I Joined a (virtual) Running Team

I'm generally a quiet, loner kind of runner.  I rarely even run with my own family, let alone strangers.  I'm always over-booked and over-worked, so joining a team to run in my area seemed daunting.  I didn't want to add another "to-do" to my already long list.

I also regularly listen to podcasts on my runs, especially long runs.  One of my favs--The Mickey Miles Podcast--announced the formation of a virtual running team.  I perked up a little, and thought, "Hey, it's for a good cause and who knows...I might actually get something out of it (not that I even knew what I was looking for...)."  I had been interested in running for a charity for a while, and thought the very low minimum fundraising requirement for this team was the perfect way to get started. 

There are tons of different options for fundraising, but the Mickey Milers Running Team chose to not include any travel or race fees (which honestly, I love, because I can tell everyone that their money IS actually going to the charity...not to pay my way to a race and I can include my many Disney races in my fundraising efforts).  All the money donated is going to Give Kids the World Village.  The required amount was $50, so I plunked down the first $50 donation to kick off my fundraising.  I wanted to see what I could do when it comes to fundraising, so I set a lofty goal: $2326.00--one dollar for each mile between my home and the front door of Give Kids the World Village.  Today, I'm 17% of the way to my goal (thanks to friends and family who have already donated!). 

So, I love the idea of fundraising and doing some good while putting in the miles.  That was an easy advantage to joining the team, but I've found a few more.  First, I have a relatively small online community to ask questions to and share my experiences with.  My million-dollar question was "how do I get under 2:00 in a half marathon" and honestly I've already received great advice and confidence.  Second, two weeks ago a weight-loss challenge was started, and it came at the perfect time for me!  This week's weigh-in won't be great, but last week I lost 4 pounds.  Just the kick in the butt I needed to lose the extra few pounds I've put on since the new year. 

I'm also looking forward to meeting some of the team during upcoming race weekends.  I hope to run with my new friends and I really look forward to reaching my fundraising goal!  If you are hesitant to join a running team, I highly suggest you start with a virtual option.  It seems like the perfect compromise for me and has been a great way to get started. 

Check out my fundraising page HERE!  I'd love your support in raising money for Give Kids the World.  And... since they are my running team "buddies" now, check out the Mickey Miles Podcast.  You can find them on i-Tunes :) or at their site www.mickeymilespodcast.com