Why Alfonso C. Runs for the Parks
Our “Why I Run for the Parks” blog series highlights members of our 2026 Team ChiParks charity running team.
The Chicago Parks Foundation has been a proud Bank of America Partner Charity since 2013, with teams running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon (October) and Bank of America Chicago 13.1 (June) with us annually. New for 2026, we also have a small group of Team ChiParks going to the Marathon de Paris (April)!
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 over $2.5 million for the parks. This is the Chicago Parks Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser, bringing in unrestricted private funds to help our public parks thrive. We are thankful to each and every member of our team, and we’re excited for you to get to know them!
Meet Alfonso, making a return to running with the Chicago 13.1 this year!
Alfonso has previously completed six marathons and three half marathons. After taking a break since 2020, this year’s Chicago 13.1 with Team ChiParks will mark Alfonso’s return to races!
WHAT DOES RUNNING THE 2026 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON MEAN TO YOU?
To run the Chicago 13.1 is to rejoin the running community and reconnect with myself.
WHY TEAM CHIPARKS?
Since my first marathon, every race has had a purpose, from running for loved ones to bettering myself. In this case, for something greater and lasting like our parks. Also as a way to remember and honor my father.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PARKS?
Chicago parks, to me, I didn’t realize it back then when I was there more often - they were hope and they will mean hope. I grew up in Back of the Yards and Davis Square Park had a gated turf soccer field. That field to my friends and I was everything. The fact that that we had an area were we could feel free, to be ourselves but most importantly to have a goal to aim for (literally and metaphorically). That is hope.
Now I see a baseball diamond with bases marked, and a kid has got something to swing for and run for. Same thing with any other sport. To have resources like that - there’s no telling what some kids can do.
“Chicago parks, to me, they were hope and they will mean hope.”
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?
Training breaks and builds you in body and mind. Every effort shows you endless possibilities of everything that your are capable of doing.
OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
I coach youth soccer in the Midway area.
