LA Marathon

As 2011 comes to a close and we embark on new goals and aspirations for 2012 I would like to discuss the prospect of running a marathon.

Now, you may have read the title of this post and thought, This one is not for me, but give me a chance, you might surprise yourself. Let me preface this by saying, I am not a born runner. In fact, I almost failed PE in the 8th grade because I REFUSED to run a mile. And yet, even I was able to run and complete the LA Marathon in 2010. And let me tell you, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

If you are considering running a marathon, I suggest going to watch one first. This is what truly inspired me to sign up. I know it may seem odd to "watch" a marathon, but when you are standing on the sidelines watching thousands of people of all shapes, sizes, colors and ages, heroicly stride past you, you can't help but want to be part of that too.

Not only is running a marathon an incredible physical feat, but it is also a way to give back. This year the LA Marathon is supporting over 60 charities through its Run 4 Something campaign. This is an easy way for you to build support, awareness and funding for a charity of your choice. You can choose to sign up for the 26.2 mile marathon, or compete as a team in the Charity 2-Person Marathon. This is a new and excellent option for couples, friends, siblings, father/daughter, mother/son, any pair of people looking to get involved and get in shape! Each person completes a 13.1 portion of the run/walk and you work as a team to fundraise and gather support for your charity.

There are many wonderful charities registered for the LA Marathon this year, but I would like to highlight one charity in particular that has been involved with the LA Marathon's charity run since its inception: Child S.H.A.R.E. Child S.H.A.R.E. is a non-profit organization that provides safe and loving homes for abused and neglected children through foster care and adoption. Through recruitment, they are able to find families for children throughout southern California who otherwise would be displaced in group homes and foster care facilities. As one who believes in childhood as a basic human right, I believe this is an admirable and worthy cause. I also appreciate the sensibility of taking care of our own, and finding homes for children in our own community who need the love and support of family.

I urge you to learn more about this organization by visiting their website and consider the option of running 4 something in this year's LA Marathon.