Community Corner

Mass Eye and Ear Needs Runners for Boston Marathon

Join the team to achieve a life goal and help out those in need.

Need an official entry for his year's Boston Marathon? Looking to support a great cause? Then the Massachusetts Eye and Ear may have a bib for you.

"We have 12 more spot on your team," said Kristina Sym, director of events for Mass Eye and Ear.

The hospital will once again field Team Eye and Ear for the 2013 Boston Marathon. The team, comprised of marathon novices and veterans alike, raises money for the hospital's research programs. The 54-person team runs the gamut from novices to one runner with over 100 marathons under his belt, said Sym.

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Ready to join the team? You can apply to join Team Eye and Ear by visiting www.MassEyeAndEar.org/marathon, or by contacting Kristina Sym at (617) 573-6364 or marathon@meei.harvard.edu

Since 2006, Mass Eye and Ear raised $1.8 million by running a marathon team. That money find the Schepens Eye Research Institute for research and patient care, according to the hospital. The team is led by renowned marathon coach Fred Tresler.

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"Our coach, Fred Tresler, is really one of the premier coaches in the marathon industry," said Sym. "He is an incredible resource."

The bib comes with some responsibility. Runners who join the team must meet a $5,000 fundraising goal by May 15. In return for that level of commitment, Mass Eye and Ear offers its runners advanced marathon training, a warm place to meet during training, team swag, a chance to meet marathon great Katherine Switzer and bathrooms close to the start line on Marathon Monday. Check the team website for a detailed list of obligations and benefits.

"There's a ton of support on our team," said Sym. "We don't just give you a number and send you on your way."

Are you running the marathon this year? Have you signed up to raise money for Mass Eye and Ear or another charity? Let us know who you're running for and how folks can help your cause in the comments below. 


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