When Quinn Brett rolled across the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon finish line last year, she put herself into a rare, perhaps unique, category: she had finished her hometown marathon both as an able-bodied runner and as an athlete living with a disability.
She also helped pioneer a new Athletes with Disabilities category for Twin Cities In Motion and the marathon: handcycling.
“It had been 20 years since I had wandered the scenery of Minneapolis/St.Paul as a runner attending the University of Minnesota, so it brought back some great memories,” the 44-year-old New Hope native told The Connection.
“The race reminded me of how beautiful it is and fellow racers were all very kind and cheerful--- being a wheeler I am aware that others might not know why or what I am using ... essentially that my legs don't work and this is how I run now.”
In 2001 as a 20-year-old college student, Quinn ran the Twin Cities Marathon, her first 26.2 mile race, in 4:28:59. The race led to additional marathons, ultras, and triathlons, and helped launch Quinn's career as a mountain athlete.
Quinn ultimately became a climbing ranger at Rocky Mountain National Park where she leveraged teaching, emergency medicine, and search and rescue skills to educate, support, and, at times, save the lives of park visitors. In her free time she traveled the world on climbing expeditions, establishing new routes and speed records on mountains across the globe.
In 2017, however, Quinn fell while climbing El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, sustaining a severe spinal cord injury that took the use of her legs. If she was going to finish another marathon, it would be with her arms.
" ... being a wheeler I am aware that others might not know why or what I am using ... essentially that my legs don't work and this is how I run now.”
“Disability is nuanced,” Quinn noted. “I am lucky in that I have core muscles and fully functioning arms. Using my arms is difficult but some of my friends are not so lucky, their arms have less or no function. Their diaphragm and lung capacity is also diminished or paralyzed.”
Quinn’s arms powered her to a 3:14:43 finish in last year’s marathon, propelling an e-assisted handcycle from downtown Minneapolis to the State Capitol grounds in St. Paul.
“It meant a lot to me. To return to my home state, to be included in such a meaningful and formative event --- Twin Cities being my first ever marathon and a catalyst for a career as a professional mountain athlete,” Quinn acknowledged.
“They bring about the same emotions but perhaps in different ways,” she said of her two Twin Cities Marathons. “As a runner, I was always nervous and unsure if my legs, my body would be able to hold up, to finish. Now I wonder if I will have a flat tire or other mobility device equipment issue, on top of that making sure my arms can do that grueling climb to the capitol finish!”
As the development director for Unite 2 Fight Paralysis, handcycling the marathon wasn’t solely a personal triumph, but also a victory for inclusion.
“If you don’t see us, society assumes there’s nothing to fix,” she stressed. “Our presence here may look different—because it’s a first of its kind—but it means we are finally included.”
“At U2FP, our mission is to make that inclusion the norm,” she added. “Too many in our community are fighting just to stay alive, battling secondary complications that make advocacy nearly impossible. We need to be seen, and this injury needs to be understood, so research funding and innovation move faster.”
Quinn and fellow U2FP staffer Jason Stoffer made up the entirety of last year’s pilot handcycle program at the marathon. Based on the safe, successful addition of handcycles to the marathon mix, handcycles are one of the four recognized and supported Athletes with Disabilities categories at TCM, along with push-rim wheelchairs, duo teams, and guide-runners for the visually impaired.
Unite 2 Fight Paralysis plans to field 8 – 10 handcyclists at this year’s marathon. They also host a charity fundraising team for the marathon and the Medtronic TC 10 Mile, allowing all race participants to represent and support the organization.
“Your awareness, your voice, and your support can turn inclusion from a rare moment into everyday reality,” Quinn emphasized.
Read inspiring feature stories about each of Twin Cities In Motions Athletes with Disabilities categories here.
Register by Thursday to ...
Save on Turkey Day Sign-Up!
Prices rise Friday for the Turkey Day 5K, downtown Minneapolis' Thanksgiving morning running tradition. Get your drumsticks moving early and -- wait for it -- the rest of your day will be gravy!
When you start Thanksgiving with us, you will:
Enjoy a great downtown Minneapolis course
Earn ASICS participant shirt
Impress family and friends with your Turkey Day 5K finisher medal
The Saturday Events of Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend are a great way for the whole family to enjoy getting into motion. Run the 5K and bring the kiddos along for a range of youth-friendly distances, where all kids 18 and run at no cost!
But don't delay! We're down to the final 500 spots in the TC 5K, presented by Fredrikson. Secure your spot in marathon weekend's snappiest race.
And bring the whole family, because the kids race run right afterward. From the Diaper Dash and Toddler Trot to the Half Mile and KARE11 Family Mile, there's a run for everyone in the family.
Kids Run Free at TCM - On marathon weekend and all year! From the Diaper Dash to the marathon itself, youth age 18 and under run at no cost thanks to our generous TCM Members and donors.
Select 2025 Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend apparel is now available for purchase! Shop the limited-release collection early to guarantee sizing in your favorite styles as quantities are limited.
Choose from a variety of styles and colors to commemorate your journey and celebrate all you will accomplish!
The pre-sale section will be available until Tuesday, September 16th, when marathon weekend merchandise will be removed to prepare for in-person shopping at the Health & Fitness Expo during race weekend. (Shipping for online purchases may take up to two weeks.)
Shop our full selection of items at the Health & Fitness Expo merchandise store at St. Paul RiverCentre on Friday, October 3 and Saturday, October 4.
My pro tip for marathon weekend is to connect with others. Cheer for fellow runners, give high-fives to kids on the course, and share encouragement at aid stations. The Twin Cities crowd is legendary—when you give that energy back, it makes the miles fly by and the memories stick.
That's Crazy. Only 25 Loony Spots Remain!
Run the TC Loony Challenge, presented by MOBOT
If you run three races in two days during marathon weekend, of course you should return home with four medals draped around your neck! That's the epic challenge and honor of the TC Loony Challenge, presented by MOBOT.
On Saturday, Oct. 4 run the ...
TC 10K, presented by Dermatology Consultants
TC 5K, presented by Fredrikson
Then on Sunday, Oct.5, run the:
Medtronic TC 10 Mile
... and you'll earn the medals, participant shirts, and a participant gift including a MOBOT foam roller water bottle. Find all the details here.
Join the community of nearly 4,000 volunteers who gather to make Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend happen.
There are thousands of volunteer opportunities ranging from Thursday, October 2 --- Sunday, October 5, plus other opportunities before and after race weekend. Find all the details -- and then sign up -- here! (NEW this year: if you have not completed a volunteer application previously, you will be prompted to do so before registering as a volunteer.)
Are you part of a nonprofit group looking for fundraising opportunities? TCM provides donations on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are you interested in being a medical volunteer? You can join the teamhere. (NEW this year: if you have not completed a volunteer application previously, you will be prompted to do so before registering as a medical volunteer.)
Are you looking to be involved in more than just race day? Learn about the TCM Association here. We still have many volunteer leadership roles available for Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend.
If you have questions regarding volunteering, please contact Senior Volunteer Manager, Kelli Haapala at volunteer@tcmevents.org.
Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon and 10 mile runners -- and, new in 2025, members of their support crews -- can sign up for the VIP Experience on race day. The Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend VIP Experienceoffers exclusive VIP treatment from start to finish on October 5.
Don't miss this limited opportunity for you and your support crew! We're enhancing the VIP experience to include a larger tent, more outdoor space, and multiple TV monitors displaying the race-day Live Show.
Amenities include:
Catered food
Pre-race staging at the Minnesota Viking's Longhouse (pictured)
Private gear check drop off and pick up
Front row seating at the finish line
An exclusive VIP Experience gift (see below!)
And more!
It will be like running your race on a red carpet!
This Massage and Recovery Kit will make it easy for you to recover quickly from your marathon weekend efforts. The kit is designed to help increase blood flow, reduce muscle pain, and assist muscle recovery. Included is a roller stick, spikey ball, and massage ball, gathered in a handy, branded carrying bag.
TCM Seeks Board of Directors Applicants
Twin Cities In Motion is seeking applicants with diverse perspectives and experiences to join our Board of Directors in 2026. Directors provide governance, leadership, and stewardship, in good faith and in the best interest of the corporation, to Twin Cities In Motion. TCM seeks purpose-driven leaders who can help the organization welcome and better serve our community for the next 40 years.
TCM's Board of Directors' application period is open through Thursday, October, 9. Learn more about the role here. Find the application here.
Managing the Mental Game Before Race Day
Motion Expert: Katie Mark
As race weekend approaches, your training plan may be tapering—but mentally, the pressure can start to mount. Whether you’re preparing for your first 10K, chasing a personal best in the 10 Mile, or lining up for your next marathon, the final weeks before a big event like the MedtronicTwin Cities Marathon Weekend often bring a wave of nerves, doubts, and restlessness.
The mental work of running doesn't stop when the mileage drops. In fact, it may intensify. Here are a few key strategies to keep your mindset strong in the final stretch:
Your Nerves are Normal
Feeling anxious before a big goal is not only common—it's human. Your body and brain have invested weeks, even months, into training. Now, with race day near, it’s natural to worry: Did I train enough? What if I fail? What if something goes wrong
Let yourself acknowledge those thoughts without judgment. Remember: anxiety often peaks when we care deeply. It’s not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign you’re invested.
Stick to Your Mental Routine, Just Like Your Physical One
Just as you’ve followed a structured training plan, now is the time to lean into a mental taper:
Practice visualization: Picture yourself running strong through key points on the course, especially the final mile or challenging hills like Summit Avenue.
Stay focused on the present: Rather than spiraling into what-ifs, bring your attention to today. A walk, a quiet moment, or even a deep breath can reconnect you to the now.
Use mantras or affirmations: Short phrases like “I am ready” or “Strong body, calm mind” can ground you during taper-week jitters.
Legendary ultramarathon runner, Hopkins, MN native and Best of the Midwest participant in this year’s Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, Courtney Dauwalter’s famous mantra is, “You’re fine. This is fine. Everything is fine. Keep moving!”
Beware of Taper-Time Traps
The taper period can be deceptive. With fewer miles and more rest, many runners may feel sluggish, irritable, overly self-critical or worry they’re losing fitness.
This is a mental trap. You’re not falling behind—you’re recovering. Your body is rebuilding stronger, and your mind needs to trust the process. When these thoughts arise, meet them with curiosity, not panic.
Anchor Yourself in Purpose
When anxiety takes over, remind yourself why you signed up in the first place. Whether you're running for a loved one, a personal challenge, a PR, or the joy of the community—reconnect with that intention.
Writing it down, sharing it with someone, or even repeating it quietly to yourself at the start line can bring you back to center.
Embrace the Community
One of the greatest strengths of the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend is the incredible energy and support of the running community. From volunteers and spectators to fellow runners, you are not alone.
Reach out. Talk to others. Share your nerves and your excitement.
Final Thought
Running a race is about so much more than pace or place. It's about inner strength, connection, and discovering what you're capable of when things get hard.
You’ve done the work. Now let your mind catch up with your body.
Katie Mark is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who owns On the Mark Therapy, LLC. Katie provides mental health therapy while running and / or walking with her clients in nature. She is one of the team of Motion Experts TCM has gathered to help its subscribers and participants get the most out of their running. You can contact Katie about her private therapy practice at katie@onthemarktherapy.com.
Stride Into Marathon Weekend with ...
Great September Motion Center Programming
Tomorrow!
🏃🏃🏃 Yoga for Runners 🏃🏃🏃
Wednesday, September 10 @ 6 p.m.
at the Twin Cities Motion Center in St. Paul
Join yoga instructor Annie Marlenga for a gentle, slow, recovery yoga flow, designed for runners, walkers, and movers of all kinds. All yogi backgrounds are welcome, including first-timers! We'll focus on stretching muscles used frequently by runners, building stability in key joints, and using breathwork to enhance endurance and recovery - so you can run stronger, longer and with less risk of injury.
Public Lands will team up with Twin Cities In Motion for a community run starting at their Woodbury store. ✨ Try out a pair of demo shoes 🎟️ Enter to win a raffle prize 🥨 Enjoy post-run snacks, refreshments, and an exclusive coupon offer for all participants. Route will be 3-5 miles in two groups -- perfect for all paces.
Tuesday, September 16 @ 6 p.m. (run) 7 p.m. (program)
at the Twin Cities Motion Center in St. Paul
Curious about proper fueling for endurance training and competition? Join us and hear from dietitian Emi (Trost) Jacobson, MS, RD about topics like caffeine, fuel timing, race day examples and more! Emi’s passion for nutrition was shaped by her love of homegrown food and her personal journey of overcoming low energy and disordered eating in college.
Join us to celebrate the start of Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon week with a Motion Center gathering featuring tips from TCM Ambassadors and Motion Experts, an optional 5K shake-out run, plus prize drawings and refreshments. Release some nervous energy with us at the start of race week! The celebration is free and open to anyone excited about marathon weekend - whether you're a participant, volunteer, or supporter!
Featuring limited-edition posters created by local artists inspired by the Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America®. Artists, designers, illustrators have been invited to create pieces inspired by the beauty and energy of the marathon: the sights, sounds, highlights, and landmarks that capture the spirit of the marathon and the Twin Cities community. 50% of profits from each poster sale will go to TCM's non-profit mission, including the TC Kids Run Free program, with the other 50% going directly to artist.
Jobs at Openings with Us
Help Twin Cities In Motion Tell Its Story
Are you a creative, data-driven, community-minded individual with a passion for content strategy and storytelling?
Or, are you passionate about brand and visual storytelling in the nonprofit sector? Can you manage a new identity system while executing design projects?
If you answered 'yes!' to either, you should consider applying to join the TCM team for one of our two open positions:
Content Manager & Community Reporter
Graphic Designer & Design Manager
Twin Cities In Motion is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit that organizes five race events with several distances throughout the year, including Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend. TCM provides opportunities for people of all ages, abilities, and experiences to live an active, healthy lifestyle.
Thank you for reading the Connection and being part of the Twin Cities In Motion running community. We'll be back next week with more news and community. Stay in touch with TCM in the meantime via our social media channels. Contact us directly with your questions, story ideas or whatever is on your mind at info@tcmevents.org.
.png?upscale=true&width=1120&upscale=true&name=Title%20(10).png)
.png?upscale=true&width=1120&upscale=true&name=Postman%20Law%20Newsletter%20Banner%20I%20MN%20Marathon%20(002).png)
.jpg?upscale=true&width=240&upscale=true&name=Image%20(9).jpg)
