2025 SHE RUNS PARTICIPANT REKIA SMILEY

“Losing my mother to diabetes changed the direction of my life. It pushed me to confront my own health and make choices that would give me a future she didn’t get to have. Over time, I lost more than 220 pounds, not just to change my body, but to fight for my health and reclaim my strength. 

What surprised me most was that the physical transformation was only part of the story. As I kept going, I realized I was gaining something even more powerful: mental strength. Every step, every choice, every moment of discipline built a version of me who believed in herself more deeply than ever before. That inner strength became the foundation for everything that came next. 

That’s why I signed up for a half marathon — not because I needed to prove anything to anyone else, but because it represented a personal victory. It was a way of saying, ‘I’m still here. I’m still fighting. And I’m stronger than I’ve ever been.’ Crossing that finish line wasn’t just about the race; it was about honoring my mother, honoring my journey, and honoring the woman I’ve become.”

The Moms Who Run Club (MWRC) experience

The Moms Who Run Club (MWRC)–Maggie, Kat, Kelli, Katie, Mariah, and Abrah–is a group of moms who met via their kids’ school. They have built a run club community that supports each other through their love for running! Here, they share their story of the impact that She Runs GR has had on them as runners as well as mothers.

“She Runs GR holds a special place in our hearts; it was our very first official group run back in 2023. At the time, the race took place in April, and what started as a simple birthday wish from one of the moms, ‘let’s all run a 5k together,’ became something much more meaningful. For many of us, it was our first race. There was some hesitation at first, especially from those who had never considered themselves runners. But discovering that it was an all-women’s race created a sense of comfort, encourag… about She Runs GR. In 2025, a few of us found ourselves running alongside a pacer, Katie Byler, throughout the race her energy was contagious. She uplifted everyone around her, offering encouragement, keeping the pace steady, and making the miles feel lighter and more fun. We had decided to stick with her for the rest of the race; she offered the kind of encouragement that carries you farther than you thought you could go, and it made the day!
Outside of the official run club participation in She Runs GR over the last 3 years, some members of the MWRC have participated in prior years, even dating back to the Gazelle Girl days! Although the majority of running races also have great energy and community, there is something incredibly empowering and special about an all-women’s race.”