Candidates [4] for the 2025-2026 Empire Runners Board of Directors 

(Note: There are 4 seats opening up in 2025)

Bethany Garrick

I am a Christian, Sonoma County local, rock climber, and runner. I'm also a Pre-Med college student and a language geek. My favorite thing about the Empire Runners is the laughter and cheerfulness the members have at races. I've only been running for a bit; I started in Summer of 2023 to explore my area after moving, and after being kindled by a 5k Spartan Race that a friend reeled me into. After June of 2023, joint pain flagged me to stop until my first half marathon in November 2023. Half marathon is my favorite race distance, and I JUST ran my first marathon! While on board, I look forward to increasing the appeal of the club to younger runners. I'd also love to plan something in Point Reyes, formal or informal! Can't wait to get to know everyone! 

Dan Karbousky

Candidate Bio:

Shortly after moving back to Santa Rosa in the summer of 2011, Dan wanted to find a group that he could socialize and workout with regularly. He learned about the Empire Runners but was at first intimidated by them. After continuing to show up to the workouts he began to make friends in the club and found that he could handle the workouts. He has been a club member ever since. Dan has been a high school XC and track & field assistant coach for several years and has served on the ERC board for four years prior to this current term. Dan wants to give back to the club that has given him so much - friendships, workouts to look forward to throughout the week, numerous runs in the park, and a sense of community. 

Raylene Leavitt

Candidate Bio:

My husband, 2 children and I moved here from San Jose because we purchased a CPA firm in 2001.  My professional background includes HR, Office Administration, Operations, and business owner. I am passionate about over all wellness.  I grew up active and have always done something to stay active for most of my life.  I coached my daughter’s soccer teams for 6 years, Girls on the Run for 3 seasons, Rincon Valley Middle School Cross Country and Track for 11 years. I am in the process of trying to build a youth program that motivates youth to build strength, self-esteem and create responsibility and awareness for self and others.

I have served on the board for the following organizations:

                Rotoract (4 years)  – member, secretary, VP and President

                Santa Rosa Mothers club (3 years) – member and secretary

                Austin Creek Elementary School (3 years) – member, secretary, and VP

                Girls on the Run (one year – board was dissolved as they merged with Napa) – member and secretary

I like the club because it offers an outlet for the running community to gather and give for youth and adults.

I started running with friends training for my first triathlon in 2005.  It became my go to.  Although I am slowing down, I still love it. 

What are you looking forward to doing while on the board?

Giving back, and meeting new people

Scott Steinberg

Candidate Bio:

I have lived in Santa Rosa for 10 years with my wife and two boys (ages 13 and 11). I teach government and economics at Sonoma Valley High School. I love Sonoma County and running. I like that the Empire Runners Club is an inclusive organization. I think it provides fun and challenging experiences for elite athletes and casual runners (such as myself) and everyone in between. If elected to the board, I would help carry on the tradition of outstanding races. I would also hope to drum up new traditions with other board members.