Sept. 22, 2010 was an important day in the history of Chicago. Back On My Feet officially launched with it’s inaugural run from the Lawson House.
After this run, Back On My Feet members were inspired over breakfast at the Marriot by speeches from founder Anne Mahlum, Mark Mahlum (Anne’s Dad), Kenny Herder (a Philadelphia BOMF alumnus) and others. The day before the momentous run, the members had been outfitted with new running gear at The Universal Sole.
It has been more than one month since the inaugural run in Chicago and our first run from St. Leonard’s. What an incredible month it has been. What an incredible team we have. And most importantly, what incredible team spirit we have.
We started with one mile runs and over the course of the month have been able to build up to four mile runs. Our team trainer, Kate, has also added track speed work to our training. This month has proven we have a group of dedicated and determined members.
Mingo is great at keeping us on time with our morning routines, Keith helps keep things light on our runs with an occasional whoop and song. Ramiro is always up for the challenge without complaint. Michael is a great team player and has learned he loves red lights. Maurice is always challenging himself and inspires us all. Elton has pushed what he thought were his limits and emerged successful. Ronnie brings a cheery disposition to the group. Darren & Robert have consistently come to our morning huddle without being able to run … kudos to them since, getting out of bed is the biggest battle. Darren has been able to join the group runs now and Robert is able to run on St. Leonard’s property.
On 10-10-10, Ramiro, Mingo, Michael, Rochelle, Mo, Catherine, & Erin all made the effort to come out and cheer on the Chicago Marathoners at mile 15. The green BOMF shirts and big smiles that greeted the runners were a huge boost! On October 12th, some of the St. Leonard’s team had the privilege to hear and be inspired by Ryan Hall, an Olympic marathoner and the US half marathon record holder. Ryan and his wife Sara co-founded the Hall/Steps Foundation which is a huge supporter of Back on My Feet.
Coming up soon for our team is our first 5K race on October 30th. We will be participating in the UNO Carrera de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) 5K. Our team is ready and excited for this race! We also have the Red Bull Trail Daze race coming up on November 20th, 2010. We welcome Rochelle who recently joined our team as volunteer coordinator. Congratulations to our team leader, Doug, who earns the well deserved title of “Non-Residential Team Member of the Month”.
Res Member of the Month - Maurice
As one of St. Leonard’s founding members, Maurice started running to get back in shape and shed some lbs. Now slimmer and several pounds lighter, Maurice continues to impress by always pushing himself to conquer longer distances.
“Running has become a discipline in life for me.”
Way to go Maurice!
Non-Res Member of the Month - Doug
As the Team Leader for St. Leonard’s, Doug has helped one of Chicago’s inaugural teams take flight and soar through their first month.
“These guys motivate me as much as we motivate them. My love of running goes back many years, and it’s great to see other people pick up the same passion. Running has changed my life, so its great to see it change others as well!”
Keep up the great work Doug!
i love seeing you running early in the morning, on my walk up damen to the train. this morning, your posse was all wearing the green “Back on my Feet” tshirts and I finally know who you are! Keep it up! If I didnt have to be on the 630 train, I’d be running with you. In solidarity, Rhea