Building Finish Line Memories with the Golden State Challenge
For Christie and Irvin Bloxham, running has become more than just a fitness routine. It is a way to travel, set goals, and grow stronger together as a couple. Married for 14 years and together for 20, they have built a full life as parents, business owners of Vanity Salon and Barbershop, and now, dedicated runners. One of the greatest joys they have discovered on their journey is being part of the Golden State Challenge.
Discovering the Golden State Challenge
The Bloxhams first came across the Challenge in the most natural way, at the booth during a race weekend.
“We first learned about the GSC at the booth our first year of running,” Christie remembers. “We’ve continued because we enjoy the events and… we get the bonus medal! 🏅 haha.”
A Love for Race Weekends
What keeps them coming back is not just the medals, but the experiences. The Golden State Challenge races take them to some of California’s most iconic and beautiful destinations.
“The Santa Barbara wine country half is probably our favorite. It is such a special and memorable event for us,” Irvin says. “There is just something about the atmosphere, the scenery, and sharing it together.”
This year their 2025 Golden State Challenge journey has been packed with variety and challenges:
– Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Relay (a favorite)
– Surf City 10 Miler
– Long Beach, with Christie running the Half and Irvin tackling the Full Marathon
– Run Malibu Half Marathon
Each event gives them a reason to train, a chance to celebrate, and a weekend away to remember. “The medals for running 4 GSC races have been so cool too,” Christie adds. “It is always exciting to see what we will earn next.”
Why the Challenge Matters
For Christie and Irvin, the Golden State Challenge is about more than the races themselves. It is about accountability, community, and health.
“We would encourage others to push themselves and sign up for the event,” Irvin says. “When something is on the calendar, you hold yourself accountable.”
The Golden State Challenge has given them the structure to keep progressing while balancing their busy lives. It is also a reminder to prioritize what matters most.
“It is a great way to stay healthy and get little vacations along the way,” Christie shares. “Health is your #1 wealth.”
Looking to the Future
The Bloxhams are already looking ahead to 2025, with the Golden State Challenge right in the center of their goals. Christie is training toward her first full marathon in 2026 and aiming for a sub-two-hour half marathon, while Irvin has his sights set on a Boston Marathon qualifier with a dream of one day running Tokyo.
Having the Golden State Challenge races lined up gives them the perfect motivation. “When you know you are working toward something together, it makes every mile more meaningful,” Irvin says.
meaningful,” Irvin says.
Why They Inspire Us
As training partners, business partners, and best friends, Christie and Irvin show us what is possible when you approach running and life as a team. For them, the Golden State Challenge is not just about earning medals, but about collecting experiences, building resilience, and celebrating the journey along the way.
👉 Ready to join Christie and Irvin? Put your own race on the calendar and experience the accountability, adventure, and joy of the Golden State Challenge. Sign up today and start making finish line memories of your own.
