Andre Souza

I am a graduate student and former D1 runner at the University of the Pacific. I have run two marathons, following my junior and senior cross-country seasons, and my PR is 2:32. I have been running for almost my entire life, and I am excited to pace the Humboldt Bay Marathon!

Vacant

We are still looking for a 3:10 marathon pacer.

Vacant

We are still looking for a 3:30 marathon pacer.

Alicia Mengel

I'm a middle aged, science teacher, almost empty nester mom of four with alopecia areata universalis who likes to run long distances and teach fitness classes, paddleboard and bake. I started running marathons fifteen years ago (when all my hair fell out). To date I have run about twenty-three marathons and seven ultra marathons. My PRs are 3:27 for the marathon and 5:27 for the ultra marathon. This spring, I finally caught the unicorn that I have been chasing and ran the Boston Marathon-- in October, I will be racing the Chicago Marathon. I love pacing and look forward to meeting new people and helping them meet their goals.

Lanore Bergenske

Hello, runners! I’m a middle school teacher from Fortuna, California, with 40 years of both teaching and running under my belt. To date, I've logged over 100 marathons and ultramarathons across all distances and terrains—though I have a special place in my heart for the grueling challenge of climbing a big mountain. I’m an active member of the Six Rivers Running Club and have completed 5 out of the 6 World Marathon Majors, with my sights set on finishing my journey at Tokyo in 2027. This will be my third time pacing at HBM. For me, the absolute best part of pacing is connecting with other runners, offering encouragement, and helping you crush your race-day goals. Let's run a great race together!

Kelli Starr

Kelli is our pacer for 4:15 marathoners.

Sky McKinley

A seasoned distance runner based in Arcata, California, Sky blends discipline with deep love for the trail. With three marathons and a 50k under his belt, he runs daily—not for medals, but for clarity, resilience, and the quiet joy of moving through the world on foot. He recently set his marathon PR of 3:27 in the Avenue of the Giants marathon and is training for a 50k in October.

Kelly Ridgway

In 2020 at age 34, I was diagnosed with a rare condition called Vertebral Artery Dissection which caused me to have 5 strokes. Before my VAD and strokes, I was extremely active in CrossFit, running and pretty much anything that kept me active and fit.

"Lucky for me, at 6 months post-diagnosis, I got cleared to begin slowly adding exercise back into my routine. I started with the most difficult single-mile run of my life, but by the time of my one-year stroke anniversary, I ran a celebratory half marathon. Just before the two year mark, I completed the Oakland Marathon! That same year, I met the minds behind the Humboldt Bay Marathon and became involved with this wonderful race and fabulous community. So, when Terri asked me to be a Pacer for the Humboldt Bay full marathon 2024, I was hesitant, but ultimately said "Hell Yes!"

Being told I may never run again ignited a fire in me. My passion for running has grown beyond anything I had experienced prior to my VAD and strokes. Every run, every day is a true achievement. Even my worst days are a blessing and I am forever grateful. Look for me with the 4:45 sign; I'll be the one with the 'VAD-Ass' patch and a big, goofy smile on my face!

Julia Croteau

Julia is our pacer for 5:15 marathoners.

Maya Okada

Hi! My name is Maya Okada. I’ve been running on the Club Track Team at UCLA for two years, racing the mile, 5k, and 10k. I also am on the triathlon team at UCLA! I have run three half marathons with a pr of 1:22 and recently ran the 2026 Boston Marathon in 2:59! You can find me this summer running in Torrance or Lake Arrowhead with my mom! I love the community of friends and coaches running has given me. I’m so excited to help other runners reach their goals!

Tristan Snow

Tristan will be our 1:40 half marathon pacer.

Sequoia Ashby

Hi! I'm Sequoia, a rising 3rd year at UCLA studying mechanical engineering. I've been running competitively for 6 years now, with the last two on the UCLA club team. I love reading, Formula 1 racing, and board games. Earlier this year, I ran a 18:35 5K, and I ran a 1:39 half marathon four years ago when I was just 16 years old. I'm excited to pace you to your next best time or just to a fun race!

Karen Kidwell

Hi I'm Karen. I've been a runner for about 25 years and love it all: roads, trails, mountains, long distance, short distance, etc. Being outside is my favorite thing and endorphins are my second favorite. I'm a longtime pacer at the Humboldt Bay Half, everything from 1:40 up to 2:00 and train on the course regularly. I can't wait to share one of my favorite running spots with you and help you achieve your goals!

Caroline Carson

I am 64 and a long time Six Rivers Running Club member. I work full time as Ramone’s Bakery production manager. When I am not working, I am out running or biking, sometimes swimming and hiking. I love an adventure and trying new challenges . Happy to pace this half marathon to a 2:10 finish. Let’s do it!
 

Kristin Lane

Kristin Lane will be our 2:20 half marathon pacer.

Vacant

We are still looking for a 2:30 half marathon pacer.

Elizabeth Heinberger

I’m Biz and I love to pace!! I’ve run over 100 half marathons and love the new friends I make on the road and on the trail. Look out, first timers - you’ll get addicted to the magic of this sport and it gets pricy!!!