Why I Run for the Parks: Susan Packard
The Chicago Parks Foundation has been a proud partner of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon since 2014 with our charity team, Team ChiParks. Each year, our runners make their miles extra meaningful by fundraising on behalf of CPF.
Here on our Seeing Green Blog, our 2021 Team ChiParks runners share why they are running for the parks this October 10th!
Today we hear from return Team ChiParks member, Susan Packard!
In 2013, Susan ran her first race, the Lung Run, in honor of a friend. Since then, she has completed many races and run for several charities, including the 2019 Chicago Marathon with Team ChiParks! We are thrilled to have her join us again for the 2021 race.
“I love Chicago’s parks and want to support them anyway I can. In addition to cleaning up the parks I am glad to be able to fundraise for them.”
Susan Packard
Team ChiParks 2021
Which marathons have you completed?
This will be my fourth marathon! I ran in 2013, 2017, and 2019.
What does running the 2021 Bank of America Chicago Marathon mean to you?
I am honored to be part of a group that gets to run in this beautiful city. It is an amazing course with amazing participants and wonderful fans! The outpouring of support is humbling and I am grateful.
Why are you running on behalf of Team ChiParks?
I love Chicago’s parks and want to support them anyway I can. In addition to cleaning up the parks I am glad to be able to fundraise for them.
What do you love most about Chicago parks?
I love the peacefulness and serenity of the parks. They’re a great place to go to unwind and meditate. Also a great place to sneak away at lunch time.
What is your favorite thing about training for the Chicago Marathon?
I love the camaraderie and meeting up every Saturday. I enjoy the challenge of increasing my mileage every week.
What are some of your training habits?
I always have salmon the night before any run of any distance. Music? Anything that inspires running such as Steve Winwood’s “While You See a Chance”.
