Running for a Cause: 12 Marathons in 12 Months
By: Kevin Steinberg
In April last year a good friend of mine died of Cancer. A young father with 3 daughters and a wife, the story is tragic. But his family is strong, loving and going forward and enjoying life. I have exercised for many years, including completing marathons, long distance swims and triathlons, but have never participated for any causes or reasons other than for my own benefit.
However, with the loss of my friend, I felt it was time to try and do something beyond just running another race. I decided to try and run 12 marathons in 12 months. I started this quest in late June last year with each marathon being run for an individual that has had cancer with two objectives:
- remembering those that have had cancer and
- to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society
This journey has been amazing and much more rewarding then I could have imagined. Reconnecting with families that have lost a special person in their lives and providing a place for them to remember their family along with the support from others has made this an amazing journey for me. A website has been set up for this journey with a page dedicated to each person that I have run a marathon for. There is tab on the website that provides a direct link to make any donation to the Canadian Cancer Society. Thank you for all donations made.
This journey became more amazing when, after running a few marathons, I asked a couple of friends if they would like to join me in running the Vancouver Marathon. I was shocked by the response and we now have over 15 people all running the marathon, under the RunMoreThanaMarathon team, including the spouse of my friend that passed away in April last year. For her and many others this will be their first marathon. All going well, the Vancouver Marathon will be my 10th marathon in the journey.
So why do I run? I have been a runner for many years. In 1993, my wife and I moved toVancouver. I started running again on a more committed basis, and at the time I thought I’ll run for a year and then get into other activities. Over the years I have participated in many other activities, but have continued to run. Why? Well firstly it is such a meditative exercise that requires little equipment and secondly we live in one of the best cities in the world to run. The weather is always moderate, the scenery is stunning and with a combination of rugged mountain trails, and great sea view runs, how can one not run.
Running is the simplest exercise we can do and what we are meant to do. That’s why I run, what about you?
Kevin and his best running partner Monty
BIO: Kevin Steinberg is originally from South Africa. He moved to Canada in 1990. Growing up, he has fond memories of running with his dad and brothers. Whenever he travels he packs his running shoes. Married to Jacqui, they have 2 kids and the best running partner, Monty the golden retriever. He met his wife at a fun run and after many years convinced his wife to run a marathon. Her first marathon was the Vancouver marathon a few years ago. They have run the Boston and New York Marathon together. Professionally, he is a chartered accountant and CFO of a company in the property industry.