Candice Toney - 2024 Runner Stories

In 2012, I laced up my running shoes and ran my first race Rite Aid Marathon 5k. I had no idea that this race would be the starting point of a journey that would change my life forever. Back then, I never considered myself a runner, believing that my size defined my limits. Little did I know that runners come in all shapes and sizes, and I was about to discover my true potential. A year later, in 2013, I joined Black Girls Run! Cleveland, and everything changed. The support and camaraderie of the group fueled my passion for running. I found myself pushing beyond my comfort zone, participating in countless 5k, 10k, and even half marathons. In 2019, I accomplished my biggest feat yet, crossing the finish line of a full marathon.

However, the pandemic led to weight gain and a shift away from my passion for running. A wake-up call in 2023 prompted me to make significant lifestyle changes, shedding the extra pounds and reigniting my love for running. Now, I am registered and ready to participate in the Cleveland Marathon 5k, where it all began, as a celebration of my resilience and determination. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams, regardless of their size or shape. Running is for everyone.