Steph Lombardi

Steph Lombardi

Barely slept the night before race registration. I was excited, nervous & SUPER anxious. I was up early & had all my devices ready to go. Logged into the waiting room at 7:45 am. When 10am hit, I was transferred to the queue.


Six devices all showing more than an hour wait time.


Goofy challenge sold out.


10K sold out.


Still more than an hour estimated wait time.


DOPEY SOLD OUT.


I’ve been watching people run the Dopey challenge for years. This past January during marathon weekend is when I decided this was my last year watching, next year (2027) I will be there. The craziest part? I’m not a runner. I actually have always said the opposite that I absolutely despise running. And if I ever need to run to save my life just kill me because I won’t do it. And now look at me.


When I decided in January I started training right away. I’ve been talking about it to anyone who will freaking listen to me. I bought two pairs of running shoes, socks, a walking pad, a treadmill, signed up for wine & dine weekend AND a local half marathon in July in hopes to have a fast enough time to submit as proof of time to secure an earlier corral for marathon weekend.


Imagine my disappointment looking between all six of my screens all STILL showing “more than an hour” wait time.


I didn’t wait. Didn’t sulk. Didn’t take time to feel sorry for myself. I asked what’s my next option?


I did a quick google search to find charities with race bibs available and signed the pledge. For $25 and a commitment to raise $2,500 for No Kid Hungry to secure my spot, I’m officially IN for Dopey 2027. I was pretty intimidated by the amount when I first signed up (especially agreeing to pay the difference if I don’t hit the mark), but people rallied around me pretty quickly with donations and I’m already off to a great start!


Here’s to knocking that $2,500 out of the park and going way above & beyond. I’m excited to see what we can do! 🧡



Steph Lombardi