As many of you know, I am the proud father of three daughters, “A Girl Dad”, Brynn (23), Logan (21) and Rachel (19). At an early age, my wife Stacy and I always felt that sports and fitness was critical to developing self-esteem, social skills and competitiveness. Prior to my girls ultimately choosing soccer as their focus, they were involved with a program similar to what is now known as "Girls on the Run", which promotes the fun, healthy and creative use of running to build confidence and a love of exercise.
Recently, my youngest daughter Rachel (19) just ran and completed a 10K, proving to herself that she could do it as a college freshman. I think she caught the bug, as she is now focusing on a 10 miler this summer in Chicago. And, not surprisingly, she has also chosen to blend her newfound desire to run with her love of Disney. On January 12th, 2025, she will run her first ½ Marathon @ Disney World.
Having grown up watching me compete in numerous competitions and watching me sidelined for the last three years with injuries, she has challenged me to "get back at it" and run the Disney ½ Marathon with her. I’ve accepted the challenge (and even accepted the possibility that she'll leave me in the dust).
I had always hoped one day to finish a race with one of my girls. I believe that the early involvement with a program similar to Girls on the Run helped to motivate Rachel to take this on just as it inspires participants of all abilities to recognize their individual strengths while building a sense of connection in a team setting. In today’s world, the needs of girls and the pressures they face have intensified. Numerous reports have shown the decline in girls’ mental health and physical activity levels over the last decade. Girls on the Run helps to address these mental and physical health concerns while creating an environment where girls can explore their emotions, cultivate empathy and strengthen their physical and emotional health.
As a "Thank You" to Girls on The Run, I have decided to use this momentous run to give back. I will be raising money as I train to complete this 1/2 marathon and would greatly appreciate your support. All proceeds go to Girls on The Run. It's a great cause and may just be the reason my daughter earns bragging rights around the house!