Passionate Cincinnati runner and community builder. Whether training for PRs or just logging miles together, I love using running to connect people and celebrate what makes the Flying Pig community special.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: Carmel Full Marathon, Frozen 10K, Queen Bee Half, FCC3

Playing through my headphones: Line of Sight by ODESZA, WYNNE, Mansionair

My race day must-have: Fuel, comfortable wearing gear, and the race day mindset

Who or what inspires you to keep going? Friends and Family, but most importantly myself. Any challenges forges you into the person you’re meant to be and become!

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Remember when there’s an uphill, there’s a downhill. Go into the race with a you versus you mentality!

I fell in love with running back in college and now it’s become my passion—I’m obsessed with the miles, the community, and the amazing friendships I’ve built along the way.

Favorite race distance: 5k or Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: In 2026, I’ll be racing Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky favorites—including the Heart Mini, Red Legs, and Hyde Park Blast—while also heading outside the area for events like the Columbus Marathon in the fall.

Playing through my headphones: Avicii’s The Nights—its energy and lyrics remind me to live fully and make every run count.

My race day must-have: FlipBelt, Sprints hat, and Honey Stinger gummies.

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My partner who never misses a race and always pushes me to keep going. His support at every finish line reminds me why I love running and motivates me to go the extra mile.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Enjoy every moment and soak it all in—the energy, the community, and the unforgettable Flying Pig experience, from the starting line excitement to the joy of crossing the finish. Most importantly, take pride in finishing one of the country’s premier running events.

Back-of-the-pack and proudly representing Black Girls Run!, I’m a Northern Kentucky mental health therapist who runs for joy, community, and the bling. I’m here to remind you that movement counts at every pace.

Favorite race distance: A fun 5K! They’re short, joyful, and full of good energy. I’m also down for the occasional half marathon for the challenge (and the BLING!)

Spot me in these races: All the Pig Works Races! Beer Series, Flying Pig weekend events, The Race, and Detroit Free Press Half marathon.

Playing through my headphones: Party Rock Anthem

My race day must-have: My free banana when I’m across the finish line!

Who or what inspires you to keep going? Everyone who shows up. Especially my back of the pack runners.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Breathe, trust your training, and have fun. Your race, your pace!

Annie Horn is the Executive Director of Girls on the Run of Greater Cincinnati, where she leads efforts to empower girls through evidence-based programming that builds confidence, physical and emotional health, and meaningful connection. She is married, a mom of two kiddos, and passionate about creating access and opportunity so every girl can recognize her strength and potential.

Favorite race distance: 5K

Spot me in these races: 5K, 10K

Playing through my headphones: I Am Here, by Pink

My race day must-have: A banana and cold water

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My two kids - They keep me grounded, make me laugh, and motivate me to be the best version of myself, even on the messy, imperfect days.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Show up! Have fun! Take in the race weekend vibes. You won't find a better showing of support throughout the city. It's truly a holiday!

I am a former collegiate swimmer turned triathlete with a soft spot for running. I cross train at F45 and have enjoyed lifting and expanding my fitness community!

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: IM Ohio 70.3, hopefully New York marathon, too.

Playing through my headphones: Alive by Krewella

My race day must-have: Precision Gels

Who or what inspires you to keep going? The entire running community. I love who I have met through running and just seeing everyone out there is so inspirational.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Enjoy the day! Race day is amazing and it's so much fun. Just soak in the experience.

I’m originally from Peru, and have lived in the Cincinnati area since 2013. I love running and Flying pig weekend is my favorite weekend of the year.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: Carmel marathon, Detroit marathon

Playing through my headphones: The Champion

My race day must-have: Cliff bar

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My wife

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Enjoy the great weekend!

I got bitten by “the running bug” in my mid-40’s with my first 5K in 2016. Next thing you know I’m running my first Pig half marathon in 2018. Since then, I’ve been so blessed to run in Boston, Chicago, and New York… but there’s only one place where Pigs Fly! Nobody does it like the ‘Nati, and I can’t wait to run my 3rd full Flying Pig in May!

Favorite race distance: The full marathon! No matter how much it hurts those last 5 miles… I just keep booking the next one!

Spot me in these races: The Cincinnati Cyclones 10K, The Heart Mini Half Marathon in March, all the Brew Hog races, and the Marine Corps Marathon in October 2026

Playing through my headphones: “Goodbye, Yesterday!” by Elevation Rhythm

My race day must-have: I know it sounds cheesy but mine would be: one pumped up, encouraging, “let’s go” conversation with another runner. Whether a friend, or a random person in the corral. It’s gotta happen!

Who or what inspires you to keep going? The journey. By the time we toe the line, we have worked so hard to train… hopefully with a family of fellow trainers. When you want to stop, you remember you’ve come this far for this moment. You remember you trained for this, trust it, embrace the pain, and keep putting one foot in front of the other!

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Get ready to see why this race was voted #1 by America recently. It’s a total vibe. With all the early hills, don’t go out too fast… don’t overthink the hills, keep steady, soak up the energy of the ‘Nati, and when you make that left turn onto Mehring Way before the stadiums… empty the tank to “The Finish Swine!”

I fell back in love with running in my 30’s and this will be my third Flying Pig Marathon, and fourth marathon overall. When I’m not running, I’m usually listening to music or have my nose in a book.

Favorite race distance: Marathon

Spot me in these races: Flying Pig Marathon, TQL Beer Series, and the Flying Pig 5K

Playing through my headphones: Any song by The Story So Far or Oasis

My race day must-have: Pre-race double espresso, headphones, and a good playlist.

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My family, friends, and music keep me motivated. Wanting to make them proud drives me forward, and music helps me push through the more strenuous workouts.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Enjoy your race day. It doesn't matter how fast you go because crossing that finish line after all your hard work is a feeling you'll never forget. Plus, no other city shows up like Cincinnati. It feels like you have the entire community cheering you on.

Christina Austin is a dedicated endurance athlete and community leader who is excited to serve as a Flying Pig Marathon Ambassador. As a kidney, liver, and egg donor, she uses running as a platform to celebrate resilience, generosity, and the incredible strength of the human body.

Favorite race distance: Marathon

Spot me in these races: 4 Way w/ Extra Cheese and Queen Bee

Playing through my headphones: Pink Pony Club

My race day must-have: An exciting and upbeat Spotify playlist!

Who or what inspires you to keep going? Every mile is proof of what my body and heart are capable of, especially after everything I have given to others. Running is where gratitude meets strength, and each step reminds me that I am still moving forward, still growing, and still capable of more than I imagine. I keep running because my story gives meaning to every stride.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Enjoy every second! Life is one big party but so is the Flying Pig Marathon.

Long distance runner from the 850 and 2026 Boston qualifier.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: Boston Marathon and Queen Bee Half

Playing through my headphones: Meek Mills Dreams and Nightmares

My race day must-have: Shokz headphones

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My progression as a runner and hitting PR's

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Keep grinding and never give up on your dreams

"I'd rather Wear Out than Rust Out" is my personal philosophy. I believe in celebrating life and all of the accomplishments!

Favorite race distance: Marathon

Spot me in these races: Kentucky Derby Festival Full Marathon

Playing through my headphones: "Acknowledge Me" - Prince

My race day must-have: My Superman race shirt with my kids' handprints in puffy paint on the back

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My Wife and Our 4 Children

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Enjoy every mile and all of the cheering that is going to come your way!

I am a Registered Nurse specialized in Vascular Surgery in Boise. I’m looking forward to being a 2026 Ambassador!

Favorite race distance: Ultramarathon

Spot me in these races: San Francisco Marathon, Bogus Basin 50k, and others TBD!

Playing through my headphones: You & Me by Max Styler

My race day must-have: Nerd clusters

Who or what inspires you to keep going? Showing up when it’s hard and pushing through for something bigger than myself.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Recovery is just as important as the training.

I find joy in movement, whether it’s running or training, and value how exercise fuels both my body and mindset. I believe consistency and self discipline create freedom within.

Favorite race distance: 5K

Spot me in these races: Flying Pig Half Marathon, Chicago Marathon, Capcity Half Marathon, First on the First, 5th Line 5K, Arnold 5K Pump & Run, Crooked Shillelagh 4miler, Columbus 10K, Ohio State 4MILER

Playing through my headphones: No Chains by KB

My race day must-have: Energy Gels and Hydration

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My daughter Nyza and my run community

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Start at a pace you're comfortable with. Trust that your training will take you to the finish line. Be patient with yourself because this is your moment.

Jasmine McCollum is a Cincinnati-based runner, scientist, and community builder known for blending performance, storytelling, and joy through running. She creates welcoming, high-energy spaces that celebrate movement, connection, and showing up as your fullest self—on race day and beyond.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: Queen Bee Half Marathon, Cincinnati Cyclones 10K, and Flying Pig 5K

Playing through my headphones: 4pm in Calabasas

My race day must-have: My headphones and my Garmin watch!

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My family!

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Trust your training, pace yourself early, and remember that every mile is part of the experience—not just the finish line. Feed off the energy of the crowd, stay present, and don’t forget to have fun—you earned this moment.

Avid runner and reader - one of my favorite past times is reading is reading my kindle during my Zone2 treadmill runs! I love every distance from the mile to 100 miles!

Favorite race distance: The Marathon! There's no distance quite like 26.2!

Spot me in these races: Big Beach Marathon, Louisville Triple Crown Races, Horse Capital Marathon (pacing) Carmel Marathon, Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon (pacing) and Hellbender 100... SO FAR. More to come, I'm sure!

Playing through my headphones: I actually prefer no music during my runs and workouts. There's a lot of science behind the mind-muscle connection. Big fan of the Stoic mindsets on quieting the mind. Slow is smooth, smooth is fast. Slow your mind to run faster.

My race day must-have: Flip belt compression shorts! All the pockets come in handy.

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My goal is to grow old with running. Lifelong health and wellness are built through daily acts like working out, running, quality sleep and eating well.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Come ready to enjoy this course! The crowd support is absolutely top notch and it's a wonderful experience to soak in. Cincy knows how to put on a great race!

Owner of the Originalitees clothing brand, former Indiana University Women’s Basketball player, Co-Founder of Run United, and a runner with Black Girls Run.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: The Race (ATL) and Pig Works events

Playing through my headphones: Swag Surfin’ by F.L.Y.

My race day must-have: Electrolytes (Salt Stick) & Jelly Belly Sports Beans

Who or what inspires you to keep going? Me vs. me. I’m a team player, but when it comes to this, it’s really about pushing myself and showing up better than I did yesterday. Every step is about getting better.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Set personal goals that work for you and find a walking or running group if you can. Doing it with others keeps you motivated and helps you push through the tough days. After a few weeks or even in the beginning, sign up for a race or challenge that fits your abilities so you have something to work toward. Then go get it. Remember, it’s you vs you not the person next to you.

Laura is a mother of three, a middle school English teacher, and an avid runner. You’ll often find her pushing her disabled 12-year old son in Flying Pig and Queen Bee races.

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon (although I also really love a fast mile!)

Spot me in these races: Queen Bee Half and some races of various distances with Ainsley’s Angels

Playing through my headphones: Running up that Hill

My race day must-have: Sparkles, Belvita breakfast biscuits, and themed outfits with friends! My racing stroller also has a pretty awesome pig horn on it.

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My 12-year-old son who demonstrates perseverance and positivity better than anyone I know.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: You can do anything you set your mind to. (And save some energy for the hills!)

I'm a 6-year-old German Shepherd mix and I bring joy and energy wherever I go! I love exploring, sprinting after my favorite toys (with occasional “zoomies”), catching a nap, and proudly serving as the shop dog for my dad’s business and the gym dog at CrossFit on the River. I will run the Flying Fur for the fifth time in 2026 with my wagging tail and big heart.

Favorite race distance: A couple of miles, maybe? I like short distances—unless there’s a squirrel or I get the zoomies!

Spot me in these races: I will run the Flying Fur for the fifth time in 2026. My mom will run the TQL Beer Series, The Flying Pig Half Marathon, The FCC3, and The Queen Bee 4-Miler

Playing through my headphones: I usually have to listen to my mom's mix of 90's and 00's music.

My race day must-have: My harness, leash, and a fancy bandana.

Who or what inspires you to keep going? I’m a rescue pup, and I’m here to show the world how awesome shelter dogs and mutts can be. I love second chances, belly rubs, and making new friends.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Bring one of my 4-legged friends and run the Flying Fur!

In November of 2020 I lost my ability to walk due to health problems. With physical therapy and determination, I regained my ability to walk and am now a pig abilities athlete. I am passionate about advocating for people with disabilities and for the need of inclusion.

Favorite race distance: PigAbilities -1 Mile

Spot me in these races: PigAbilities, Heart Mini, NAMI walk, Cincinnati Children's walk

Playing through my headphones: Overcomer by Mandisa

My race day must-have: A cuddle with my dog Cali and a ice cold Coca Cola!

Who or what inspires you to keep going? Proving my hardwork of learning to walk again can show others you can inspire others with telling your story.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: It doesn't matter how fast you go. Have fun, and get to the finish line!

I am a student at University of Cincinnati and a member of their adaptive track & field team. I have done adaptive athletics for a little over 2 years and have done many races like the flying pig 10k. I love being active and spreading awareness of the spinal cord injury (SCI) community.

Favorite race distance: 10K

Spot me in these races: Flying Pig 10K, Bluegrass 10K, and some Girls On the Run races

Playing through my headphones: Anything upbeat

My race day must-have: Water & pickle juice

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My mom

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Just have fun!

A resident of Charlotte, NC, I am a 24-time marathoner including two Flying Pigs. I previously had the pleasure of serving as a Pig Works Ambassador in 2023 and am excited to return! I am also a type 1 diabetic of 27 years and a physician assistant in endocrinology.

Favorite race distance: Full Marathon

Spot me in these races: Grindstone 100K by UTMB, Charlotte Marathon

Playing through my headphones: I love all genres so it depends on the day, but I’ll often go without music even on hours-long runs.

My race day must-have: Race morning is incomplete without my oatmeal and a Honey Stinger waffle.

Who or what inspires you to keep going? As a type 1 diabetic, running has been a means to motivate other diabetics to reach their goals, no matter how lofty. When it feels difficult to keep going, I am motivated by all those T1Ds I represent and for whom I run.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Flying Pig weekend is not just about racing the time on the clock; it’s a celebration! Don’t forget to have fun on race day and take in the whole experience!

My name is Paige Long and I am an Ohio-native whose life has been changed by running. I’m excited to get to support, encourage, and cheer you on through your adventure with the Pig Works events!

Favorite race distance: Half Marathon

Spot me in these races: Great Guernsey Trail Spring Race, - Firecracker 10K, Zanesville Half Marathon, Nationwide Children’s Marathon & Race for Grace

Playing through my headphones: Doses & Mimosas - Cherub

My race day must-have: Glitter!!!!!

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My grandma inspires me to keep going, she is so strong and has battled through some really hard things in life (breast cancer being one of those things). She still manages to see life with a glass-half full mentality and makes the most out of each and every day she has. I’m encouraged by her grit and tenacity.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Embrace the journey, trust in your training, and take it a mile at a time. The marathon is the celebration for all of the hard work and energy you’ve put into training, you can and will do this!

We are two little piggies representing Prissy and Pops Helping Hooves animal sanctuary in Florida. Prissy will be celebrating her 13th birthday at the Flying Pig weekend.

Favorite race distance: The shorter the better

Spot me in these races: Flying Fur

Playing through my headphones: I’m a Happy Little Piglet

My race day must-have: Snacks

Who or what inspires you to keep going? Our rescued farm friends

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: If you had fun, you won!

I am a proud midsize runner and athlete. I run to prove to myself I can do hard things that I didn’t use to think were possible.

Favorite race distance: Half marathon because it’s easier 🤪

Spot me in these races: TBD

Playing through my headphones: HOT TO GO!- Chapell Roan

My race day must-have: anti chafe

Who or what inspires you to keep going? Thinking about how far I’ve come and wanting to see how good it can get for me.

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Have fun and feel all of the emotions! You’ve already put in all the work. Your race is the victory lap!

I decided I wanted to run a marathon ever since I watched my mom run Boston - now I’m addicted to them! When I’m not running, I’m working as a veterinarian, reading, or scuba diving.

Favorite race distance: Marathon

Spot me in these races: The Steel City 12 hour, Queen Bee Half, Columbus Marathon, and hopefully a Backyard Ultra!

Playing through my headphones: Anything by The Chicks

My race day must-have: Nerd gummy clusters!!

Who or what inspires you to keep going? The Hamilton running club - love seeing everyone hit their goals and motivates me to work towards mine!

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Train hills until your legs are noodles…then keep training hills!

Flying since 1999.

Favorite race distance: Marathon

Spot me in these races: Every Pig Works race!

Playing through my headphones: "Learning to Fly"

My race day must-have: High fives

Who or what inspires you to keep going? The crowd and our amazing city!

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Just one hoof in front of the other - you got this!

Avid marathoner that loves the community that comes with this sport. When I'm not running, I can be found walking my dog, hiking, or baking cookies.

Favorite race distance: Half or Full Marathon

Spot me in these races: Chicago Shamrock Shuffle, Oktoberfest 14k, New York City Marathon, Philadelphia Half Marathon, and TQL Beer Series!

Playing through my headphones: Anything Taylor Swift or Lady Gaga

My race day must-have: Injinji socks

Who or what inspires you to keep going? My friends and family

My advice for future Pig Works race participants: Have fun and enjoy the crowd support!