Madison Marathon Profile: Emily Kurian

Emily Kurian, age 30, will defend her title in the Madison Marathon on November 9, 2014. Wife and training partner of accomplished regional runner Joe Kurian, Emily is drawn to running as a healthy lifelong activity. Emily and Joe competed in the 2014 NYC Marathon on November 2, 2014 - a mere 1 week before the Madison Marathon.

Madison Marathon Profile: Ashley Matthys

Ashley Matthys missed the deadline for registering for the soccer team in seventh grade - so she took up running instead. Now, as she prepares for her first-ever Madison Marathon 26.2 distance, she can't imagine a deeper passion for any sport aside from running. Read about Ashley's experiences in this Madison Marathon athlete profile.

Madison Marathon Profile: Anthony Garcia

Anthony Garcia, 26, didn't always think of himself as an athlete; after all, he said, "I was barely to make three plays in touch football in college." But that was before he started running, lost 100 pounds, and completed a back-to-back Twilight 10K and Half Marathon race during the spring Madison Marathon events.

Madison Marathon Profile: Jan Hagen

Avid runner Jan Hagen is headed toward the finish line of her 100th marathon, choosing the Madison Marathon for the triple-digit accomplishment. Undeterred by health challenges, Hagen hopes to "inspire others to be more aware of how fitness contributes to a fulfilling lifestyle."

Madison Marathon Profile: Douglas Dulli

Douglas Dulli didn't start running until he was nearly 40 years old - but the first day he laced up his sneakers, it evoked such a passion for the sport that his feet began making up for lost time. Now 62, he's preparing for his 100th marathon: the 2014 Madison Marathon, raced on familiar, oft-tread streets.

Madison Marathon Profile: Becky Pelnar

Madison runner Becky Pelnar fell in love with her sport and never looked back. Pelnar overcame injury to complete nine half-marathons and one marathon - and has her sights set on a personal record. "I never used to be a runner, but all it takes is pushing yourself a little further and further each time," she said. "You just need to remember to relax, enjoy the scenery as you go, and smile."

Care2Tri: Inclusion and Acceptance of Differently Abled Athletes

Care2Tri is a nonprofit dedicated to making it possible for differently-abled people to experience the challenge, the thrill, and the joy of participating in triathlons and similar events by helping them compete. We caught up with Ryan Flynn, one of the founders and leaders of the Care2Tri Chicago chapter, after the Pleasant Prairie Triathlon and asked him about his organization. Read what he had to say about his personal experiences with Care2Tri.

Lake Mills Triathlete Profile: Klaas van Zanten

Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2003, Klaas van Zanten discovered a love of triathlon and refused to be deterred by his illness. With the help of his friend Jay Handy, he competed in the Lake Mills Triathlon and encourages others with Parkinson's to "be physically active - choose an activity you like, one that challenges you."

Madison Marathon Profile: Erika Stuart

Searching for a sport that she could enjoy as a lifelong activity, Erika Stuart began running - and continued to train even with the challenges of having four children in less than six years. Viewing the event as "the gateway to a great summer," Erika looks forward to participating in another Madison Half-Marathon on June 25.

Madison Marathon Profile: Krissy Schintgen

Running has changed everything for Krissy Schintgen, a survivor of two strokes who set aside her cane and heavy medications - determined to begin running with her daughter. After completing a 5K in June 2013, Krissy completed a half-marathon in November and is training for her first full marathon.

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