Feet-ured Runner: Julie Martin

A Family Built on Running, Relays, and Eau Claire Traditions

“I first fell in love with running around 2004, when I trained for my first half marathon. The energy and positivity at the start line hooked me instantly. I spent my 20s and 30s running half marathons, a few full marathons, and eventually discovered longer-distance relay races—my favorite mix of pushing yourself and cheering on your teammates.”

That love for running even shaped the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
“My husband and I actually met online in 2019 because his profile mentioned Ragnar relay races. I remember thinking, ‘Runners are good people… we need to meet!’ Not long after, he told me he was racing a 50-miler in Door County. I happened to be heading that way, so I surprised him and cheered him on. Watching him still smiling after 20 and 30 miles, I knew he was something special.”

Running soon became a family rhythm.
“We had our first son, Aiden, in 2020. By age two, he already knew the routine: ‘Dad goes for a long run, then Mom goes for a long run.’ When I’d get home, he’d ask to run laps around the house or sprint up and down the street—a true born runner! He’s done the Cheri Uelmen Fantastically Fun Kids Run for the past three years, and seeing his excitement, pride, and growth each time is one of my favorite parts of race weekend.”

And now, the family tradition is growing.
“In 2026, my husband and I will run the G-EAU Bigger Challenges again—we’ve done them since the series began. My first year running the 5k/10k/full taught me so much; it’s the perfect challenge for anyone ready to push themselves. After watching kids finish the 5k on Saturday night, I asked Aiden if he’d want to try it with us. He lit up and said, ‘I’m going to run a 5k when I’m 5!’ And our youngest, Phoenix, will be joining the fun too by doing the Diaper Dash as his very first race. I love that this is becoming our family tradition.”