Hurt 100 (January 18th race) m, and am now preparing for Jackpot 🎰 100 on February 15th. My first marathon was the Seattle Marathon 2016 inn which I qualified for Boston. The Seattle Marathon will always hold a special place in my Heart. I’ve run numerous marathons since then including the Boston Marathon (3 times) and Chicago Marathon. I love now using marathons as training runs for the longer distance ultras I do. I have 3 children who are my biggest supporters. Hopefully one day they may run a marathon with me :)

JUSTIN BRITT

Seattle is always home to us. Running the half marathon is exactly what my soul needs. I am an ex Seahawk & running has helped me transition and to escape anxiety & depression.

DERRICK BATES JR.

I started running in 2022. I used it as conditioning for basketball. I started racing in 2024. I feel in love with road racing after doing the Seattle cherry blossom run!

SARAH BALDWIN

I’ve tried to be a runner my entire adult life but it wasn’t until two years ago when it finally stuck. After losing 70 lbs and taking up running, I’ve been betting on myself and my strength ever since.

AMANDA BAER-PECKHAM

My running journey began in 2023 after I was inspired by a coworker who ran his first marathon (the Seattle Marathon). Seeing him manage to train and complete the race despite how demanding our jobs are really made me believe I could do it too. I decided to set a realistic goal for myself and ran my first half marathon in April 2023. The experience was challenging but rewarding. In 2024, I started thinking about running a full marathon, but I wasn’t sure if I had what it took to complete the full distance. My coworker, who had become a source of motivation for me, encouraged me to go for it, so I signed up for the Bellingham Bay Marathon. To prepare, I ran a couple of half marathons: the Whidbey Island Half Marathon in April and the Redmond Harvest Half Marathon in August. Each race taught me more about my limits and how to push beyond them.Completing the Bellingham Bay Marathon was an incredible feeling, but I didn’t want to chalk it up to luck. I wanted to prove to myself I could do it again and it was the result of consistent training. So, I signed up for the Seattle Marathon later that year, eager to test my progress. Not only did I finish the race I beat my previous time. Throughout this process, I realized just how much running had positively impacted my mental health. I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety for years. I tried therapy and medication, but nothing has helped as much as running. For me, running represents peace and self-empowerment. It’s a time where I can process my thoughts and feel a sense of clarity. One of the most powerful moments was during the Bellingham Bay Marathon, at mile ten, my mind felt at ease—no racing thoughts, just calmness. I never regret going for a run, even on tough days, because I always feel better afterward. Running has given me a space to clear my mind, build resilience, and feel strong, not just physically but mentally as well. It’s become a crucial part of my journey toward healing and growth.

MARJAN ASHRAFI

25 years of non stop running. I love running for the mental health, the body strength and the endurace I have learned.

JAMES ALVAREZ-CARPENTER

I began running in my undergrad college years as a way to cope with stress. I would go for a long run every time I had an exam grade posted so I could look at the results at the end of the run while experiencing a runners high! Since that time I have adapted running as a kind of self care. A time I can just meditate with myself and really give things thought. I think there are so few spaces for that in todays world so to have running be my escape has been a great and consistent thing in my life for a long time and I plan on having that be the case for the rest of my life!