Brian is a hometown guy that has lived in Salem for the past 49 years. His twin brother motivated him in 2013 to compete in his first 5k which was the Drumstick Dash. In 2016, Brian ran in the first Salem Half Marathon. He was super excited to hear that his hometown was hosting a half marathon! That day still holds a special place in his heart because not only was it his first half marathon, but his niece Lilly was born on the same day! Brian joined the C&C runners in 2016 and still is heavily involved in the group. “Marion Childress is such an inspiration and incredible person, joining the group is the best decision I have ever made.” Brian loves the family atmosphere of the group; it motivates him to keep striving for excellence every day. Running has been a life changer and a good social outlet for him. He would like to thank God who allows him to have this ability. Brian looks forward to seeing everyone training throughout the year and especially on race day!

I am an exercise physiologist and have a true passion for running. I love sharing that passion with others, especially those new to the sport. I have run my share of 5ks, 10ks, half marathons, marathons, and even the Blue Ridge double marathon. I have 2 wonderful kids and an amazing husband.

I was born and raised in Salem, VA and have always had a love of running. I grew up playing soccer and continued playing at Ferrum College for two years then eventually joined the cross country team. I met my husband through running and even ran a few ultra marathons together. I am a member of Upward Running Run Club and our local Run for God Roanoke team. Now married with two children, I know how hard it can be for moms to take time for themselves. I took many years off from running after having kids but recently got back into running regularly. I hope I can help inspire other moms to get out there! You can do hard things! I'm super excited to be an ambassador for such a great race and can't wait to see you out there in October!

I’m Dawn Parris! Wife, animal mama, and lover of the outdoors and running! Born and raised in Roanoke, Va. I’ve been in the running community for several years now and it’s the running community that keeps me coming back! I love all the encouragement and support we all offer one another and I have made some wonderful friendships throughout this journey. I’ve done numerous 5k’s, 10k’s, and half’s. Completed three marathons and I have dipped my toes in the triathlon world with a sprint distance as well as a 70.3. The Salem Half Marathon is one of my favorite races. I have done this race since 2019 and I am excited to have been chosen to be a 2025 ambassador for it. I love and hate the hills but it really is such a beautiful run and well supported race through Salem!

Monica is a board member for the Lynchburg Road Runners Club. She is a passionate runner who embraced running as a way to cope with life's challenges. She began participating in official races during her sophomore year of college and has been running consistently for the past several years. Monica trains 3-5 days a week during marathon season, balancing long runs and speed work, and enjoys road-based running as well as exploring local parks. Her dream is to run the Dopey Challenge at Disney World for her 30th birthday.