Name: Joe DiLeo

Running History: Began running in earnest in 2005, and completed the Long Island Half Marathon in 2006. Improved my time in the half-marathon this year. Chicago will be my first full marathon.

Why run for TWV?: Spent two weeks in Africa last summer on a church medical-mission team, and hope to go to Kenya next year. Meantime, this is something I can do stateside to help the cause, and serve as a teammate too.

My goal is to raise $10,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Garrett Spitz

Running History: I ran cross-country all throughout high school but that was really just cross-training for my main events in Track and Field, which were the high jump, the 110 meter high hurdles and the 400 meter hurdles. None of which are "distance" events (the high jump actually only involves running only about ten steps). I also participated in various sprinting events here and there. I ran Varsity Track and Field for one year at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA before I "retired" from the sport. Since then I have run sporadically and focused most of my attention on intramural sports and the wonderful game of Ultimate Frisbee.

Why run for TWV?: I surrendered my life to Christ while serving the needy on a short-term missions trip to Reynosa, Mexico. God intervened in my life through that trip. That is why I can confidently say that World Vision is doing the work of Christ in addressing people's spiritual and physical needs throughout the world and it is an honor to contribute to that work by running this race. Additionally, it will be a joy to train for and complete this race with friends from the church that I came to faith in.

My goal is to raise $5,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Your name: Leslie Maxey

Running History: Became obsessed in college with running and haven't stopped; 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathon, Marine Corp Marathon

Why run for TWV?: to turn a hobby into getting to know others and support a good cause

My goal is to raise $1,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Donna Brady

Running History: Occasional jogger for most of adult life, trained for a ran first marathon last October. Very excited to do this again!

Why run for TWV?:The last time I ran, I raised money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. It was a great cause and the heartache of sickness that many suffer really motivated me during the training. World Vision, this time, is a cause that breaks my heart. I whole-heartedly believe that it's appropriate for me to experience the endurance trial that training for a marathon is (at least it is for me!). It helps me to identify with suffering and motivates me to be more vocal about the need to be a part of relief. I'm running the Chicago Marathon because World Vision is a part of it. I'm running to bring exposure to the injustices that we gloss over everyday when we stand in line for fancy coffee. :0) I want to make a difference in one family's life this fall.

My goal is to raise $5,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Steve Tomlinson

Running History: I ran track back in high school as a sprinter but I always shied away from long distance running.

Why run for TWV?: After I saw Pastor Keith Boyd of Trinity Baptist Church say he was going to run the marathon knowing that he was in his 50s, I realized the cause is great enough to push myself to do the same. It is good for my body but it's better for the kids in Africa. And no... I'm not 50 yet.

My goal is to raise $5,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Ben Manu

Running History: First time runner

Why run for TWV?: To help raise funds for World Vision and to try to finish a marathon which has always been a dream of mine.

My goal is to raise $3,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Matt Merker

Running History: I am new to running! I've always liked the idea of being in shape, but have never disciplined myself to exercise consistently. I do play a lot of ultimate frisbee, which keeps me active. I am excited to train for the marathon and get into shape by challenging myself to such an audacious (you might say crazy) goal.

Why run for TWV?:
I joined Team World Vision because I am inspired by its passion to bring healing to the world in the name of Christ. My goal is that every step I run might represent the hope that World Vision shares with those who are suffering. As a follower of Jesus, I cannot sit idly in apathy while those in other parts of the globe endure pain and difficulty. I must identify with them. The marathon not only symbolizes my prayerful solidarity with children who are in need, but is also a tangible means to be part of the solution. World Vision's proven success at providing water wells, disease prevention programs, agriculture initiatives, education systems and most importantly spiritual support to countries like Sierra Leone and Lesotho makes me proud to partner with them for the causes of fighting poverty and magnifying the renown of Christ throughout the world.

My goal is to raise $5,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Jane Chun

Running History: Ran the NYC Marathon 10 years ago and handful of 1/2s

Why run for TWV?: Sounded fun and it was for a worthy cause with a great church.

My goal is to raise $10,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Names: Jack & Lauren Becker

Running History: (Jack) I have been running off and on for the last 25 years. I trained about 15 years ago for the NY City marathon but did not get in. Since then I have run to stay healthy. (Lauren) I have run with my Dad since I was little. Played soccer and ran cross country in high school.

Why run for TWV?: (Jack) This year a hit a major life milestone – I turned 50 years old. I have always wanted to run a marathon and thought I would celebrate turning 50 by running. When Jerry came up with the idea of running Chicago and working with World Vision to raise money for children in Africa it seemed like a perfect match. Plus I get to run with my daughter! (Lauren) I thought it would be an awesome goal to accomplish with my Dad.

Our goal is to raise $10,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor us...

Name: Fred Doulton

Running History: None. Began running in 2008; first longest run ever was 4 miles on 26 April. By 14 June, I had reached 10 miles. The motivation and fellowship from the Shelter Rock Church team is amazing! We carpool and run most Saturday mornings at Bethpage State Park. We begin with a devotional and a prayer and then begin running. Mark B., our team mate, sets up two coolers of water for the group! Thanks, Mark!

Why run for TWV?: Running strengthens my faith, because it is not by my effort that I can, but by the Holy Spirit. The work of World Vision inspires me to run with a purpose.

My goal is to raise $5,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Erica Valentino

Running History: I have run four half-marathons (three in Nashville, TN and one in Little Rock, AR) but this will be my first ever full marathon!

Why run for TWV?: I am excited to run with a group from SRC for the purpose of meeting peoples' spiritual and physical needs. I am running to support World Vision's mission of raising funds for communities to become self-sustaining through clean water, nutritious food, education, medical care and economic opportunities in the name of the gospel.

My goal is to raise $500. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Mark Bevilacque

Running History: Never ran more than 3 miles, never particularly enjoyed running. I weightlifted for thirty years, three to five times a week. I like weightlifting because you stand, sit or my favorite... lie down.

Why run for TWV?: During the Lenten season I heard about Team World Vision and running in the Chicago Marathon to help raise money for the children in Africa who have been affected by the AIDS virus. In the beginning of Pastor Steve's sermon, my wife leans over and says "do it, because you like doing that stuff." I told her, "You know I don't enjoy running plus my knees have been hurting for seven months from my Lyme Disease attack."

The sermon that day was on the "Grace of God" and what God has done for us. Here is God sending His Son to teach us that He hates sin so much He will separate His Son from Him and Jesus will take the full force of sin for all Mankind, past, present & future to remove the stain of sin because God loves us so much. So, Jesus shed His blood for us in seven ways knowing full well what was ahead for Him and was completely in control of all the events.

I walked out of church with my head pounding, finally starting to understand the significance of what God's Grace means and the significance of shedding blood.The next weekend I went to service alone and when the marathon was brought up I said to myself, "I will do it." I feel embarrassed to be complaining to myself about my knees hurting and here God gave His life for me and there are children in the world who could use my help.

My goal is to raise $10,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: John & Peggy Turano

Running History: We've been running recreationally for many years and have entered 5 and 10K races, but we've never run more than about 7 miles, so 26 miles seems big! But we have big help, wide and long and deep and high, and everything is possible!

Why run for TWV?: We're delighted to be running with Team World Vision to support its good work. Please pray for the children World Vision is supporting, who lost their parents to AIDS.

Our goal is to raise $5,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor us...

Name: Patrick Turano

Running History: I have been running since 9th grade. During my high school career, I ran indoor and outdoor track for four consecutive years. While I did not continue to run competitively in college, my ultimate frisbee team kept me running and in good shape.

Why run for TWV?: There are several reasons why I am running the Chicago marathon. While none of them are truly profound or awe inspiring, they work for me. First, I want to challenge myself. I have always tried to maintain proper physical health, but I feel that I have never tested the full limits of my body. I think running a marathon, whether it is in 3 1/2 or 5 hours is a perfect way to start. Second, I have the utmost respect for World Vision and all the missions work they do around the world. I feel honored that I am able to run with such a caring organization.

My goal is to raise $1,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me and my parents...

Danielle CName: Danielle Caroleo

Running History: I have been running for approximately 5-1/2 years. Running has been more of a leisurely activity for me and an opportunity to exercise, clear my mind and connect with God.

Why run for TWV?: I have decided to run this marathon for a couple of reasons. In the fall, I was praying for an opportunity to do something that would be physically challenging and involve great discipline. I felt God answered with this opportunity to run the Chicago Marathon for the World Vision Team. Since I started running, I have toyed with the thought of running a marathon but considered it more like "wishful thinking". However, I realize that sometimes we can have these dreams and goals and unless we BELIEVE and bring them before the Lord, they never come to fruition. Running for a cause makes it even more of a reason to do it!! Over the past few years, I have been blessed with the privilege to serve as a youth leader and go on a few missions trips. Those experiences truly opened my eyes to how people in other parts of the world live. I became more aware of how blessed I am to live in this country and have all that I do. I think God also used those experiences in my life to break me free from idols of materialism and "things of this world" are not as significant anymore.

God has blessed me in many ways. Now it is my chance to give back and help those who are less fortunate then myself. Won't you please consider giving to a cause that is worthy and one that helps those who are in desperate need?

My goal is $5,000. This can only be achieved through your generosity, support and willingness to help others. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

JoyceeName: Joycee Kurien

Running History: This is my first marathon.

Why run for TWV?: I think it will be a new and challenging experience for me. I think this marathon will be serve as an opportunity for me to raise money for a charity and help those in need.

My goal is to raise $500. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

TWVlogoName: Richard Randall

Running History: None

Why run for TWV?: stay in shape, raise funds for Team World Vision

My goal is to raise $500. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Joan Mogil

Running History: 5 NYC Marathons, 12 Long Island Newsday Half-Marathons. These are the main races. I have run others, but too numerous to list.

Why run for TWV?: Even though I have run several marathons, this one has a very special meaning to me. It will be the first time I will be running with and for God. Running with a meaning takes on a whole new perspective, and I look forward to this challenge.

My goal is to raise $1,500. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Jeremiah O'Sullivan

Running History: Growing up as a kid I was never very good at organized sports but once I hit H.S. I realized I could run, not fast but far. However, I really only started running on a consistent basis about two and half years ago as a way of relieving stress in my life. Running has turned from a stress reliever (I run a lot these days) into a passion and something that I enjoy doing and hope to get better at. I have run a half marathon and three marathons during the last two and half years. A goal I have set for myself is to run a marathon under 3:15 to qualify for the 2009 Boston Marathon running for Team World Vision again.

Why TWV: I have been able to unite a passion for running with my passion for the church through Team World Vision. I believe that the people of God in community is the most powerful institution on planet earth. I believe that when we work together through Christ with the power of the Holy Spirit, God's people can solve problems like world hunger and disease.

My fundraising goal is $10,000.00 God has provided almost half of that money already and I am hoping He would use me and the Chicago Marathon to raise the rest in the coming weeks leading up to October 12th race. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Boby Manu

Running History:  1st time marathon runner (never ran more than 4 miles at one time in my life)

Why run for TWV?: I'm running b/c i felt a burden for those who struggle for things I take for granted everyday. 

My goal is to raise at least $7,000 dollars. Hopefully more though! Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Ellen Murphy

Running History: I ran all through my 20s, 30s and 40s then did not run much the last 10 years. Started running again April 08 when Peggy Turano asked me to train for Chicago with her.

Why run for TWV?: World Vision seems like a great organization. I am a social worker and they do work that I believe in.

My goal is $2,000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Dominic Dantona III & MaryAnn Dantona

Running History: (Dominic )I've run in four 5ks, this is my first full marathon. I run with the various sports teams that I am on. (MaryAnn) I ran in a 5k Turkey Trot, this is my first full marathon!

Why run for TWV?: (Dominic) I am running with TWV as a personal challenge as well as to help raise money for World Vision. (MaryAnn) I am running with TWV in order to raise money for World Vision, to be a part of this team, as well as challenge myself physically.

We hope to raise $5,000. for World Vision. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor us...

Name: Dave Miles

Running History: I started running seriously five years ago. I've run numerous 5K races and about 9 half-marathons and 9 marathons. My last two marathons (2007 New York and 2008 Boston) I've broken the three hour barrier.

Why run for TWV?: For some time I've been frustrated by my inability to affect change in some of the worlds great problems. This is one small way that I can begin to do this. To me, this is living out the Kingdom of God right now. Check out my blog for more information: davemilesonline.com

Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

Name: Steve Bock

Running History: I've been a runner most of my adult life, more in some seasons than others, and I've enjoyed the experience when I manage to get out and pound out a few miles. I've even run a few 5K and 10K races and even the Bix 7 in Davenport, Iowa (twice), mostly in the distant past. The longest run I ever managed to eke out before this current training effort was about 8 miles and that, too, was a long time ago. I am absolutely awed by what God has enabled me to do in this season of training!

Why run for TWV?: World Vision is a pre-eminent humanitarian relief organization that serves people in some of the most poor and difficult-to-reach areas in the world. They are renown for excellent aid programs that bring lasting hope and help to hundreds of thousands of people each year in 100 countries! They are also famous for being able to provide relief following natural disasters, even in places where other organizations, like the Red Cross, cannot reach. Our team's goal is raise funds to support World Vision's relief efforts in Zambia, one of the poorest nations on earth. To read about World Vision's efforts to bring help and hope to this country, please click here. I'm also running to try to keep up with Joe, Mark, and Jack and the others! But I'll never catch up to Jerry!

My goal is $3000. Please click here, if you would like to sponsor me...

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