When Helen Richman crossed the finish line of a half marathon in Hawaii last month, she did more than run 13.1 miles, she completed her challenge of running a half marathon in all 50 states. What began as a personal challenge grew into years of miles and adventures, with each state bringing a new course and a new story.
Helen is a longtime Broomall resident and local ACME pharmacist whose running journey began over a decade ago. “I was approaching my 40th birthday and looking for a challenge,” she recalled. What began as walking and running in her neighborhood led to a 5K and then later her first half marathon in Delaware. Next came a race in Philadelphia. At that point, Helen and her co-worker/ running partner, Donna, realized that they could set a new goal: Run a half marathon in all 50 states.
Over the past 12 and a half years, running in races across the country taught Helen that if she set her mind to something, she could do it. “I’m very strong-willed and not a quitter,” she said. Never much of a runner before she started this challenge, she discovered it was a practical and inexpensive way to exercise. “You can run any time, for as long or as short as you want. All you need are some running shoes,” she said. “It’s been great for me both physically and mentally.”
As a pharmacist who works 40 hrs a week, Helen fit in her training in the early morning. “The only thing that ever really stopped me was ice or snow,” she said. Training in all types of weather helped prepare her for races in less than ideal conditions. “In the south we were dealing with the heat and out west it was the elevation,” she recalled.
Helen and Donna began choosing locations that were a drive away, eventually using a service called Mainly Marathons, a U.S.based series of endurance events that organizes marathons and half marathons in every state. Helen explained that they often schedule races over several consecutive days at the same location. “It is especially popular with runners who want to complete all 50 states,” she said. “They offer a supportive, community-focused atmosphere with small races, scenic courses and themed events.”
As for her fondest memories from this personal challenge, Helen recalled her marathons in New England. “Not only were the temperatures ideal, but the scenery was also beautiful,” she recalled. “Alaska was even more beautiful than I ever imagined. I definitely saved the best two for last: Alaska and Hawaii.”
Helen’s final race in Hawaii didn’t quite go as she pictured it. “The official race was canceled due to Hurricane Lowell, and surprisingly, I wasn’t sad,” she said. I actually felt relieved knowing that everyone’s safety came first.”
But after traveling all the way to Hawaii, Helen wanted to finish what she started. “With two wonderful friends by my side, I ran the 13.1 miles anyway and earned my medal, officially completing my goal of running a half marathon in all 50 states!” Helen said proudly.
Helen’s family was there to celebrate her accomplishment. “They supported me every step of the way,” she said of her husband and sons. “At first they were skeptical when I told them my goal of 50 states, but after I completed 10, they knew I was serious,” she said jokingly.
Over the years, Helen received lots of support from her mom, who sadly passed away before her last few races. “I used to call her after every race,” she said. “It was bittersweet crossing the finish line for my last one in Hawaii and not getting to call her.” Helen also missed the support of her running partner, Donna, who was unable to go to Hawaii after a personal loss. “We’ve run so many together, it was hard not to have her there,” she added.
“But I knew she was with me in spirit.” While the ending may not have been the finish line Helen imagined, somehow it felt like the perfect ending to an unforgettable journey. “50 states. 50 half marathons. 655 miles. Mission accomplished!” she added. So what is next for Helen after completing all 50 states? “I think my body is telling me to slow down,” she said. “But I know now that I’ve learned that I can do anything I put my mind to. That’s definitely the lesson I wanted to show to my children!”