2026 Air Force Marathon Ambassadors 

Sid Busch

Sid Busch, retired SCPO, USN. Served on Submarines. Have completed 206 Marathons and many half marathons,10ks and 5ks.I continue to dedicate all my races  to honor a member of the military who has given their life in defense of our freedom. I give my medal, shirt and bib to the families as my way of showing them their loss has not gone unnoticed.

I have been participating in the AFM WEEKEND, since 2006 as both a volunteer and participant. I am 80 now, but I continue to do 5ks and 10ks to honor FALLEN HEROES.

Gina Forestieri

As a former Air Force wife, a mom to an active duty son (navy) and veteran son (coast guard), and a volunteer at the local USO at the airport, the Military has always shared an important part of my life! If I had it to do over again, I would have enlisted and would retire from the Air Force, but when I graduated, the military wasn’t really anything any woman in my small town thought of.

I am a later life runner.  At almost 62 years old (and many injuries due to running) I have not given up.  I ran my first half in 2009 and loved it, but broke my kneecap in 2 only a couple weeks later.  At the advice of Drs I did not run another race.  By 2016, I did a half and survived!  I have tried other activities, and nothing quite takes the place of running!!  I went from doing a half marathon in every state (and now currently on half # 135) to hoping to finish up a MARATHON in every state by this December, I said I would not repeat any states until I finished incase I injure myself, BUT I did re-register this year for the Air Force Marathon (I did it my first time in Sept 2025) . . . along with re-registering to do the Marine Corp Marathon again this year.  I also registered this year for the Coast Guard Marathon in NC and am hoping to complete all the military runs!  For my first marathon at Disney in 2018 broke my foot at mile 8. I walked the last 18 miles AND came back the next year to run it fully!  After training hard (too hard) and sure I’d BQ at the Chicago Marathon in 2019, I hurt my hip and had to drop a couple weeks before the race.  I unfortunately gave up on 26.2 at that point and focused on just half marathons until July of 2024, I thought, well, I’ll try a marathon again . . .  since then I have been working so hard and traveling so many places to finish up my goal of a marathon in every state.

I will never be the fastest or the best, but running allows me to better myself and my only real competition is what I put upon myself.  Running allows me to do something I love and hopefully inspire other people.  I don’t now what my “goals” will be, but hopefully I can just keep running.

Joe “Newt Dawg” Newton

Joe is a retired Airman with nearly three decades of service in the United States Air Force. His enthusiasm for running began in high school with cross-country and continued throughout his career. He primarily participated in 5K races in the U.S. and South Korea before completing his first half marathon, the Air Force Half Marathon, in 2008. Since then, he has completed over 70 marathons and half marathons across the United States and Europe. Newt has been a dedicated advocate for The Air Force Marathon since 2008 and has served as an informal ambassador since 2019. Use MILESWITHJOE for 10 percent off registration.

Azsure Alderson

Running has become such a meaningful part of my life. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. I’ve been running for over 10 years, and what started as a way to stay active has grown into a passion for pushing limits and doing hard things. I’ve embraced this season as my “me era,” focusing on growth, goals, and stepping outside my comfort zone. From hiking Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim in the Grand Canyon to completing numerous half marathons, a 50K, and several 25Ks, I’ve learned we are capable of so much more than we think. The Air Force Marathon will be my fifth marathon.
I’m currently training for the marathon while also taking on a new challenge, my first half Ironman relay, where I’ll be swimming the 1.2-mile leg on June 7th. This year, I’ve embraced the idea of a “Misogi”, doing something that pushes me beyond my limits. Not just for personal growth, but to motivate and inspire others to take on their own challenges. One of the things I’m most proud of is encouraging my husband to take on his first marathon—he’ll be running 26 in 2026. As an active duty Guard member at Whiteman, being part of the Air Force Marathon community makes this experience even more meaningful for our family. I love connecting with others who are chasing big goals and encouraging people to start where they are, stay consistent, and believe they’re capable of far more than they think.

Dan Oh

Dan Oh is a seasoned marathoner, Ironman finisher, and dedicated health professional. Half-retired from a successful career in tax consulting, Dan now brings a new focus to healing—holding a doctoral degree in Eastern Medicine and licenses to practice in both New York and Maryland. He is currently preparing to open his holistic practice in Northern New Jersey, where he hopes to serve the local community through balance-driven, preventative care. Dan began running in his early 50s as a way to overcome diabetes. What started as a health journey quickly turned into a deep passion, taking him through trail marathons, ultramarathons, triathlons, and races around the world. He has completed marathons in all 50 states, conquered the Six World Marathon Majors, and proudly earned the title of Ironman. The 2025 Air Force Marathon will mark his 315th marathon. Though he runs for his health, Dan understands the challenges every runner faces. As an ambassador, he’s passionate about helping others stay strong, injury-free, and connected to the joy of the sport through the principles of Eastern medicine and lifelong endurance.

Ramzy Sanchez

Ramzy Sanchez is current instructor at Patrick Space Force Base, and double Purple Heart recipient whose journey into running was shaped by resilience and adaptation. After undergoing a life-changing surgery in May of 2025, he was unable to lift weights, something that had always been a core part of his training and identity. Faced with the choice to stop training altogether or find a new path forward, he chose to adapt. What started as simple walking gradually turned into running, and over time, evolved into a consistent and life-changing habit. Running became more than just physical training, it became a tool for discipline, mental clarity, and long-term growth.

Scott Reed

Scott is married to his wife Christy of almost 24 years and they have 2 kids, Connor who just graduated Cooper HS and is attending UC Blue Ash for Vet Sciences and Quinn who is starting her Freshmen year at Cooper and has a passion for dance.  Scott is starting his 22 year in education as a band director and 4th at Jones MS in Boone County Kentucky.  As far as running goes, Scott got into running for health and discovered a whole amazing community of people who will support you in your highs and lows.  Getting to meet so many people from all over the world who share an interest has been tremendous!  This year will be Scott’s first Air Force Half Marathon in what he hopes is many events to come! Follow on Instagram @sdreed77.

Kierstin Williams

Running didn’t find me at my best, it founded me when I needed it most. I didn’t have the easiest or greatest childhood and was looking for a way to release all of that. I had read the correlation between endurance sports and trauma survivors and decided to lace up a pair of shoes. Running became my safe space, it helped me heals in more ways than one. It taught me to show up for myself and became my way back home to myself. Mile after mile, I fell back in love with who I am and had a thirst to go father and farther.

Jesikah Jones

Jesikah, just a woman trying to better herself. From what started as just a simple, let’s become healthier has turned into a passion to inspire people that no matter what; you can do the hard thing. Don’t stop till you’re proud and remember One Stride, One Breath, and One Day at a Time.

Yuly Moreno

I am a passionate endurance athlete and entrepreneur based in Dayton, Ohio. As the founder of a local business and a dedicated mother, I find my strength and balance through running. I am currently training for my next half-marathon and love sharing my journey to inspire others in the community to stay active and reach their goals. I’m honored to represent the 30th Anniversary of the Air Force Marathon!

Justin Barao

Justin Barao is the Quality Assurance Superintendent at the 515th Air Mobility Operations Group, Yokota Air Base, Japan. He enlisted in the Air Force in January 2006, and his background includes various duties in the Aircraft Maintenance career field and Contingency Response functions. He is married to Lean and have 3 daughters (Leah Jazmine – 17, Justine Louise – 15, and Mikayla Junae – 12) as well as 2 fur babies (Levi and Chanel). In May 2025, Justin Barao survived a life-threatening gastrointestinal bleed after several days of unknowingly losing blood internally. He collapsed alone at home, losing consciousness multiple times before finding the strength to get outside, where he was eventually found and rushed for emergency treatment. He required blood transfusion and intensive care, followed by a challenging recovery that impacted him both physically and mentally. That experience became a turning point. Once cleared for physical activity, Justin made the decision to take control of his health and his future. He turned to running as a way to rebuild his strength, discipline, and purpose. Through consistent training, he has lost over 35 pounds and continues to use running as a tool to improve both his physical and mental well-being, as well as committing every day to becoming better than he was before.
Since completing his first marathon, Justin has already inspired others in his community to take better care of themselves and begin their own running journeys. He is currently training for the Air Force Marathon with a goal of achieving a significant personal best, while continuing to grow as a runner. Beyond his personal journey, Justin serves as an Executive Board Member for the Yokota Striders Running Club, helping support large-scale community races that bring together runners from both U.S. and Japanese communities and foster a culture of connection, health, and resilience. As an Air Force Marathon Ambassador, Justin hopes to continue inspiring others to take that “first step”, push beyond their limits, and realize that it’s never too late to change the direction of their life.

Michael Tummings

Running consistently for 10+ years and have completed 2 USAF Full-Marathons along with numerous half-marathons, 15, 10, and 5k’s along with volunteering on race morning for over 10+ years at the USAF Marathon each year.  Love to inspire others to get moving—especially those who may need a little encouragement to take that first step, whether it’s via running or walking.  Believes it’s never too late to start and is passionate about helping others stay strong.

Bailey Moore

My name is Bailey Moore, I am 22 and I am a registered nurse! I started running when I was 11 years old and ran track all throughout high school. Crazy part is I was a sprinter all throughout my track career! I decided to start running long distances one day for fun and haven’t turned back since! I run with my twin sister Addy. We will be running the Air Force marathon for the 3rd year in a row this year and we do many other races throughout the year. Our bucket list race this year is the Honolulu Marathon in Oahu Hawaii! We will be running that in December!

Steven Youngkin

I am 56 years old from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.  Prior to running in 2017, I used to weigh 421 pounds.  I ended up getting bariatric surgery and started running as a way to keep the weight off after surgery.  My first 5K was in 2017 and I loved the running community so I did another and then another after that.  I ended up doing my first marathon, the New York City Marathon, in 2018 and enjoyed that and did more.  Because my girlfriend’s father, Chief Master Sgt John Puckett, was in the Air Force for close to 20 years, I ran the Air Force Fly/Fight/Win Challenge in 2022 and have been running the races each year since then.  Since 2017, I have ran 519 races including 214 5K races, 78 half marathons and 27 marathons. I look forward to running the Aim High Challenge in 2026 in honor of him and all the other men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country.

Wilfred “Willie” De Guzman

Why I run….People ask me why I run so much…..I start running around late 2012, when I collapse in my place due to stress, high BP and cholesterol…my doctor advise me to do some exercise, at that time I have been doing strength training but not much cardio workout. So one day I start taking 15 min walk during my break time everyday and on my day off walk 20-30 minutes in the park. One day I saw a 5K flyer, I signed up and start searching the net for 5k beginners training. So I follow the training program, its hard at first but I remember that you listen to your body , so I did not follow much what the training said I used it as a guide for my adjusted training plan…1 min run 1 min walk. On my first 5K i finished it at 45 min, not bad less than hour, but starts training slow and notice some changes on my body and starts adjusting my training. I signed up for more 5K and see how I am doing with my run, it’s an improvement but not much. Along my races I met some runners and get some tips and info. Then thanks to Oliver Tabamo and Sonny Almonte, friends and also runners from my church start giving me some running tips. I start challenging my self, I like challenges like my friend Steven Olavarria….who I also met on one of the races, so i moved to 10K, 15K and my first Half marathon in LB and will do Full Marathon next year at LA. From then on I felt great, energize and feel young @ 20 as I demonstrated yesterday when I joined our youth dance group who are half of my age in a praise dance that is even after my race….haha. So I praise God for my good health, energy and stamina and feeling young again and now I also maintain a good BP and Cholesterol level without taking medicine anymore.

Reggie Henderson

When I began my running journey, we had just PCS’d to Colorado.  Always active with 4 kid’s and 1 who was still at home, I started running around the neighborhood.  I never loved to run as my main sports growing up were basketball and softball.  My feet always hurt.  Long story short, I found shoes that actually felt great and started to enjoy my neighborhood runs.  A friend ended up gifting me their bib to a half marathon due to an injury.  The furthest I’ve ran was 8 miles but I was like, “Cool.  I can do that”.  Can I just say, RUNNER’S HIGH…lol.  Yep.  I caught the bug and after my very first race I went home and told my husband that I was going to run MARATHONS in every state.  Now it’s MARATHONS or ULTRAS in every state.  The running community is amazing.   Inclusive,  supportive, caring and one where I’ve made friends for life.

Being a wife of a retired airman who served 21 years, the AF marathon was the ONLY choice for me.  My husband and I were actually going to run this in 2018, but the morning of the marathon,  as we were turning into the parking area, a car crashed into us at 60 mph.  We were both, miraculously unhurt, but we weren’t able to run.  I proudly run this year’s race for my husband, for military families, for the spouses that served BTS (iykyk), and, especially for all my family members who served in the military like my husband (father – Coast Guard, father in law – USAF, brothers/sister – Army, USAF, USMC, nephews – Army).

Cailey Gac

I started running on and off in 2018 as a way to lose weight. When I picked it back up again in 2023, that was still my goal—but I never imagined it would turn into something so much bigger. Running has become something I truly love, and it’s played a huge role in my mental healing, especially after the loss of our second daughter in 2021. In 2024, I ran my first half marathon at the Air Force Marathon in Dayton, Ohio, and it was an unforgettable experience. I’m so excited to be back again this year as an ambassador—it truly means so much to me. The Air Force has always been a big part of my life. I grew up a military brat with my dad serving and retiring from the Air Force, alongside several uncles. Now, I’m proud to be married to an Air Force serviceman as well. Running has become more than just miles for me—it’s strength, healing, and purpose.

Patrick Hollingsworth

I’m a marathon runner, Air Force Security Forces member, and fitness advocate who believes discipline can transform your life. I started running as a way to challenge myself mentally and physically, and it quickly became part of who I am. Over the years I’ve completed multiple half marathons and full marathons while balancing military service, family life, and a full-time career. Running has taught me resilience, consistency, and the importance of showing up even when it’s hard. Whether I’m training for a race, pushing through early morning miles, or helping others start their fitness journey, my goal is to lead by example and inspire people to push beyond their limits. Through my platform and community, Disciplined Underdogs, I encourage everyday people—especially beginners—to believe that progress comes from discipline, not perfection.

Hugh Palmer

My name is Hugh Palmer and I am a Master Sergeant in the USAF. I began my long-distance running journey in December 2025, driven by a promise to myself that 2026 would be a year of embracing discomfort and committing to growth. What started as a challenge quickly became a personal mission to push beyond my limits. Since then, I have shaved over eight minutes off my 5k time, proving that progress is always possible with the right mindset. Running has strengthened my discipline, supported my fitness goals, and connected me to a meaningful community. So have managed to share stories with people within the local community to reassure that running is a sport that is YOU vs YOU. Constantly progressing to be a better version of yourself every time you train. My long-term goal is to run a World Major marathon alongside my wife while setting the example for my three daughters that anything is achievable through commitment and belief.

Kimber Nettis

Kimber Nettis is a Lt Col in the US Air Force currently stationed in Waco Texas as the AFROTC Detachment Commander. She has ran over 23 half marathons and one full marathon and inspires others to sign up and challenge themselves. The Air Force Marathon holds a special place in her heart because of the unique heritage it offers. The memorial mile features Capt Brandon Cyr who was a dear friend that died in combat and who inspired Lt Col Nettis on her running journey. She is married to Michael Nettis and they have one son, Donny.

Kevin Bittenbender

I retired from the U.S. Army with 34 years of service with the rank of  Sergeant Major. I began my service as a Forward Observer with the Field Artillery, the transitioned with Air Defense, Infantry and then as an Intelligence Analyst with Military Intelligence.  I currently compete with the U.S. Para-Skeleton with. Team USA and finished 3rd overall in this year’s Para Skeleton Legacy Tour. I’m an avid handcyclist and have competed the Armed Forces challenge averaging at least 10 running events every year.  I’m a volunteer firefighter (Captain) and EMT with the Clinton Township Volunteer Fire Company. Married to Molly for 32 years and a daughter , Kaitlyn.  Currently reside in Central Pennsylvania with my service dog Kirby.

Jasmine Moore

Hello, my name is Jasmine Moore. I began my running journey at the age of 9 as a member of my local YMCA track team, where I developed a lifelong passion for the sport. I continued running through junior high and high school, building a strong foundation that would later bring me back to the running community. About five years ago, I rediscovered running through local races, and quickly fell in love with the energy, support, and camaraderie within the running community. Since then, I have progressed from 5Ks to 10Ks, and on to longer distances, completing my first half marathon at the USAF Marathon in 2022 and my first full marathon in 2024. Running has become a source of both physical and mental strength for me. I value the sense of peace and accomplishment it brings, and I am passionate about inspiring others to start their own journey whether on the pavement, trail, or treadmill. I truly believe that health is wealth, and I am honored to represent and encourage others as an Ambassador of USAF Marathon.

Alexis West

I’m a stay-at-home mom of two amazing kids, ages 7 and 4. After years in the corporate world(Marketing), I chose to focus on being present for this season of life. I’ve been a dedicated runner for over 15 years and love staying active in different ways. There is something so special about the running community! When I’m not on the move, you’ll usually find me in the kitchen baking something sweet. Cake pops and Decorated Sugar cookies are my specialty!

Addyson Moore

I’ve been running since I was very young, competing as a sprinter and hurdler through college at Wittenberg University. After graduating, I stepped outside my comfort zone and found a new passion in distance running. I also currently coach middle school track and field. Running continues to push me and keep me grounded, and I’m proud to represent perseverance and community as an Air Force Marathon ambassador.

Troy Fisher

In 2011 I was 50lb overweight, smoked a pack of cigarettes a day and had to sleep on a CPAP machine. I was only in my late 30s when I realized I needed to change my life. Later that year I joined a gym and fell in love! In 2013 I opened Troy Fisher’s House of Pain Personal Training where for the last 13 years, I have helped over 1200 people lose over 40,000 pounds! I also love to compete. I am a 7 time Ironman and a 5 time Trifecta in the Spartan Race Series. I have been married to my very supportive and amazing wife for over 30 years and I have 3 wonderful adult children.

Tailwind

Meet Tailwind —the official hype bird of the Air Force Marathon! He love cheering, dancing, and helping runners feel unstoppable. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just chasing the finish line, He will be there flapping, dancing, and bringing nonstop energy from start to finish. Catch him on the course handing out high-fives, smiles, and a little extra ‘tailwind’ to get you across that line strong!