Debbie Wilgus: Running the 114th Boston Marathon

Welcome and thank you for visiting!

Having lived in Boston for the past ten years, I have had the pleasure of experiencing its many wonderful traditions. Whether it be a Red Sox game, the St. Patty's Day Parade in Southie, or Fireworks over the Charles River on 4th of July, I have come to enjoy them all. However, being a native of Ohio, one New England holiday that was new to me was the observation of Patriots' Day often referred to by locals as "Marathon Monday." This holiday has come to be a favorite of mine. Getting together with friends for a marathon party, some drinks at a Boylston Street bar before cheering on friends and co-workers running the marathon and taking in a Red Soxs game before noon, what is not to enjoy?

This year I am thrilled to have the opportunity of running this famed race while raising money for the Esplanade Association. The Esplanade Association is a non-profit organization that works to protect, restore, and beautify Boston’s historic Charles River Esplanade. The Esplanade is the shared backyard of every resident in Boston and it is a wonderful place to get away from the busy city life and enjoy the outdoors. This essential urban park is showing its age and this great charity is working on its revitalization. Simply donating $150 purchases and plants a juvenile tree for this park. To learn more please visit www.esplanadeassociation.org.

I am excited about running my first marathon in the city I now call home. The Charles River Esplanade is an area where I do 90% of my running and biking, it is also where I spend many summer afternoons picnicking and hanging with friends. I am very pleased to assist such a great charity right here in my neighborhood and I encourage you to help keep this park around for generations to come. Your support and donations are greatly appreciated.

May my training make the winter go by fast, and may mother nature be kind.

Thanks again,
Debbie Wilgus