Ashland
“I am running for Ashland and its many wonderful community programs and services”, shares 45-year-old registered nurse Margaret Kironde Musoke.
The mother of four has spent years watching the marathon and it’s this annual event that reignited a love of running that she had in her younger years.
“I have told my kids for many years now that I would like to run the Boston Marathon one day. And now I get to achieve one of my dreams while financially contributing to Ashland’s programs and services. I am so thankful to my town for the opportunity. I am also so thankful to my family, friends and local businesses that have supported my fundraising efforts and training runs in many ways.”
“Watching the Boston Marathon is a family tradition for us now. It brings so much joy, fun and togetherness among all kinds of people and generations. I hope that my children will be among the next generation of Boston marathoners. I’m honored to be running in the oldest annual marathon in the world. Being an Ashland resident has given me the opportunity to fulfill my dream and give back to my community as well.
Margaret decided to partner with local businesses to reach her fundraising goals.
“I approached several businesses in town and asked to collaborate with them. During the fundraising event, I mimic jogging and talk to customers and engage them in what I am doing, and they are often keen to support me and the local business at the same time. I’ve been able to increase traffic to some businesses, including first-time visitors, and in turn they have kindly donated a percentage of their sales that day towards my goal. My last fundraising event, a bake sale, was at Plymouth Church in Framingham. It's been fun!” It's been fun!”
Running her first marathon, it’s been a learning curve from day one.
“Training has been hard and fun. I have learned that warming up before and cooling down after is so important yet easy to overlook. I have had plenty of advice on nutrition as well and this has helped me a lot.
“I’m amazed by other runners' willingness to share their experiences and techniques and knowledge to help me navigate my first marathon. Thanks to Vernon Turner who invited me to learn from team Framingham, coach Dan and the Heartbreak, and our Ashland runners' group. The empowering and cheering that goes on during training runs by fellow runners is also a sign of the Boston marathon team spirit.
“I am really looking forward to race day. I am excited to run with other people from all over the world through my hometown. I'm looking forward to enjoying the energy from the people that are cheering for us but mostly going through my town and seeing my family and familiar faces.”