100 by 100
I hope to run my 100th marathon in the year I turn 100 (in 2052).
I’ve decided, after much prodding from my friends and family, to set up this personal website to concentrate my charitable fundraising efforts and periodically update those of you interested in following me on this journey.
Please fell free to sign up using the button below to stay in the loop.
About my Journey
I was your typical ex-jock (e.g., third-string high school sprinter, college varsity judo athlete, college intramural bowler, etc.), and a pretty good skier. So I had banged up knees and ankles and a cranky hip - so one thing I stayed away from was running.
My company, Spring Mountain Capital, LP, is in the investment management business so we began to support the Robin Hood Foundation, New York City’s largest poverty-fighting organization, which was founded by some of the top philanthropically-minded leaders in the finance industry.
In 2007, out of the blue, they asked me whether I would like to run in the NYC Marathon. Here’s how that conversation went:
Me: “No way - I’m 55 and I have bad legs that are unsuited for running.”
Me: “You’re right, if I told people I was running a marathon, a lot of people would pay to see me try to make it happen. But tell you what…give me a year. I have to check in with my GP, cardiologist, orthopedist, (maybe I’ll need to find a psychiatrist too). If they’re OK with it, I’ll do it.”
Here’s the short story, which I hope to expand on over the next 28 years:
“But you could raise a lot of money and help our mission.”
One year later, in November 2008, I completed my first NYC marathon in a time of 5 hours, 15 minutes, and 23 seconds.
I was in a lot of pain as I crossed the finish line - I had been dealing with severe cramps for the last 10 miles, from the time I came off the Queensboro Bridge into Manhattan - and I started crying as I hobbled over to the volunteers handing out the marathon medals.
Despite the hard work, pain, and stress involved in training for, and running in, a marathon, I have since done it 42 more times. People ask why and I give them MY three simple reasons: It’s improved my health significantly and will likely increase my longevity; it has enabled me to raise substantial funds for the charitable organizations that I believe in; and it inspires other individuals to follow my path.
About my Goal (100 by 100)
I have set a goal of running my 100th marathon in the year I turn 100 - that would be 2052. Several of my friends suggested that I set up a website to concentrate my fundraising and tell anyone who contributes that they will be invited to the “100 at 100” party that I plan to throw if I make it to my goal.
Disclaimer: Obviously, I can’t guarantee that I will achieve my goal, a pre-condition for the celebration. In addition, you will need to keep me posted on how to contact you. That being said, I will exert my best efforts to achieve my goal and hope that you stay healthy and well enough to celebrate with me.