Published November 20, 2009 10:00AM
What better way to get in the holiday spirit than to give to those in need – and to
do so with one of your runner gal pals. Make a commitment together to train and
race for a cause. The opportunities for charitable fundraising coupled with
running, walking or riding challenges are endless. If there’s not an
organization already near and dear to your hearts, do some research together to
find one that will motivate you both. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
operates Team in Training, with a variety of run, bike and triathlon training
groups working to raise money to fight blood cancers. The Michael J Fox
Foundation’s Team Fox encourages participants to fundraise for Parkinson’s
research. The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure series raises funds and
awareness in the battle against breast cancer. If you and your training partner
are up for a full Ironman event, the Janus Charity Challenge provides tools for
triathletes to fundraise for any charitable organization of their
choice.
Why
not take the gift of your individual fitness – a gift that you benefit from
every day – and dedicate it toward raising a meaningful contribution for a
charitable cause. Trust me, that finish line will feel especially sweet once
you and your BFF have reached it for a purpose that goes beyond your own
personal accomplishments.
–
Holly Bennett