​Mallorie Gonzalez is a native of Texas. She came to Michigan to live with her mother when she was 10 years old.  Mallorie has always loved the outdoors and trying out new things. From indoor rock climbing, mountain biking, roller skating, hiking, swimming, biking and learning the long board. She believes in making the most of our time given to us on this earth. Because of this mentality, she pushes herself out of her comfort zone and uses her body in all the ways possible. She does not want to grow in age and live with the regrets of what could have been. She wants  to look back on her life gloriously.  She wishes to instill this spirit into her son, family, friends and all who have witnessed her journey. That all things are possible with God at the center of it, loving others like Christ loved the church, pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, always reach for your goals and aspirations. Remember that health is true wealth. A price many pay too late. Live your life to the fullest. Live in the moment and cherish those around you always and forever.  
 
1. How long have you been running?  I started running November 8, 2025, when I signed up for the Hoffmaster Turkey Trot. With absolutely no prior training, I showed up, stretched and went for it.
 
2. Do you race? If so, what is your most memorable race experience?  I do compete in races. 5K’s at the moment. God willing, I’ll be able to run like some of the other runners in this group. It’s so inspiring for someone like me and many others. But for me, the most memorable race would be the Fore Shore Adventure Run. I had a moment during that race that connected the dots for me, and I got a glimpse of what God has planned for me.
 
3. Ever run in a costume? If so, what?  I have not yet run in a costume. Unless you consider what I wore for the St Paddy’s Day 5k I ran for Run Muskegon. I’m looking for a costume for a run on Halloween for Redeem MI. Such a great cause as well.
 
4. Only running shoes for me are...  I ran Asics before the Contend 6. I upgraded to the Nike Pegasus Trail Gore Tex shoes.
 
5. What is your worst running-related injury?  Thank God I haven’t sustained any injuries aside from sore muscles.
 
6. Hot or cold weather runner?  Honestly, I can run in both. My favorite weather to run in is that fall feeling air or when it’s a nice warm rain. I love running in the rain.
 
7. What is your motivation for running?  For me running is about discipline. If you were to ask, why did I start to run? I would have to say God. I believe God told me to run and he kept prodding me to. He would not stop putting this thought in my head and in my surroundings. I do not know the reason why I have to do this but I trust in Him and one day it will all make sense to me.
 
8. If I didn't run I.... I wouldn’t do well mentally. I really wouldn’t have learned how much running helps with this aspect of your health and well-being. Somewhere along the way on a trying day, all I can think of is I need to go on a run.
 
9. I can't run without... Now hear me out but I cannot run with my lips being dry. LOL I must have them moisturized. Say they weren’t and I’m running all extra thirsty as well. I legit would feel like Jim Carey’s character in Me, Myself and Irene. If you know, you know.
 
10. What's the farthest you have run at one time?  My farthest run to date would be when I ran 5 miles. I look forward to building the endurance and stamina necessary for longer distances. In my head, I’m an Apache runner, out running horses.
 
11. What brought you to Run Muskegon and why have you stayed? This would go back to one of the signs given to me by God. I was obedient to His will. I stayed because I hope to make connections with people who have similar interests in being active. Slowly I am making some connections. So many in this group are so inspiring, kind and supportive of the members. I am very thankful to have found a group like this.
 
Mallorie feels honored to have been chosen for the Run Muskegon Runner Spotlight. She does not believe herself to be the fastest or one who runs the furthest. What she does have is discipline, a quiet determination and an attitude to never give up. She hopes to inspire and motivate others into action.
 
 
 
 

​Barry really started taking running seriously after a few adult refreshments with some friends one evening led to him being talked into running the Seaway Run in 2025.  What started as one race quickly turned into something much bigger. Since then, Barry has completed 18 races ranging from 5K to 10K, and what began as a bit of friendly persuasion has become a serious commitment to running.  Now, he’s training for his first half marathon later this year, continuing to push himself, set new goals, and see just how far this journey can take him.
 
Barry met his wife, Amanda, while they were both at Best Buy in 2001. Three years later, in September 2004, they were married and began building the life they share today. Together, they have three kids, with their youngest entering their senior year this year, along with three dogs who keep life busy and entertaining.
 
Family is at the heart of what Barry enjoys most. He loves spending time with Amanda and their family, and when he’s not with them, you’ll often find him running or biking, camping with lifelong friends, or looking forward to their annual vacation to Panama City Beach, Florida.
 
1. How long have you been running?  Seriously since April of 2025, never thought I’d enjoy it like I do now.  I got addicted and now it’s become a way of life.
 
2. Do you race? If so, what is your most memorable race experience?  For sure!  I’d have to say my favorite race so far was the Nashville hot chocolate 10k, there was so much excitement and cheering for the whole race, the finish line was electric and my buddy Aaron and I crossed 1 second apart, it was such a great feeling. My first half marathon will be later this year and I’m both excited and nervous.
 
3. Ever run in a costume? If so, what?  I haven’t yet but I’m sure I’ll get talked into it by some of my friends from Run Muskegon. 

4. Only running shoes for me are...  Whatever shoes are in my size.  I’ve never been a person to have more than a pair of shoes and work boots and now I have a rack and then some. But I’m in love with the new Topo Specter 3s.

5. What is your worst running-related injury?  My knees, I’ve had arthritis since I was quite young and it’s taken its toll through the years.  It rears its ugly head once in a while but I’m gonna keep running till I can’t do it anymore.

6. Hot or cold weather runner?  Gimme the cooler weather in the fall and spring any day

7. What is your motivation for running?  My wife and kids.  I want to be around as long as I can for them. I lost a bunch of weight in the last few years and don’t want to spoil the gift I was given.

8. If I didn't run I....  Don’t even want to think about it, gotta burn of the stress somehow.

9. I can't run without...  My playlists and podcasts. 
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10. What's the farthest you have run at one time?  12 miles but increasing a little at a time thanks to my friends pushing me. 
 
11. What brought you to Run Muskegon and why have you stayed?  Jared Alderink was the one who first told me about the group. I wasn’t sure at first if I was going to fit in. Between being in a new place, getting comfortable around new people, and dealing with my own social anxiety, I wasn’t sure if this was going to be for me.
On my fourth visit, I was doing my cool-down walk when Lindsey stopped me and started chatting with me. She told me about some of the other runners and all the different things the club does, and she introduced me to Tom. That simple conversation meant more than she probably realized. If Lindsey hadn’t stopped to talk to me that day, I honestly don’t think I would have stuck it out. Sometimes, all it takes is one person to make you feel like you belong, and for me, that person was Lindsey.  Had a nice talk with her and Tom that evening and it meant a lot.