On this episode of the MindBody Marathon podcast, host Dr. Leo Kormanik is joined by co-host Zach Goulet and guest Tina Ryee, the race director of the Women’s SixK. Tina shares the inspiring backstory of how the race came to life — a journey that began nearly a decade ago when she was working a draining job in Colorado. Feeling disconnected from her running roots, Tina began daydreaming about creating something more meaningful. Her passion for running and a desire to contribute something empowering to the community led her to envision a unique, women-focused race.

After moving back to Ohio, Tina accepted a grad assistant coaching role and interned with race director Jim Chaney of Run to You Racing. During COVID, the idea of an all-women’s event took shape more seriously. Recognizing that USA Track and Field had never hosted a 6K road championship, she and Jim submitted a proposal. To their surprise, USATF approved it, and in 2021, the first-ever Women’s 6K Championship race was held in Canton, Ohio.

The 6K distance was a deliberate and meaningful choice. Tina, a former collegiate runner and All-American in cross country, wanted the event to stand out and reflect her experience. Since the 6K is the standard distance for women’s collegiate cross country championships across all NCAA divisions, it felt like a perfect fit. The race has since grown into more than just an elite competition — it’s become a powerful, community-driven event under Tina’s nonprofit organization, inspiring women of all backgrounds. With stories of new mothers and individuals in recovery finding empowerment through participation, Tina reflects on how the race not only uplifts others but has empowered her personally as well.

Tina Ryee, director of the Women’s SixK, dives deeper into the inspiration and mission behind the race, explaining how its unique 6K distance subtly encourages women to push past their perceived limits — especially for those newer to running, like Dr. Leo’s wife, who found the 6K an empowering step beyond the 5K without the intimidation of a 10K. The race is hosted under Tina’s nonprofit, Top Tier Athlete, originally created during her coaching years to help young female athletes improve. Now reimagined, the organization aims to provide year-round impact through mentorships, entrepreneurship workshops, community running groups, and scholarships — particularly for women overcoming hardships. Tina highlights the race’s growing support from the community and major sponsors like PNC Bank, as well as its inclusivity, from elite runners to local women reclaiming their power through movement. The race has become more than a one-day event; it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the belief that with vision and support, anyone can create lasting change.

The conversation highlights the transformative impact of pushing past personal limits, especially for those overcoming hardship, with an inspiring example of an elite runner named Annie who rebounded from a disappointing Olympic trials race to win a major 6K event. Her comeback symbolized empowerment and resilience, aligning with the race's deeper purpose of uplifting women at all levels. The course itself was designed with intention—starting at Malone, symbolic for the organizer, and structured as a fast, point-to-point, mostly downhill route to both challenge and encourage runners. It mirrors life’s journey: a tough climb followed by a freeing descent. The unique start, where elites are cheered on by community runners, sets a powerful tone. With added elements like a post-race festival and new emcee, the event continues to grow, maintaining its mission to inspire and celebrate women through running.

The episode highlights exciting updates and heartfelt moments surrounding the upcoming Women’s 6K event. Nicolina, a beloved local personality, will emcee the race, bringing energy and empowerment to Stark County. New divisions have been introduced, including a walking category to honor all levels of effort and a “Pink Division” for breast cancer survivors, created in collaboration with Fit After Pink. The race has seen growing support through enthusiastic ambassadors and a strong sense of community. A new “Little Ladies’ Loop” for young girls is also launching. The event will feature an elite panel at Second Sole Canton and may conclude with an after-party at The Print Bar, a family-run speakeasy. Tina, the race director, shares her transition from collegiate coaching to fostering grassroots running through weekly community runs, emphasizing that running is about health, joy, and connection. She encourages anyone inspired to sign up, even if just to walk, because the supportive, empowering atmosphere can be life-changing.

Sign up for the race at: www.womens6k.com

You can order the Dr. Leo Kormanik's book Faster Without Fail on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4eEsB7M. 

Be sure to also check out Dr. Leo's Running Rehab YouTube page at www.YouTube.com/@RunningRehab.