2026-2027 AMBASSADORS

I’m Ajok Ajok, also known as AJ, a San Diego–based Marine Corps veteran and an evolving runner who proudly embraces being a beginner in the sport. I started running less than a year ago, and through consistency and discipline, I’ve already logged over 2,000 miles and completed dozens of races, including 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and full marathons. For me, running is a continuous journey of growth—where progress happens over time, one step at a time.

I run because it’s one of the purest sports there is. What you put into it is exactly what you get out of it. That principle has helped me build not only physical endurance, but also mental strength, discipline, accountability, and a deeper sense of purpose. Running has become a space where I challenge myself, grow, and stay grounded.

Over the past several months, I’ve documented my journey to share the reality of starting from scratch and improving along the way. In doing so, I’ve had the opportunity to inspire and encourage friends, followers, and fellow runners to begin their own journeys. I’ve also had the privilege of running races alongside others and crossing finish lines together—embodying the Marine Corps value of “no man left behind.”

As someone who started as a beginner and is still learning, I understand the challenges, doubts, and barriers that come with lacing up for the first time. That’s why I’m passionate about connecting with a community that strives to be better and supporting others from their very first step all the way to the finish line.

@itsajok_

I’ve been a member of the Irving Running Club for the past two years and have been a pacer for the Irving Marathon series.

@stridesandstamps

RunIrving was my first half marathon and first full marathon. Distance running will always be one of my passions, but I now enjoy logging miles with my favorite running buddy riding in a stroller.

@simply_amberina

I am a 28 year old Venezuelan American. I was born and raised in Venezuela, and then left my home-country at 18 years old. I lived in Russia and England before I relocated to the US, where I started my studies. I pursued a career in Marketing and graduated with honors from the University of Houston and I then moved to Dallas for work 3 years ago. I currently work in the Communications department of a Commercial Packaging company. In my free time I love to go to the gym, create content, watch movies/tv shows, go thrifting, and spend time with family/friends.

@anayrisnarvaez

I’m a Dallas-based yoga instructor and runner who is passionate about helping people feel more connected to movement and wellness. I tore both of my ACLs in high school, so being a runner today is something I take a lot of pride in. Running has become a way for me to challenge myself, build confidence, and prove that my past injuries don’t define what I’m capable of. What started as a personal fitness journey has grown into a love for building community through yoga, running, and outdoor activities. I’m currently training for my first marathon at the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon while raising funds for Bras for Girls, an organization that helps girls stay active through access to sports bras and mentorship. Whether I’m teaching a yoga class or training for my next race, I love encouraging others to challenge themselves, try something new, and discover what they’re capable of.

@dear.ashley__

Hello! My name is Britney, I’m a wife, a mom, streamer, content creator, and of course a RUNNER! I’ve always been a runner my entire life, I started out in Middle school, then continued in high school! Fun fact my husband and I met through running in high school and we’ve been together ever since! I stream on twitch and most of my community has been apart of my running/ weight loss journey and they love to see all the races/ medals I get and they would love to join as well! I always tell them I want to do a giveaway someday for them to come run a race with me but some of them are out of the country! I love to be with my little family, I love to dance, and make people laugh. I am on the shy side at times but I sure can get the party going if you need me to! I love to travel, I love to run and compete against my husband when we do 5Ks (even though he is way faster than me). I love to encourage people, I also have my bachelors degree in Psychology. I’ve always known I wanted to help people overcome their problems or traumas, or even just listen to people when they need someone!

@britlongoria32

I’m a passionate runner from the Dallas–Fort Worth area who enjoys challenging myself and encouraging others to live an active lifestyle. Running has become an important part of my life, teaching me discipline, resilience, and the value of showing up consistently.

Outside of running, I enjoy creating content, connecting with people, and supporting local running events. I’m currently training toward new race goals and look forward to continuing to grow within the running community.

@claudia_ivethF

I am currently a Certified Surgical Tech/OrthoSpine coordinator. Taking care of people is my life’s work. Servitude. Running is my passion. Running has been apart of my life since I was younger. Road racing became more prevalent within the last decade.

@deb.campbell_

Dr. Christal-Joy “Dr. C” Turner is an educator, researcher, community advocate, and distance runner based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with a concentration in Research, Measurement, and Statistics and is passionate about helping others achieve their academic and personal goals.

Outside of her professional work, Dr. C has transformed her life through running after losing over 150 pounds. Since beginning her running journey in October 2025, she has completed over 30 races across Texas, Louisiana, Georgia and uses her platform to inspire runners of all ages, abilities, and body types to believe that running is for everyone. She is a proud Honey Stinger Ambassador and has been featured by Saucony and NBC Community for sharing her running journey and encouraging others through authenticity and perseverance.

Giving back is central to who she is. Dr. C has mentored young women through Girls Inc. of Tarrant County, volunteers with Mission Arlington, serves on the American Red Cross North Texas Region Advisory Board, and is the founder of The Bridge by H.O.P.E. Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding educational opportunities and strengthening communities.

Whether she’s teaching, volunteering, or training for her next race, Dr. C believes in leading by example and showing others that consistency, resilience, and community can transform lives.

@drcruns

Mom, triathlete, and community run leader. I organize City Run to raise awareness for spinal cord injuries and lead with RunDFW building spaces where movement meets purpose.

@____.ggx

I am the founder of the Lake Cities Run Walk Group & The Heartbeat Connection - Fitness + Community group. As a runner of 40+ years, some say it is my passion. However, I feel my passion is in helping others in their journey in running or fitness in general. I am a Master Trainer and running Coach with over 12 Certifications in various health/fitness areas and over 45 years of experience in the health/fitness industry. I have a STRONG belief that fitness should be affordable/free and available for all. For me, there is no greater joy than seeing that person doing their FIRST race, crossing that finish line and seeing their face as they accept that medal! GLORIOUS! I strive to help people experience that, at every race!
#jointhemovement

@graceisarunner

My name is Jamie! I started my running journey alongside my son 2024. We started out just wanting to try something new to stay in shape and healthy, and it became so much more. I have run over 20 races in my journey, including 2 half marathons and 1 full marathon and I've been blessed to be surrounded by such inspiring people along the way supporting me through it all! My goal is to continue to be an example for my son, and be as active as I can for as long as I can!

@jamie_allofthevibes

Jas Kirk is a visionary strategist, cultural architect, and elite media operator who builds spaces where business performance and human wellness thrive together. As the Founder and CEO of JKLW, she has built a premier marketing and media firm that translates organizational complexity into grounded direction, high-impact partnerships, and sustainable community infrastructure. Her work is anchored in a definitive ethos: that well-being is not a luxury alternative to success, but the very foundation required to sustain it.

Jas’ professional pedigree is defined by exceptional commercial results and rare cross-industry fluency. She has generated $25 million in corporate revenue, secured a quarter-million dollars in strategic sponsorships, and executed over 150 elite brand partnerships. Her true genius lies in her ability to collapse boundaries between disparate spaces; she seamlessly brings Fortune 500 executives, creative leaders, and grassroots community organizers to the exact same table to unlock hidden resources and expand cultural reach.

A master storyteller, Jas has engineered over 75 transformative, high-production digital campaigns and community experiences. Her forward-facing media work shapes broader culture through her acclaimed podcast, Comfortable Conversations, where she positions discomfort not as something to avoid, but as the ultimate catalyst for human growth, maturity, and systemic change.
Her relentless professional drive is equally mirrored in her fierce physical discipline. Ultimately, Jas doesn’t just advise on alignment, she models it. She brings an unmistakable, soulful presence to every room she enters, crafting urgent, personal narratives that inspire people to invest their time, their capital, and their belief into missions that matter.

@jasskirk

38 years old. Mom of 2. Coach, manager, sales and marketing background with pro soccer teams. I coach cross country and soccer. Hablo español.

@Joh.anna5

I love running because it has helped me stay focused. It taught me that anything is possible especially when you put in the work and have faith in God. I started my run journey in 2024. Since then I finished the past 2 years with at least 20 races each, including the NYC Marathon which I won a bib through Strava and Run It Up Dallas. I'm looking forward to achieving more goals for the rest of 2026.

@Jmoneylester

I been running since high school and college and I love to share my passion to other people that want to join the movement with me!!!

@irasema102

I’m Katrina, born and raised in the state of Texas. I have always been passionate about health, wellness, and inspiring others to believe in what their bodies can achieve. Whether I’m working toward a faster pace, training for my next race, or encouraging friends to join me on a run, I love being part of a community that supports growth and determination. I love spending time with my husband and our dogs, or hanging out with family and friends. When I’m not running, you’ll find me balancing a busy work life, staying active, and always striving to be the best version of myself.

@trinaashleylopez

I am 38 years old and a single mom to a high school senior. I started running 15 years ago. Life happened, impacting my health and ability to run. I've been gaining my health back and running again full force. I speak Spanish, Portuguese, and English fluently.

@krisspyruns2help

I’ve been running since high school, and it has grown into one of my biggest passions. I love the energy and freedom that running gives me, and I’m always excited to challenge myself with new goals. I also enjoy cycling, boxing, and skating,anything that keeps me active and moving. I’m a big fan of live sports, and living a healthy, active lifestyle is truly part of who I am.

@Linita_83

Hi! My name is Marie Puebla, and I’m a certified personal trainer, running enthusiast, hybrid athlete, and mom of two based in Texas. I’m passionate about helping people build confidence through fitness while showing that discipline and consistency can fit into real life, even through busy seasons of motherhood, school, and work.

I actively train in running, CrossFit-style training, and HYROX while coaching others through lifestyle changes, strength training, and sustainable habits. I’ve completed multiple half marathons, a full marathon, and continue pursuing new endurance and fitness goals while sharing my journey online and within my local community.

Beyond fitness, I’m currently studying accounting while growing my coaching brand, “Build With Discipline,” where my mission is to create a supportive and welcoming environment for people at every stage of their fitness journey. I love bringing people together through movement, community events, and encouraging others to believe they’re capable of more than they think.

@tipswith_marie

I've been running since 2014 as a way to lose weight from being 300lbs. I've been with IMRS for several years, and love watching how it is evolved into what it is today. You can catch me running around Irving with the Irving Running Club making sure I always stay half marathon ready. Ive ran over 220 half marathons, and have completed 25 fulls and ultras.

@meg08run

I’m passionate about running and the joy of movement. When the sunshine hits my skin, I feel an instant burst of energy that clears my mind and fuels every stride. Having grown up in the Irving area, it’s incredibly special to see races thriving in my own backyard.

I’m the founder and owner of Monavation, where I’ve been empowering women through ladies only group fitness and personal training for over a decade. I’m also blessed with an amazing husband and two beautiful daughters who inspire me every day. With one functioning kidney and a heart that beats for running, I love encouraging others to embrace their own fitness journey. I’m humbled and honored to be a Run Irving Ambassador.

@mymonavation

I wear many hats—husband, father, and IT consultant—but running is where I’ve found my passion and purpose.

What started as a journey for better health has grown into a love for running and, more importantly, for the running community. I’ve completed 𝟱𝟱+ 𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗳 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝟭𝟳 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝟮 𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗡𝗬𝗖 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗻𝘀.

For me, running is about more than miles and finish times. I love volunteering, pacing, encouraging first-time runners, and helping others believe they can do more than they thought possible.

I’m excited to join Run Irving as an ambassador and give back to the organization and community that have given me so many great memories.

𝗠𝘆 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲: 𝗥𝘂𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲. 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀. 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗮𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗴𝗼.

@runwithmuthu

I am 28 years old and moved to Dallas about five years ago, a decision that has shaped both my personal and professional life in the best way. I currently work full time as a Field Marketing Manager at AT&T, where I’ve built a career around connecting with people, driving results, and constantly pushing myself to grow. Outside of my corporate role, I’m also a spin instructor at TruFusion, which has become a huge part of who I am. Being in that room, leading a class, and pushing people past what they think they’re capable of has given me a completely different sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Fitness has always been a constant in my life. From running track in college to recently rediscovering my passion for running and completing my first half marathon, I know what it means to be both highly motivated and to fall out of love with something, then find your way back to it. That journey has shaped how I show up for others. I understand the balance between discipline and enjoyment, and I bring that mindset into everything I do.

I would describe myself as positive, hardworking, and inclusive. I genuinely enjoy bringing people together, creating energy, and helping others feel confident in who they are and what they’re capable of. Whether it’s in a workout class, at work, or just in everyday life, I aim to lead by example and create an environment where people feel supported and challenged at the same time.

Outside of work and fitness, I love spending time in nature, traveling, and being around my friends. I’m someone who values experiences, growth, and making the most out of every opportunity. At the core of it all, I’m passionate about living a balanced, full life and inspiring others to do the same.

@nick_aromando

Born and raised in Houston, current employee at Lockheed Martin, former Baylor Student Body President. Want to get more involved and encourage others while sharing my journey.

@NickMadincea

When I was growing up, I hated running. I never wanted to try anything I wasn’t naturally good at, so I stayed as far away from sports as I could. This all changed when I got very sick in 2018. After two years of debilitating symptoms, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. I was lucky to find a medication that got me into remission eventually, and once I started feeling better, I wanted to take advantage of my physical health and strength for the first time in my life. I found a pair of old sneakers in my closet, and I went for my first run in October 2022. I’ve since run multiple marathons, started a running club in Denton to share my love of running with others, and used my story to raise awareness and funds for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation!

@norahtriestorun

I started running in 2021 and it has grown from 5Ks to full marathons. My next big races are #17 will be in Montana and #18 will be Indianapolis. However I love the shorter distances as well. If I can’t race I’m spectating. I’ve gone as far as making day tips to Oklahoma City or Austin just to support friends on the race course. I love photography and videography. I still strive to be faster and have already qualified for the Boston Marathon 3 times. On the race course I’m very competitive looking for that age group award.

@Oliver.Runs.Fast

I've always been involved in a sport, whether it was volleyball when I was younger, golfing with my mom and dad, or bodybuilding once I left home after high school. In 2022, running found its way into my life and now it seems like it consumes my life, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm involved in Down To Run Club, where a group of young adults meet every Tuesday at Levy Event Plaza and we run a 5k around Lake Carolyn. I've done 5k's, 10k's, half marathons, full marathons, and an ultramarathon at 50k.

@rachelschwab @rjs_runninglog

My name is Rob Ramey. I’m a husband, a mechanical engineer and systems engineer by trade. I currently work as a business analyst. I’m really passionate about fitness and movement. I love to push my limits and challenge others to reach their potential. I have developed a deep resolve and discipline through fitness. Fitness has taught me that anything is possible through hard work and determination.
I first started with football and weight lifting. I was driven by seeing how strong and explosive I could become. Years of injuries haven’t stopped me but just shifted how I train.

I got into distance running in 2020 as a pursuit to improve my cardiovascular health and lose weight. When I realized how much room I have to grow in endurance, I became addicted to the progress.

I have loved being a part of the running community. I want to be a light for others, as others have been an inspiration for me.

@drivenby_discipline

Runner by accident, vibe-chaser by choice!

I started with obstacle course races in 2019 and somehow found myself running a half marathon by February 2020. Now I’m all about races that bring the energy—shoutout to IMRS for always delivering.

Based in the north Dallas suburbs, I travel for work and love all things crafty and design and photography related. Proud IMRS ambassador and excited for what’s next! 💚

@sakers_

My name is Shelby and I started my running journey in 2023 with a handful of 5Ks. Fast forward 3 years and now I’ve completed over 50 races across varying distances, states, trail and road, etc. Outside of running I love to travel and be outdoors exploring our National Parks. I’m also a proud dog mom, DIY queen, and currently training to complete a triathlon! I’m very bubbly and outgoing and love meeting new people!

@Southernshelbs

My name is Susan Guerrero, and I am passionate about health, fitness, and building strong communities. I am a runner, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Amigas Millennials Run Club, where we encourage and inspire people of all fitness levels to stay active, achieve their goals, and support one another. I enjoy connecting with others, promoting local events, and creating a positive impact through wellness, teamwork, and community involvement.

@glambeautysusan

I’m 22 and have been running for over 10 years. I’ve completed 2 marathons so far and I can’t wait to keep completing more! Outside of running I’m also a teacher and coach and I have been making social media content for the past 8 years!

@Runnabee_

Originally from Trinidad and Tobago 🇹🇹 Single. 1 daughter-married to Arend Adriaanse. Lives in Richardson TX. Been in the US over 37 years. Last sibling of 4 brothers & 2 sisters. I want to an Irving Marathon Running Series Ambassador because I love the family vibes, the purpose, the agenda, the site stability, the teamwork and most of all the community involvement.

@albrittonverline

I love to move my body in anyway that I can daily. I have two young children and they keep me so busy. I love to camp, hike, run, lift and make new runners friends! Running has become one of my favorite outlets to relieve stress and also get my son active. We go on bike ride runs where I will push the stroller and he will ride his bike!

@Xanfitlife


The OGs

I started running in 2012, mostly on the treadmill at first, as a way to become more active.  I later decided to complete a half marathon, which led to the decision to do full and ultra-marathons.  I enjoy encouraging others to become active through what I call “sexy pace”, which is any pace that allows you to be social and have fun.

@carlostherunner

ALFONZO

Alfonzo has been involved in the local running community for many years. Alfonzo was the 10k overall winner at the inaugural Irving Marathon in 2013. He has over 100+ races under his belt, completed 4 Boston Marathons, and coaches locally. He assisted Logan Sherman in pacing the majority of the women in the Chevron Houston Marathon Athlete Development Program “B” standard for the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials in the marathon, 2 weeks later ran the SAGU Half Marathon and also paced the 3:10 group at the Cowtown Marathon in Fort Worth.

@ifonzz

JAVIER

2nd place overall winner in the 50k Dallas Marathon Men’s Division. 2nd place overall at the Cowtown Ultra and Masters Winner for the 3rd consecutive year. 2020 Leadville 100 Race Across the Sky finisher in less than 30hrs in Leadville, CO. He is looking to run the Irving Marathon in under 2:50. He paced the 3:30 Irving Marathon in 2019 right after he got 3rd place in a 65k trail race and qualified to run the Leadville 100 mile trail race in 2020. He is a regular training member of the Irving Running Club. Owner of 2 boxer dogs and 1 cat.

@javivilchis1234

Jose%2BLopez%2BFlyer.jpg

JOSE

Has been running since the age of 14 going on 20 years. Likes to compete in distances ranging from 1 to 50 miles. Ran at Richardson Berkner and Southwestern University. Has finished 7 Boston Marathons and is training for number 8.

@jose.lopez.7549185


The Irving Marathon Running Series Ambassador Program is designed for enthusiastic, dependable community leaders who want to inspire others, promote active lifestyles, support our events, and help grow the Irving Marathon Running Series community.

We are looking for ambassadors who:

  • Represent the team positively and professionally

  • Are genuinely excited to share the Irving Marathon Running Series with others

  • Welcome runners and walkers of all experience levels

  • Participate in community outreach, digital storytelling, and event support

  • Show up consistently and follow through on commitments

Selected ambassadors may receive complimentary race entries, VIP Area Access, Irving Marathon Running Series gear, referral rewards, digital features, social media highlights, and community leadership opportunities.

APPLICATION STATUS

Oktoberfest 2026 – Fiesta 2027: CLOSED
Oktoberfest 2027 – Fiesta 2028: Evaluations Begin Summer 2027

AMBASSADOR APPLICATION

Please answer each question thoughtfully. Responses will be evaluated based on commitment, communication, community involvement, creativity, brand alignment, and availability.