Jay Close, Running the 2010 Boston Marathon

Update: Over $4,500 raised, including pledges and offline donations.

It has been a life long goal of mine to run the Boston Marathon. In 2010 I am making that a reality! I started gradually running in early 2009 and ran my first road race, The Hyannis Half Marathon in Feb 2009. During the spring and summer I ran a handful of other races and most recently I ran the Falmouth Cape Cod Marathon in October. I enjoy the physical and mental challenge of long distance running and the freedom of being outside enjoying nature and all it has to offer. I have always had an appreciation of the outdoors - hiking the White Mountains, working for the Appalachian Mountain Club, kite surfing the ocean waters, kayaking local lakes and oceans, skiing east and west - there is a sense of peace being outdoors. Since living in Boston, I have gained a greater appreciation for outdoor space as I have visited and enjoyed many parks throughout the city. That is why I have decided to raise money to support the efforts of the Esplanade Association during my 2010 Boston Marathon run.

Both urban and rural parks have a profound impact on the local economy and encourage a healthy and productive lifestyle for all who use them. It's a place for all to gather, explore, enjoy nature, relax and have fun. Many do not realize that the majority of funding for projects & maintenance in urban parks are through private donations and the work of organizations like The Esplanade Association (TEA). TEA is a non-profit organization working to restore and enhance Boston's historic Charles River Esplanade. Since 2001, TEA has worked closely with the Esplanade's state park managers and The Department of Conservation and Recreation (and among other groups) to ensure the park continues to improve, aesthetically, environmentally and experientially for all to enjoy.

The Esplanade is one of the oldest and most popular parks in the country. It comprises three miles of parkland stretching along the Charles River from the Museum of Science to the Boston University Bridge. At any time of year, you will see people enjoying The Esplanade - walking, running, biking, learning to sail, watching fireworks, boating, picnicking, playing with their children - every season has something to offer. Visitors total 3 million people per year from near and far and that number continues to grow. Despite its tremendous popularity, this park is in a critical state of disrepair due to decades of insufficient funding. The Esplanade fell into generally poor condition during the 20th century and continues to struggle today. Examples of this are aging trees that are past their prime and in decline, the soil is exhausted and the grass is worn out in many places. Pathway shoulders continue to erode, increasing the amount of pollutants that find their way into the river. Historic structures and railings are crumbling. In short, after a century of change and heavy use, the Esplanade is depleted and in need of revitalization.

With the help of donations, TEA has made great contributions and changes to the Esplanade, just some of those include: established the Boston Model Sailing Club, donated 12 kayaks to Community Boating, established an award-winning volunteer program that brings thousands into the park annually, partnered with the Boston Landmarks Orchestra on the summer concert series, initiated free park programs like Sundays in the Park, built Stoneman Playground and donated it to the DCR, planted thousands of tulips and daffodils throughout the park. With your donation TEA can continue to make a tremendous impact on the park and work to make the Esplanade a safe, active, beautiful world class park for all to enjoy.

Learn more at: www.esplanadeassociation.org.

Thank you so much for your support! Jay