Along the way, our team members did everything from their first 5k to their first Ironman and every distance in between. One ran 179 race miles across 15 events. Many ran further than they’d ever imagined they could. Everyone I talked to said the challenge inspired them to work harder and appreciate the race for what it was: a gift to themselves and a gift to those with ALS. The gift of being alive.
The Team has inspired me to do more, to try for more, to put myself out there more. 12 marathons on my trike in one year…while writing a book…while battling a terminal illness? Sure, why not try? Because your life is what you DECIDE to make out of it, regardless of what happens TO you.
Now, why wouldn’t you want to join Team Drea? Be inspired, inspire others, inspire yourself.
How It Works
- Pick a swim/bike/run race that represents a challenge to you (if you want to do another sport, let’s talk).
- Commit to raising at least $250 for ALS research through ALS.net or the Blazeman Foundation.
- Sign up hereby January 31st (b/c we all need deadlines).
In return, you will be invited to join the (closed) Team Drea Challenge Facebook group to bond with teammates and encourage one another. You will also receive a small gift from me before your race. We’re scattered across the country (and in Europe), but we will organize team races, parties, and get togethers as much as possible.
**Important** If you are already on Team Drea, please indulge me and sign up again using the link above so that I’m sure I have accurate information!
What’s New for 2016
Team Drea Kids Virtual Race
Please include if you have a child who might be interested on the Team Drea sign up form.
Race MedALS
Last November, I read a Runner’s World article about a marathoner with a terminal disease who started an organization for athletes to donate race medals to patients, veterans, and other people facing difficult challenges. The medal and a handwritten note aimed to let the recipient know that people (even strangers) care about them and to keep fighting.
I would like to adapt this program for Team Drea and people with ALS. Many team members are planning to do multiple race this year – often shorter races leading up to their big “A” race – which presents a great opportunity to dedicate the medal to someone battling ALS. Basically, you’d be matched up someone with ALS who wants to participate and after the race, you will send your medal and a handwritten note of support to the person.
This is an entirely voluntary part of the Team Drea Challenge. Please indicate on your sign up form if you are interested.
Andrea’s 2016 Races
Here is my race list so far – some of it is up in the air because, oh yeah, we’re selling our house and moving back to Raleigh (!!!). Or they are tentative until I get confirmation to use the trike.
Want to run with me? Many of them have shorter distances if you’re not in the mood for a marathon:
- February 14: George Washington’s Birthday Marathon, Greenbelt, MD
- March 12: Asheville Half Marathon, Asheville, NC (spectating some Team Drea racers)
- March 20: Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, Virginia Beach, VA
- April 9: Emerald Isle Run, Emerald Isle, NC
- April 24: Coastal Delaware Running Festival, Rehoboth Beach, DE (tentative)
- May 15: Ramblin’ Rose Raleigh, Raleigh, NC (women only sprint tri)
- May 29: Vermont City Marathon, Burlington, VT (tentative)
- September 24: Run with the Amish, Adams County, OH
- October 2: Ramblin’ Rose Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC (women only sprint tri)
- October 15: Cannonball Marathon, Greensboro, NC
- November 6: City of Oaks Marathon, Raleigh, NC
- December 10: Kiawah Island Marathon, Kiawah, SC (tentative)
1 Comment. Leave new
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