The SRC Ambassador Program is Back! And better than ever. We are really excited to find 10 to 15 enthusiastic and motivational people to represent our running events as Ambassadors. Ambassadors will receive exclusive perks and be a trusted part of the Snohomish Running Company. Ambassadors are a vital marketing and volunteer resource for the Snohomish Running Company.
We will have 2 different options available for those chosen to be an ambassador; standard ambassador or charity ambassador. Both groups will have the same requirements. However, it’s the perks that will differentiate between the two.
Requirements
- Post on your social media pages no less than twice per month.
- Volunteer at 1 Snohomish Running Company event.
- Provide SRC with educational, fun or motivating social media posts.
- Volunteer to help clean up Lowell Snohomish River Road.
- If located in Snohomish or King County they lead no less than one group run of an SRC event route.
- Optional: Represent Snohomish Running Company at other running event expos or races.
What a Standard Ambassador Receives:
- Lululemon SRC Ambassador race top.
- One Free race entry of their choice.
- 15% off discount code for all SRC Events.
- Free race photos from the events.
- Attendance at the year end SRC Party.
- Discounts on products from SRC Vendors (goodr, lululemon, Garmin, Shokz and more).
- Every time their discount code is used they will earn $2 which can be redeemed at the year end party on products from SRC vendors.
- Discounts and potentially free entries to non-SRC running events.
Meet Our Ambassadors
Pammy Thorp
I have 4 boys so my life is chaotic and constantly busy and taking care of myself is last on the list of priorities. I run for my mental and physical health and to be honest, I loathed people like me years ago but now I’m hoping to inspire others to change. I was overweight, kept making excuses for myself and looking for a way out of misery and unhappiness. So, instead of making more excuses, I decided to do something about it and I went for walks instead. Then it turned into power walking, then jogging, then running. I was hooked! It cleared my mind, I slept better, my knees didn’t hurt so bad, and I was losing weight. Win-win all around! I just wish I had done it earlier. My kids asked me the other day what I think about when I’m running and I said “It depends on the day. I’m either running towards tacos and margaritas or running away from you guys!”
Favorite SRC Event: Evergreen Half
Taryn Hynek
Taryn is a returning Snohomish Running Company ambassador who brings passion, consistency, and an unmistakable love for the running community. She is a fast age group runner who is not elite but highly competitive, with aspirations that include qualifying for Boston or other major marathons. Her running journey began in high school when she tried cross country as a way to challenge herself and support her overall health. After stepping away from running for several years, she picked it back up during COVID, and everything changed.
Running quickly became more than just exercise for Taryn. It became a space where she could grow, heal, and rediscover herself. She credits movement and fitness with helping her rebuild her life and confidence, and she recently celebrated ten years of sobriety. Through running, she found community, belonging, and a sense of purpose she had not experienced before. The support, accountability, and encouragement from fellow runners continue to inspire her every day, both on the road and in life.
Taryn is deeply involved in the local running scene and is a familiar face at multiple weekly run clubs. While she is not the primary leader, she regularly serves as a backup leader and support runner for group runs throughout the week, including meetups in Mill Creek and Everett. She is also extremely involved with Northwest Trail Runs and often describes herself as a practical ambassador due to her consistent presence and support. Whether it is showing up for a weekday run, cheering at events, or encouraging others to stay consistent, Taryn leads by example.
Her favorite SRC event changes from year to year, but the Mukilteo Turkey Trot holds a special place in her heart. She loves the energy of the event, from families walking together to runners racing for age group awards, costumes, and the overall joy that fills the course. For Taryn, it represents everything she loves about running and community.
Taryn runs for many reasons. She runs to stay fit, challenge herself, and support her mental and emotional well being. She runs to clear her mind, build confidence, explore new places, and form meaningful friendships. She also runs because it brings her joy, allows her to celebrate what her body can do, and yes, because it lets her enjoy all the food afterward. Outside of running, Taryn works as a commercial plumber, is a proud dog mom to a French and an English bulldog, loves dressing up for themed runs, and prefers trail running whenever she can.
Favorite SRC Event: Mukilteo Turkey Trot
Taylor Gordon
Taylor is based in Everett, Washington and has been an athlete her entire life, previously competing in soccer and basketball. As she got older, running became the challenge that continued to push her fitness, discipline, and personal growth.
Taylor is an active and familiar presence in the local running community and regularly attends multiple run clubs throughout the week, including Everett Running Group, ETA Running Group, and Totem Lake Run Club. What motivates her most is the community. Showing up alongside like minded people for weekly meetups, races, and shared experiences goes far beyond the miles.
In 2021, Taylor experienced the sudden and unexpected loss of her husband, which led her to step away from running for two years. After spending much of that time alone, she realized she needed connection and eventually found her way back through weekly run clubs. Running did not just bring movement back into her life, it brought her back to life. Through community, consistency, and showing up again, she found healing, purpose, and strength.
Taylor hopes to inspire others who are navigating grief or difficult seasons by showing that pouring into yourself and finding your people can be a powerful light forward. For her, running is a metaphor for life. The best pace is simply forward, one foot in front of the other. She is excited to be part of the Snohomish Running Company Ambassador team in 2026.
Favorite SRC Event: Snohomish River Run
Veronika Basanets
Benjamin Lukone
Benjamin considers himself a middle of the pack runner who found running during a time when anxiety and declining health were beginning to take over his life. What started as a way to relax quickly became something much more meaningful. Running gave him structure, purpose, and a way to reset both mentally and physically. Over time, it became a daily commitment to getting better one day at a time.
Benjamin may not describe his story as inspirational, but he leads by example. He believes in putting in the work, staying consistent, and showing up even when it’s hard. That mindset carries into every aspect of his life. He loves the challenge of running and is drawn to both the physical demands and the “science side” of the sport. For him, there is always something new to learn, improve, or refine, which keeps running exciting and motivating.
Outside of running, Benjamin brings natural leadership and energy to everything he does. He is a musician on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights and works in sales during the week, blending creativity with strong people skills. Growing up, he served as captain of every team he played on and helped turn once winless programs into winning seasons. He still carries that same mentality today: first one there, last one to leave, and always willing to put in the work.
As a 2026 SRC Ambassador, Benjamin is excited to represent a community that values effort, consistency, and progress. His approach to running and life is simple and steady — show up, do the work, and take it one day at a time.
Favorite SRC Event: Evergreen Half
Kate Bergman
Kate’s running journey is a story of growth, mindset, and confidence. While running once felt intimidating, she eventually realized the barrier was more mental than physical. After deciding to give it another try, she laced up a pair of Skechers walking shoes, ran two miles, and signed up for her first half marathon just three months later – a decision that changed everything.
Since then, Kate has completed 18 half marathons and 9 full marathons, proving to herself and countless others that it is never too late to start. She is now a proud middle of the pack runner who loves the process as much as the finish line. What keeps her motivated is the running community. Standing at a start line surrounded by people who have spent weeks and months training toward the same goal is something she finds truly special, and the shared excitement never gets old.
Kate is deeply engaged in the running community, both online and in real life, and regularly participates in the Seattle Green Lake Running Group. She loves encouraging runners at every stage, especially those who say things like “I could never run.” Through sharing her journey, she helps others realize that running is possible for them too, no matter when they start.
Running is Kate’s “me time.” It’s her space to think, reset, and solve the world’s problems. And if she’s being honest, it also gives her a great excuse to enjoy her favorite post run treats, including Maltby Cafe cinnamon rolls. Kate is excited to represent Snohomish Running Company as a 2026 ambassador and bring a welcoming, relatable perspective to the running community.
Favorite SRC Event: Mill Town Half
Travis Aquino
Travis is based in Mukilteo and serves on active duty in the U.S. Navy. He considers himself a middle of the pack runner and uses running as a powerful tool for mental strength and resilience. Running became especially important during a difficult season in his life, helping him prove to himself that he could work through pain and keep moving forward. That personal growth continues to shape how he approaches both running and life.
What motivates Travis most is mental health and inspiring others. Running has shown him that discomfort is temporary and that perseverance builds confidence. He strives to encourage others to challenge themselves and believe they can overcome more than they think, both on the run and beyond it.
Having moved to the area in November 2024 and spending the past ten months deployed, he is excited to become more involved in SRC events as his schedule allows. He looks forward to being a consistent presence in the local running community starting in summer 2026, following a short deployment earlier that year.
Travis runs to continually prove to himself that he can overcome any pain and to help motivate others to do the same. As a 2026 SRC Ambassador, he is proud to represent a community that values perseverance, support, and showing up, no matter the pace.
Favorite SRC Event: Mukilteo Turkey Trot
Danielle Thompson
Danielle is a returning Snohomish Running Company ambassador who brings consistency, heart, and a deep appreciation for the running community. Having previously served as an SRC ambassador, she understands the importance of showing up – for the miles, for the people, and for the moments that matter most.
Running plays a powerful role in Danielle’s life, offering both challenge and connection. She values the shared experience of race days, community events, and the relationships built through movement. Whether it’s encouraging others on their journey or continuing to push her own limits, Danielle believes running is about more than pace – it’s about perseverance, belonging, and growth.
As a returning ambassador for 2026, Danielle is excited to continue representing Snohomish Running Company and supporting the inclusive, welcoming community that makes SRC events so special. She looks forward to another year of shared miles, encouragement, and showing up together.
Melissa Rendiz
Melissa started running in junior high and high school with cross country and track. As life got busier, runni-ng became her goto workout requiring just shoes and the open together. During COVID, she challenged herself to run daily for a year, logging 1,200+ miles. She has since increased her mileage, reaching 1,644 miles in a year. Her racing journey spans 18 states (and counting) and international races in Canada, New Zealand, Iceland, and Costa Rica. Turning 50, she celebrated with her first marathon, then a 50K ultra pushing through even after a fall requiring stitches. She thrives on challenges, earning multiple age-group podium finishes, especially in technical trail races.
Melissa loves building community through running organizing creative group runs, supporting local businesses, and volunteering at races. For her, running is about adventure, mental health, and connection. She believes it’s for everyone any time, any place, any distance and she’s always ready to encourage others to join in!
Favorite SRC Event: Mukilteo Turkey Trot
Running Groups: ETA
Lindy Baker
After major back surgery and complications recovering from a knee surgery I found myself obese, sedentary and depressed. Nearing 50 years old I knew one thing, I didn’t want to live the rest of my life unable to keep up with my grandkids. Early in 2018 I had started losing weight, attending a water aerobics class for exercise and had finally found a physical therapist who was making progress with my knee. On April 22, 2018 my physical therapist gently said to me “it’s time to stop counting your steps and start counting your miles” and he encouraged me to register for a 5K. I was averaging just 8,000 steps a day at that time, but by June of that year I walked my very first 5K. I was instantly hooked!! That year I also walked my first of 8K, 10K, and 12K distances. 2019 brought my first 15K, Portland to Coast Relay and my very first Half Marathon (Snohomish River Run). From sedentary to Half Marathoner in 15 months. Since then I have walked approximately 120 live races, with 18 of them being Half Marathons. I currently have a 5+ year walking streak of at least 1 mile OUTSIDE daily. After burning out a bit on the Half distance, I’m working my way back to it this year!! I’m excited to be an ambassador for Snohomish Running Company as I love the live race environment- everyone out there doing their personal best and supporting each other is incredibly inspiring. In addition to races, I do enjoy reading, baking cheesecakes, traveling, playing cribbage with my hubby, and finally…. keeping up with my 8 grandkids!! I want to encourage anyone at ANY fitness level to get out there and Keep Moving Forward. It’s not the number of years in your life but the life in your years!! So join me, it doesn’t matter if you walk or walk/run, there is power in the back of the pack!! Let’s get out there and keep moving!! Aft
Favorite SRC Event: Evergreen Half
Lisa Ibanez
My running journey began 15 years ago in my hometown of Miami, when I began training in the hot, humid Summer for the Chicago Half-Marathon. From that point on, I was hooked on the discipline, mental toughness, and copious carb loading that comes with long distance running. I’ve completed 5 half-marathons and several trail runs including last year’s beautiful Snohomish River Run. My fave running spots are parks and trails in Bothell/Mill Creek, SLU, and Green Lake. When I am not running, I’m bringing in a little strength with CrossFit, a little flair with dance classes, and a little joy with ice cream shop hopping!
Favorite SRC Event: Snohomish River Run
Stacey Riden
Now in her early 50s, Stacey is proud to still be running and considers herself a middle-of-the-pack runner who values consistency over speed. Running helps her reset mentally and emotionally-when she’s struggling with something, a good run clears her head and helps her feel better. She also runs with gratitude, often thinking of those who are unable to run and carrying that perspective with her on every outing.
Stacey’s motivation comes from movement itself and the simple fact that her body still allows her to run- something she never takes for granted. Recently retired, she’s excited to give back to a community that feels like second nature to her. She loves that SRC events welcome everyone, whether they walk, jog, or run.
Michaela Fuller
Michaela began running during a season of burnout, when she realized she needed something just for herself. While she was focused on chasing career goals, she felt the pull to create a personal goal to work toward, one that supported both her body and mind. What started as a simple commitment to move her body eventually led her to sign up for her first half marathon, giving her a clear 12-week training goal to focus on. Through running, she found consistency, confidence, and mental clarity, and over time, a supportive and encouraging community.
She did not grow up identifying as a runner, though she did grow up playing competitive soccer. Running became something entirely different for her, a personal practice built around consistency, presence, and self-trust rather than performance. As she began sharing her journey and showing up consistently, friends who once said they “weren’t runners” started joining her on runs, attending run clubs, and signing up for races for the first time. Seeing others try something new, build confidence, and surprise themselves is what continues to inspire her.
Running supports both Michaela’s mental and physical health and serves as a positive reset when life feels busy or overwhelming. She enjoys setting personal pace goals and using races as motivation in her training, with a focus on progress rather than comparison. Her favorite SRC event, the Snohomish River Run, has become an annual tradition. Whether she’s running the half marathon or the 5K, it’s a race she trains for intentionally and loves returning to year after year as a marker of growth.
Outside of running, Michaela is a co-owner of the meal prep company Fuller NutriFuel and the catering company Table and Tines Catering, where she focuses on nourishment that supports both performance and everyday life. She is also a certified sound bath practitioner through the PAVED Podcast, blending movement, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation into her approach to wellness. Running plays a key role in that lifestyle, complementing how she cares for both her body and mind. As a 2026 SRC Ambassador, Michaela is excited to continue sharing the joy of running in a way that feels balanced, sustainable, and welcoming to all.
Favorite SRC Event: Snohomish River Run
John Shangin
John found his passion for running through Snohomish Running Company, and it has completely transformed his life. Since starting his journey, he has lost 100 lbs, reversed hypertension and pre-diabetes, and eliminated the need for medication—all through running.
He’s motivated by both his own progress and the achievements of others. His favorite SRC event is the Mukilteo Turkey Trot 5K, a festive small-town race full of holiday spirit and family fun.
Running has taken John across the country—he’s completed 22 full marathons in 16 states and doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon. For him, running is the key to better physical and mental health, and he loves sharing that passion with the community!
Jenifer Lyman
Jenifer picked up running simply because she needed something to do—and found a passion for the adventure, camaraderie, and personal challenge it brings. She started running again in her early 40s and embraces being a back-of-the-pack, interval runner, focused on pushing her own limits rather than winning.
Her favorite SRC events are Holiday on the Bay and the Snohomish River Run, both for their scenic locations and great atmosphere. She runs not just for fitness, but for the friendships and encouragement found in the running community.
A positive and supportive presence, Jenifer loves motivating others to believe in themselves and keep going. She’s all about spreading joy, kindness, and a little extra peace—one step at a time.
Jennalee Schuler
Jennalee’s running journey is rooted in resilience and faith. Her past shaped her in meaningful ways, and through her faith she discovered running as a positive outlet for growth, healing, and strength. When she first started, she could not even run half a mile. In 2010, she surprised herself by completing her very first race, a half marathon, which showed her that her past did not define her and that she was capable of far more than she had imagined.
Now a middle of the pack runner, Jennalee runs primarily solo in Whatcom County, near the Canadian border, but enjoys traveling to Snohomish County to run with friends and take part in the SRC community. Running continues to support her mental clarity, stress relief, and overall well being. It also helps manage Sjögren’s flares and provides energy that carries into her daily life. She is especially motivated by her kids and wants to model a healthy, active lifestyle for them.
Jennalee believes in never giving up. Life can be challenging, but she feels strongly that perseverance and forward motion matter, no matter the pace. Running is a reminder that growth happens one step at a time.
Her favorite SRC event is the Snohomish River Run, which she loves for its beautiful route, supportive atmosphere, and personal significance. As a first time ambassador, Jennalee is grateful for the SRC community and excited to give back to a group that has consistently supported runners at every level.
Favorite SRC Event: Snohomish River Run
Nye Davies
Nye’s running journey began as training for Tough Mudder and obstacle course races, but he soon fell in love with ultra and distance running. Now, running is not just about endurance—it’s a key tool for mindfulness and mental clarity, helping him process thoughts and ideas.
He runs to chase goals and surpass past limits, proving that growth is always possible. After being told he wasn’t built for long distances, he defied expectations by completing multiple ultras and 24-hour obstacle races in extreme conditions. His story is a testament to setting your own goals and going all in.
Nye has raced both the Mill Town Marathon and the Fastest 10K, setting a personal best in 2024. He runs to stay fit, strengthen his mind, and uplift others, greeting every passerby with a smile and a kind word—because running should be about positivity and community.
Favorite SRC Event: World’s Fastest 10K
Sharon Price
Sharon started running as a way to stay healthy for herself and her boys after her divorce. What began as a challenge quickly became a source of strength, stress relief, and confidence.
For much of her life, she believed she couldn’t run—now, she asks, “Why not?” Running has shown her that she is strong, capable, and can do hard things. She loves encouraging others to start their own running journey, proving that anyone can run.
Her favorite SRC event is the Snohomish River Run, where the scenic course along the river makes every mile enjoyable. While she may be shy, she’s passionate about helping others find their way to a healthier lifestyle through running.
Breanna Thai
Breanna’s running journey began after a major shift in her athletic life. After years as an avid powerlifter, a back injury led her to return to running, a sport she loved during her middle and high school track years. In 2022, she signed up for her first half marathon and committed to training, quickly discovering a new passion. Since then, she has completed four half marathons, one full marathon, and many races in between, proudly identifying as a middle of the pack runner who values progress, consistency, and personal growth.
Running has become Breanna’s constant. It challenges her, grounds her, and gives her something positive to work toward during every season of life. She loves how the sport evolves alongside her, with goals, pacing, and perspectives shifting over time. Training for races and crossing the finish line brings her a deep sense of accomplishment and something to look forward to throughout the year.
While she has not yet raced an SRC event, the Mukilteo Turkey Trot holds a special place in her heart. She has spent time spectating and loves the welcoming atmosphere and sense of community the event brings. Breanna is currently registered for her next marathon in May 2026 and hopes to complete an SRC half marathon as part of her training. She has recently begun sharing her running journey on TikTok, documenting both the highs and lows of training with honesty and enthusiasm.
Favorite SRC Event: Mukilteo Turkey Trot
Gina Forestieri
Gina is a later-in-life runner who discovered that once she started running, nothing else compared. What began simply because she loved it quickly turned into a lifelong passion rooted in consistency, curiosity, and continual improvement. Running clears her head, challenges her in the best way, and gives her something that no other activity ever has.
Gina is a fast age-group runner who is not elite but remains highly competitive, with the goal of qualifying for Boston and other major marathons. Her dedication to the sport is unmatched. She has completed 123 half marathons and 33 full marathons, including a half marathon in all 50 states and full marathons in 32 states. She is proudly a member of Marathon Maniacs, Half Fanatics, the 50 States Marathon Club, the 50 State Half Marathon Club, and the 100 Half Marathon Club.
Gina’s mindset is simple and powerful. Get better, keep showing up, and never give up. She believes that everyone has their own possibilities and that forward motion matters, reminding others that they are already ahead of anyone still sitting on the couch. Running, for Gina, is about ownership of your journey and finding joy in the process.
Gina has run many races throughout the Pacific Northwest and has a deep appreciation for the Snohomish area and the PNW running community. She loves the energy, scenery, and race culture that SRC events bring to the region.
As a 2026 SRC Ambassador, Gina is excited to continue representing a sport that has given her clarity, purpose, and endless opportunity for growth. She hopes her journey shows that it is never too late to start, dream big, and chase ambitious goals.
Favorite SRC Event: Mill Town Half