UMass Boston News Blog

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: DeWayne Lehman, 617 287-5302
Nov. 5, 2008

GoKids Boston Seeks Runners, Sponsors For 2009 Boston Marathon Team

As part of the official charity program of the Boston Marathon, GoKids Boston at the University of Massachusetts Boston is seeking marathon runners both unqualified and qualified to participate in the 2009 Boston Marathon. GoKids Boston is also looking for businesses for financial support as part of the fundraising efforts to benefit the research and training facility located on the UMass Boston campus.

GoKids Boston has been recognized by the US Surgeon General for empowering kids to become healthy adults through movement, education, and technology. It also serves as a strength rehabilitation center for children experiencing cancer, obesity, diabetes, asthma, and congenital heart disease. Undergraduate and graduate students train in a wide range of health-related disciplines.

The GoKids Boston Marathon team will consists of 20 runners who in exchange for raising a minimum of $3,000 in donations will receive a waiver into the Boston Marathon. Qualified runners are also welcome to join the team for a minimum fundraising effort of $500 per member. UMass Boston alumni are welcome and encouraged to participate as either runners or sponsors of the team. Donations to the team are also being accepted.

Runners receive personalized coaching, optional weekly workouts, running products, transportation to race start, pasta pre-race dinner, incentive prizes, organized motivational and information meetings, and opportunity to challenge yourself as a participant in the marathon.

Businesses and individuals seeking to be part of this important community program should contact Program Coordinator Susan Hurley at charityteams@comcast.net or call GoKids at 617-287-KIDS (5437).