AMBASSADORS

Abigail Moran

My name is Abigail Moran, but I go by Abby. I’m 21 years old, and love all things outdoors, running, lifting, and pretty much anything active makes me happy. I also love to bake and I’m currently going to Weber State studying psychology while working three jobs, one at Ogden High School as a Staff Aide, one at Weber State as the Race Manager (coach to 5k program is coming soon!), and one at St. Joseph Catholic High as their cross-country coach.

Amara Janke

I’m Amara Janke, I own Team Crazy Fit, I love being a mom, working out and running. I’ve run 14 Ogden Half Marathons. I run because it clears my mind, helps me to be creative and handle stress better. I love the workout and that you can do it anywhere!

Anne Pingree

Hi! I am Anne. I am a member of 50 States Half Marathons. The Ogden Marathon is my all-time favorite because of the beautiful course in the Ogden area, the great medals, and the awesome volunteers and GOAL staff. I am super excited for the Ogden Half to be my 100th half marathon! My 2023 plans include the Ogden Half Marathon and a few others. Ogden Marathon is always on the top of my list. I have completed an Ogden Marathon race every year since I started racing in 2003 - 11 Ogden FULL Marathons, 6 Ogden HALF Marathons, and 2 Ogden Marathon RELAYS. I run for LIFE!!

Autumn Cluff

Hello, I’m Autumn, the wife to a full time military man/high school wrestling coach and the mother of two (adult) children. Ever since I was a little girl I was into fitness. I worked out with my mom to Jane Fonda records and Richard Simons video tapes, telling her one day I’d be teaching my own classes. I joined the track team in high school to impress a boy I was crushing on not realizing that running would become a huge part of my life. After I got married and gave birth to my first child 9/11 happened and I turned to running and working out at the gym to relieve stress because I knew my husband would deploy. I was pregnant with my second child when I was loading groceries in my car and stumbled upon the St. George marathon. My husband deployed a few months later, and I gave birth to my son a month after he left. Four weeks after giving birth, with the doctor's approval, I started training for my first marathon, and was teaching my first yoga class.

Becky Espinoza

Becky, a born and raised, Ogdenite, has overcome so much with running – it has become a part of her life to be healthy, both mentally and physically. In Spring of 2019, Becky learned she had a benign brain tumor and had surgery early fall, only after her surgeon gave the okay to run the several races planned in early spring and throughout the summer. She did have minor setbacks from surgery, the most difficult one was learning how to walk. It was then she realized every race in 2019 had more meaning than any other race she has run. This didn’t set her back though, she is overcoming it and will be ready to run the Ogden Marathon. The Ogden Marathon was her first full and loves it for the strong sense of community, through the support of volunteers and spectators, and in her opinion, the BEST and most BEAUTIFUL course to exist. Becky encourages others to see that life's difficulties are small stepping stones and running can help in many ways.

Bethany Brown

I’m Bethany Brown, I have 6 kids ranging in age from 3-20, I teach middle school, and I live to run! I’ve been participating in the Ogden Marathon weekend since 2005 - it’s my streak race! I run because it makes me feel alive!

Bre Carter

Mom of 4, wife, soccer coach and HS science teacher.
Oh how running fuels my soul, inspires ideas, gratitude and keeps me curious for big goals! This next 2024 Ogden marathon will be my 10th consecutive full on this amazing course! Many of those years pushing through rain, gaining PR’s and qualifying for Boston! I’m a Weber State Alumni, playing D1 soccer there, so I have MANY core memories throughout Ogden and the surrounding areas. This course is great for 1st timers and for those more experienced.
I’m also a huge trail runner, beginner ultra racer and Ogden has plenty peaks and trails for you to enjoy as well. Hope to see you around! Stay curious and brave with your goals - you won’t regret it.

Chealsy Darby

My name is Chealsy. This is my first year as an Ogden Marathon Ambassador. I found my love for running in 5th grade during a school event, called the Wellsville Mile, where I came in second place and received the Spirit Award. I had so much fun training and participating in this event that I started running regularly. Since then, I have signed up for many races across Utah. The Ogden Marathon is a favorite of mine because nothing will beat running down the Ogden Canyon. When I am not running, I am spending time outdoors with my family, reading, and working on my yoga teacher training.

Chloe Sell

My name is Chloe Sell. I’m 25 years old and I grew up in Nampa, Idaho. I grew up playing basketball & soccer and running XC & Track. I went onto play basketball at The College of Idaho and moved here (Ogden) by transferring to Weber State University where I essentially met my husband and started a family! We’ve got 3 beautiful children, all 4 & under.
I’ve been running competitively and for fun my entire life. It’s more for fun these days and competition against myself, but all the therapy and peace of mind I need! I live along the Ogden East Bench so I’m always trail running and enjoying our awesome trails! I’ve done many Half Marathons including our very own Ogden Half Marathon as well as the 12k. I cannot wait for Ogden Marathon 2024! Let’s do this thing!

David "D" Upvall

Hi! My friends call me “D.” I started running over 10 years ago or so and it's still changing my life for the better! I’ve have been running the Ogden Marathon half & full and the Winter Running Series since 2018. I run because I honestly love running! I love the positive benefits I get from running, the endorphins (runner's high), and all of my many amazing friends I’ve met running! Ogden has welcomed me with open arms and I truly now feel a true Ogdennite! My passions are Running (especially trial running) as well as hiking! I have had my ups & downs with running and life… however I keep striving and moving forward! I hope to be an inspiration for others that are struggling… whether that is injuries, weight, depression, or anything else! If you are an under dog I’m rooting for you!!! I truly hope that if you see this message, that you will come run with us! Regardless, if it is a short race or a long one; remember a slow, mile is the same distance as a fast mile!

Elizabeth Garcia

I've lived in Ogden for 19 years. I started running in 2015, a few years after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. After beginning medications meant to save my life, I started to gain a lot of weight. I was also told that the chances of me losing use of my legs was very high. So, I made the decision to make some changes. Originally starting as a weight-loss journey, it became a goal to continue using my legs while I still had the opportunity. In 2015 I ran at decent time, assuming I'd get better and quicker over the years. Turns out, that was not the case. As progression of MS has occurred, I've definitely become a slower runner. You'll find me towards the back of the back. But that doesn't mean I'll ever give up.
I continue my role as an Ogden Marathon ambassador to encourage those that run with the back of the pack. A mile is a mile, 6 minute miles, 9 minute miles, or even those 15 minute miles. We're all running the same distance. Don't be discouraged with your slower times.

Heather Turner

Hey, Heather Turner here! I'm an Idaho gal at my core but I love my life here in Ogden, Utah, where I've lived for over six years. Running is one of my favorite ways to keep my mental and physical health in check so I can live a long and happy, active life with my husband and dog. I had suffered a handful of sports injuries in those six years. However, in 2023 I came back to running by committing to the Winter Running Series and Ogden Marathon (I couldn't even run a mile!) where I completed a marathon for the first time! I am a firm believer that our bodies are far more capable than we might think; and that in time anything is possible if you listen to your body, educate yourself on proper injury prevention and nutrition, and apply your best effort.
Seeing the ups and downs on one's journey inspires me, and I hope to inspire you in some way. Otherwise you'll find me running somewhere in the back half of the pack taking pictures and videos, having fun, and cheering you on as we go!

Inez Martinez

My name is Inez Martinez. I was born in the beautiful state of Utah. My parents are from Guanajuato Mexico. I am a wife and mom of 2. I Love the mountains, I love to hike. I work full time and own a small makeup boutique where I go to pop up events. I am really excited and proud to have been chosen as an Ambassador. I am a beginner, I have only ran a couple 5ks and 1 10k. 2024 will be my first half marathon and full marathon. I LOVE that running has taught me I can do hard things and push myself to be better and go a little further each time.

Jaime Alcock

I'm an accountant by day but a runner at heart. My marathon PR is a 3:16:38, and a 01:31:53 PR in the half marathon. I'm currently on a mission to complete the 6 World Marathon Majors and have thus far checked off Boston and Chicago. Hoping to go international in 2024!! I have 2 dogs who do not enjoy running with me, but luckily my husband does and will be joining me this year in Ogden. This will be my third time running Ogden and I can't wait! Such a beautiful and scenic route and nothing beats the support staff and crowds that cheer you to the finish!

Jason Child

I’m Jason or best known as wildchild. I have grown up in Ogden. I Love this place. Running is a huge passion of mine. Early morning or late nights, rain or shine I love the adventure. When I’m not running I love being on the bike and be with my little family.

Javier Rodriguez

My name is Javier Rodriguez, and I'm excited to be an Ogden Marathon Ambassador. I started running in March of 2021, in conjunction with a weightlifting program with the goal of running a half marathon. In the pursuit of that goal I lost about 80 pounds and in March of 2022, I ran the Zion Half Marathon.

I then began working toward a full marathon and ran many more races, including the Ogden Half Marathon, on the path to completing a full marathon in Portland, Oregon in October of 2023. I'm looking forward to running Ogden again in 2024 and especially to being an Ambassador for one of the best races I've had on this journey, the Ogden Marathon, and encouraging others to join us for this race and to get out and live through my personal mantra: run far, lift heavy, eat well, and dare mighty things.

Jeff Callister

My name is Jeff Callister and I live in South Ogden, Utah. In my spare time, I can usually be found running the trails above Ogden and I love our great little town and all that it has to offer the outdoor enthusiasts! I have participated in the Ogden Marathon events now for two years. I only discovered my passion for running about three years ago. I started with the Ogden Marathon 5K in 2020 (run virtually, thanks to Covid) I had to sit 2021 out due to an injury and then in 2022 I ran the inaugural 12K distance, which I loved! The run down beautiful Ogden Canyon is amazing and this past year I was able to set PRs in both my 5K and 10K distances as part of this run! Such a fast and beautiful course! For 2023, I have registered for the half marathon and am still trying to talk myself into running the full marathon someday. We'll see...for now I am content running the shorter distances. I run for many reasons... the get outside and breath in some fresh mountain air, to clear my mind

Jo Winiarski Linanne

My name is Jo and I am arrived in Ogden from NYC right before the pandemic. I have loved finding and becoming a part of Ogden’s amazing running community. I ran the Ogden Marathon last year as a pacer as part of the American Flyers Race Pacers it was a fantastic experience. I am so looking forward to running this gorgeous course a second time.

Jori Torman

My name is Jori Torman and I live by the motto "Relentless Forward Progression." If you hang around me long enough YOU WILL end up running some sort of race. This year will be my 12th Ogden Marathon and I keep coming back because it's the perfect race to keep yourself in shape and trained through the spring and winter for. I run because I love how I feel after. It may be a struggle to get out the door and get that 1st mile in but I never regret it when I am done.

Karen Bishop

I LOVE to run…anywhere and everywhere… roads, treadmills, and most of all mountain trails. I have participated in 7 Ogden Marathons. I love the beautiful views the entire way and the amazing volunteers. I run because it is my happy time and place.

Kari Harbath

I'm a long-time Ogdenite and one-third of Sloan's Scrunchies. (You might've met us at the expo in years past!) I'm also on the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind Advisory Council, Utah Parent Council, and board member for The Rare Life podcast. A highlight of my day is running a few miles on the Ogden River Parkway with my super rad daughter, Sloan. I've ran ten GOAL events dating back to 2012 with my family - memories I will always cherish now that my mom and husband have passed. I run for my mental health, high mom-daughter vibes, and to be a healthy caregiver for my daughter.

Kassidy Hale

Hello, I'm Kassidy Hale, a 24-year-old gearing up for my first-ever full marathon. With four half marathons under my belt, I'm eager to take on the ultimate challenge. Originally from Davis County, I've since found my home in Weber County after getting married, and I've cherished the past four years living here.By day, I work at a physical therapy clinic, which has played a crucial role in maintaining my fitness for those long runs. My greatest support comes from my loving husband, and I can't forget my 3-year-old German Shepherd, who amusingly keeps me on pace during my runs.

Becoming an ambassador is a new and slightly uncomfortable venture for me, but it's in these moments of discomfort that growth happens – much like in running itself. I'm excited to embark on this journey with all of you, and I hope we can hold each other accountable and motivate one another along the way!

Kate Underwood

Hi, I’m Kate Underwood, I’m the Associate Head Coach at Brown's Gymnastics in Las Vegas, Nevada. When I’m not busy working with my athletes, I'm running. Even though my running journey is relatively new as I only began running outdoors in October of 2022 once I started, I never looked back. When I’m not working or running, I love working out, hiking, watching sports, or spending time with my friends and family.
In the past year I’ve completed several 5, 10, and 12k races. I finished my first half marathon in March 2023, my second (which was Ogden) in May 2023, and then decided to attempt a 50k for my 50th birthday in June! I not only completed it but finished first overall female. I’ve finished 2 more half marathons this fall and am hoping to complete my first official marathon in November!
The Ogden Marathon made such a positive impact on me that I knew I wanted to come back and play a bigger role.

Kelton Johnston

I’m Kelton Johnston and I am a husband and a dad to one little boy and two dogs! I have ran 4 Ogden Marathon events, and the Ogden Marathon was my first and favorite! I run for my mental health.

LaQuitta Probasco

Hello! I’m LaQuitta, but most people call me Quitta!! I was born and raised in Ogden, and recently got back into running!! I have ran 10 Ogden Marathon half marathons and 1 full! (And have participated in 5 of the Winter Running Series!) I love running down the canyon! The excitement at the finish line! Knowing I just completed something that I didn’t think I could do a few years ago!! Hearing the cheers and the enthusiasm of the spectators gets me to the end!! I run because I wanted to get healthy after years of not taking care of myself - to better myself everyday!

Lauren Eccles

I started running for fun my freshman year of college. I wanted to see if I could run for two hours without stopping. I did and was instantly hooked! I’ve since completed many marathons and Ironmans. It’s been a few years since I have done a race because I am a single mom of 2 little kids. I’m so excited to train and run in the Ogden marathon again! The Ogden marathon was my first half and also my first full marathon. My goal is to get another BQ time!

Lora Erickson

Hi! My name is Lora Erickson and I am a longtime coach and Ironman athlete. I love all things outdoor including; hiking, fishing and backpacking! I’ve done the Ogden Half Marathon four or five times and absolutely LOVE running down that beautiful canyon. I run because I enjoy challenging myself! It’s all about getting out there and living life to the fullest!

Michael Cox

I’m excited to be an Ogden Marathon Ambassador this year! I am a big fan of this beautiful place and all it has to offer. I started my Marathon journey in 2017 when I ran the full Ogden Marathon for the first time. I finished strongly and was very pleased. It was an awesome experience for me. I have run it along with several other marathons since 2017. I’ve met a lot of great people marathoning and enjoyed the camaraderie. I love the experience of running. I hope to share the experience with you all, we will go for a run soon.

Mika Shaw

I’m Mika Shaw! I am mother of two boys (and 2 dogs) and a wife to my wonderful husband of 8 years. My passions include running, hiking, baking/cooking or just being out with my family. I started running as a way to honor my father after his passing in 2021 #runlikeMel. Ogden was my first half marathon so it holds a special place in my heart. I’ve done a lot of races but Ogden is hands down the best and my favorite.

Ryan Head

I am a Running Enthusiast, Dad, Husband, and Passionate about Making the World a Better Place. I have run four Ogden Marathons (2018, 2019, 2021 (virtual) and 2022) and love everything about the course. Running through the canyon is one of the best running experiences. I run because I believe we all have the strength to do hard things. Life is hard at times but doing things that we don’t necessarily believe we can, propels us forward and changes lives.

Samantha MacIntyre

Hi! My name is Samantha MacIntyre. I’m 25 years old and originally from Cape Cod Massachusetts, but currently reside in Idaho. I started my running journey in May of 2022 with no prior experience. I’ve had exercise induced asthma since I was born and never thought I would ever be able to be a distance runner but I was determined to reach that goal. I had no idea how much running would change my life. I have loved sharing my running journey on social media and helping other new runners reach their goals.

Tim Cottrell

I'm a runner, lover of: football, yard work and relaxing after a hards day of work. I have ran five Ogden Marathons. I love the scenery of the race, the energy and how well it's organized. I run for fun, health and to see what my body is capable of.

Tyler Seal

My name is Tyler Seal, I’m a Utah native and have lived in the Ogden area for most of my life. I’m married and have 2 girls and a brand new baby boy. I’ve always been a sports and outdoors thrill seeker. I grew up hooked on playing basketball, boating, camping, and many other outdoor activities. Ogden is an amazing place to live AND play! Running became a love of mine a couple years ago when one of my best friends got me hooked on long runs. My progress started by completing my first 5K in July of 2021, which then led to my first 10K the following month, and then to my first half marathon the month after that. You could say things progressed rather quickly! After completing my first half, I knew I wanted to give my first marathon a try. The Ogden Marathon was my first full marathon I ran in 2022, less than a year after I started running. It was one of the most humbling, yet thrilling experiences of my life. It challenged me physically and mentally, but I grew so much from it.