Participant Insights: The Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk
Taking place each September, The Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund walk is a fitness event that raises money to benefit cancer research. This exciting event has provided over $51 million for cancer research and care over the past 19 years. This year’s event took place last Sunday.
This past week I noticed that the author of one of the food blogs I read regularly was planning to participate. Tina blogs at Carrots ‘n’ Cake which is a food blog dedicated to a healthy balance. She is a motivating fitness enthusiast who has participated in the event before. With her team, Kickin’ Cancer’s Keister, she walked the 26.2 miles while raising funds for cancer research.
I was able to get in touch with Tina to learn a little more about the event and why she participates.
Can you tell us a little bit about the event?
The event in which I participated was the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, which follows the same historic Boston Marathon route, beginning in Hopkinton and ending in Boston, a total of 26.2 miles. Over 8,000 walkers participated yesterday in the 20th anniversary BMJFW.
Is this your first charity event?
No. This was my 3rd BMJFW, and I usually participate in the annual Boston Komen Race for the Cure 5k. I’ve also participated in various other walks/runs over the years.
What motivates you to participate in these types of events?
They challenge me physically, while, at the same time, benefiting someone else. It’s nice to know that my participation helps a much larger cause. Plus, the events are fun!
Did you do anything special to prepare for the event? Any specific type of training or eating patterns?
Our BMJFW team usually throws a pasta party the night before the walk in preparation for our big day. We don’t train together, but most of us went out and did a few long walks on our own prior to the event.
Regarding the planning of the event, did it go smoothly? What did you like or dislike about it?
The BMJFW is one of the best planned events that I have ever participated in. The sheer number of volunteers and support for this event make it run so smoothly. There is always someone cheering you on and helping you with whatever you need to make your walk the best it can be. The Jimmy Fund has every detail covered.
The event provides a fun-filled day of fitness, socializing and refreshment all to raise money for a great cause. If you think you might be interested in participating next year, the event takes place in mid-September. Participants can walk all 26.2 miles or choose to walk one of the 13.1 mile routes. There is even a 5 and 3 mile route. Those who can’t make it to Boston can participate in a virtual walker program! Registration this year was $20 with each team committing to raise $250.
You can also check out Tina’s post about the event with some great pictures from her experience.
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