Earlier this year, I had decided I was going to throw my name in the lottery for the NYC marathon this November 2015. I ran the half marathon in NYC in 2013 but never really thought much about doing the full (2013-2014 were focused more on adventure racing/ultra running than marathons or less). After putting my name in the lottery and crossing my fingers, toes, and anything else I could cross, I waited and hoped I would get picked. The day came and I waited and waited. Finally I got the email telling me I hadn't gotten in. I didn't say anything to anyone but I was devastated I hadn't gotten in. I had only put my name in two other lotteries (Chicago and Cherry Blossom) and got in both so I was hoping NYC would be a part of my streak.
After not getting in I decided to wipe my tears and get to scheduling my fall races. I planned a few half marathons, a 24 hour race, and a 50k, but my schedule still felt 'incomplete'. I didn't think much about it until a few weeks ago when my friend Pam Rickard, Director of THPRuns, the running division of The Herren Project, posted that her team for NYC had someone change to another race on their fall schedule and a spot had opened up. I immediately felt like I had won the lottery (no pun intended)!! Even with my excitement, I opted to be responsible and ask questions before committing, but it didn't take long before I said YES!
I immediately realized why I didn't get into the lottery. Getting into the lottery would have been the 'easy' way. I would have paid the entry fee and ran the race. While rewarding, it wouldn't have been very fulfilling. Being given the opportunity to run with the THP team and fundraise for them was the perfect reason for me to run this race. Helping those with addictions and their family receive the guidance and help they need is going to make each step through those 5 boroughs just a little sweeter. Being a recovering alcoholic myself, I know how important it is to have the services THP provides. It can make all the difference for everyone in the situation.
So with all this being said, I want to share the link to my fundraising page for THP NYC marathon. If you would like to help, it would be greatly appreciated. Every amount helps.
Jaime's THPRuns NYC Marathon Fundraising Link
