JULY ALL STARS

This month there were so many talented runners racing Firekracker 5k and continuing to show up at Green Events races! Because of this, there couldn’t just be one runner of the month, it would be easier to pick 100, but we narrowed it down to two runners based on their performances at Firekracker 5k and their passion not only for running, but for the Fort Collins running community, their families, and bettering themselves. 

Runner of the Month:  Ben Payne

Ben Payne was chosen as the Runner of the Month for July, as he not only won the Elite Master’s 5k race at Firekracker 5k, leading the entire race on his own, he also set a new Master’s course record! Ben’s running journey began by participating in local road races with his parents during his younger years. It wasn’t until he faced a setback during high school that his passion for running truly ignited. “I didn’t get serious about pursuing running until after getting cut from my high school baseball team during my sophomore year, ” Ben said. “I quickly grew to love cross-country & track and was eventually recruited to run at the US Air Force Academy where I competed all 4 years. I was later a member of the USAF World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), competing in both the 2016 & 2020 Olympic Trials Marathon.”

“Training in my current season of life really puts running in perspective – it’s all for fun,” Ben said. His training regimen has taken on a whole new perspective. Despite the demands of family life and career, he remains deeply motivated to continue pursuing his passion for running, especially as a young Masters runner at the age of 41. “I do know that I’ve been blessed with a gift of running fast for long distances, so I am still very motivated to continue to pursue this passion” he assured. “I am now very aware that my training plan doesn’t have to go exactly as scripted, especially as I juggle my responsibilities with my family and my career. I’m very thankful for my wife supporting me in this crazy addiction!”

Looking forward to the future, Ben is excited about the phenomenon of “old man strength” in running. He believes that as he grows older, he becomes a wiser and stronger athlete, drawing on the experience and mileage accumulated over the years. He expresses his enthusiasm for this aspect of his career “Old man strength – it’s real! The older I get, the wiser I become as an athlete. And all that mileage over the years really does turn into strength” he shared. With the Twin Cities Marathon on the horizon, Ben will use his “old man strength” to tackle the race in October.

Ben’s dedication, determination, and love for running serve as an inspiration to all aspiring athletes. From his humble beginnings to a multi-year Olympic Trials qualifier, to an exceptionally fast Masters runner, Ben’s journey showcases the transformative power of perseverance and the joy that comes from pursuing one’s passion.
Runner of the Month:  Dani Cook

This month, it’s exciting to announce that Dani Cook as “Runner of the Month” for July after she won the citizens race at Firekracker 5k, only weeks after racing Grandma’s Marathon! A dedicated and passionate runner, Dani has found her stride amidst the joys and challenges of motherhood.

Life with toddlers can be unpredictable, but Dani stays organized and flexible by making sure her runs aren’t looming over her head. She finds solace in the routine of her morning runs, empowering her to handle whatever the day throws her way. When it comes to fitting in her runs, Dani gets creative about incorporating her little ones into the mix. “On days with easy miles, I take the double stroller out for a run, or I bring my 4-year-old along, who has recently learned to ride a bike,” she explained. “He joins me for short runs while I push our daughter in the stroller.”

For the days she can’t hit the pavement in the early hours, Dani adapts and embraces alternative options. “During nap times, I sneak in some miles on the treadmill, or I join the Fossil Ridge Cross Country team on their runs,” said Dani, who is also a dedicated coach at Fossil Ridge.

Just a few weeks ago, Dani completed Grandma’s Marathon, showcasing her commitment to long-distance races. Currently, she’s enjoying shorter races like the Firecracker 5K and Human Race 5K as she gears up for her next big challenge—a marathon PR this fall or winter.

One of Dani’s favorite aspects of the Fort Collins running community is the sense of fellowship and support. “The camaraderie at events and training groups is truly special,” she enthuses. “There’s a genuine interest in each other’s goals and aspirations. Being part of something bigger helps me in my own endeavors, and I’m inspired by the way runners celebrate each other’s achievements.”

Dani’s determination, organization, and dedication to both running and motherhood are truly inspiring. Fort Collins can’t wait to see you achieve new milestones and conquer your next marathon.

Volunteer of the Month: Amber Sulivann

Meet July’s Volunteer of the Month, Amber Sullivan! Amber is an enthusiastic and dedicated volunteer who selflessly devotes her time to all Green Events’ races. Not only is Amber there to help for the entire event, but she also runs the race! She arrives at least two hours early to help prepare the scene for the runners, unloading and setting up equipment then stays for another two hours after the race helping return the venue to a pristine condition… and she’s been doing this for years! When asked why she chose to volunteer for Green Events, her passion shines through as she says, “they host the BEST races in our community and boast an awesome staff and team”. Amber’s favorite part of volunteering is being actively involved in creating remarkable events that bring joy and excitement to the community. 

As an avid runner herself, she firmly believes that running is not just a physical challenge but also a fantastic way to nourish the body and mind, promoting a healthy practice for all participants. Amber’s commitment is truly commendable, as she enthusiastically promises to attend ALL of the events, emphasizing just how AWESOME they are. With her infectious energy and love for Green Events, Amber is a true asset to our volunteer team and an inspiration to everyone around her. Thank you, Amber, for your unwavering dedication to making our community events extraordinary!

Ambassador of the Month: Nathan Fowler

Introducing Nathan Fowler – a devoted dad, loving husband, skilled technician painter, and the spirited Uncle Sam who leads the charge at the FireKracker 5k! Nathan’s passion for running was ignited by his father’s hilarious and colorful outfits, inspiring the whole family to partake in 5k runs across Colorado. At the tender age of 10, he ran his first 5k, but it wasn’t until his 20s that he truly embraced the sport, following in his father’s footsteps.

Like father like son, a remarkable trait shared between them is their affinity for running and spreading joy. As a dedicated Green Events Ambassador, Nathan is ever-present, capturing unforgettable moments as an official race photographer at all the Green Event Races, while motivating and cheering on runners and walkers alike. For him, the essence of running lies in the strong sense of community among the Fort Collins runners – “one of my favorite things about running besides the freedom you feel is the Fort Collins Running community. The runners here are very supportive of each other. They know what it takes… The ups and downs of this sport; it’s like being part of a club that cheer you on all the time. And by taking photos I feel like I can give back to them as well.” he said.

Nathan’s next daring pursuit is to conquer his first marathon, and not just any marathon but the illustrious Rome Marathon. With training already underway, he sets his sights on making his mark in 2024. As you spot Nathan along the Fort Collins foothills, or see him clicking photos at races, don’t hesitate to share a high five with this exceptional ambassador.

Thank you, Nathan, for being an outstanding ambassador and making a positive impact on the running community!