Why Vicky Runs for the Parks
Meet Team ChiParks in our ongoing ‘Why I Run for the Parks’ blog series highlighting members of our 2025 charity team.
The Chicago Parks Foundation has been a proud Bank of America Chicago Marathon charity partner since 2013, as well as the Bank of America Chicago 13.1.
These dedicated runners choose to make their miles extra meaningful by running on behalf of a charity. Since our start, Team ChiParks and their supporters have raised nearly $2 million for the parks - vital park projects, community programming, our citywide volunteer efforts, and more. This is the Chicago Parks Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser. We are thankful to our team!
Meet Vicky, celebrating 10 years of cancer remission with this year’s marathon!
IS THIS YOUR FIRST MARATHON?
I have lost count how many I have done — this is too much fun! I am a Boston and New York Marathoner, and soon Chicago Marathoner. My heart is filled with joy.
WHAT DOES RUNNING THE 2025 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON MEAN TO YOU?
My heart will be engraved with “Chicago Marathon” after completion. It will be my 3rd Star World Marathon Major. What an honor.
WHY TEAM CHIPARKS?
In the book “Fifty Places to Run Before You Die” by Chris Santella, the Chicago Marathon is ONE OF THEM!!!!! I am so lucky to be part of this team to make all of this come true!
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO’S PARKS?
I am from Montreal, Canada, but I can tell you so much about Grant Park. And I will be at the start line at Grant Park!!!! This park filled with scenic beauty makes it all worthwhile for runners. I can t wait to experience the thrill.
“This Chicago Marathon will be a celebration of my 10 year cancer remission. I am cancer free!!! Thank you to Chicago Parks for giving me this opportunity!”
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?
So many favorites: Exploring new places, connecting with nature, sense of accomplishment, improving physical health, and providing for social connection with other runners through social media.
OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
I am a long distance swimmer, I enjoy riding my bike, and I love to sit back and read books.
