Boston Marathon

She’s running Boston for that charity that ‘unites the defining threads’ of her life

Kailey Skarinka is running to support the United Service Organization.

By Claudie Bellanger

1 minute to read

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston.

Name: Kailey Skarinka
Age: 30
From: Fort Mill, S.C.

When I laced up my shoes for my first Girls on the Run 5K in middle school, I never imagined where that path would lead. Today, running the Boston Marathon for Team USO (United Service Organizations) unites the defining threads of my life: my passion for running, my family’s military legacy, and my professional commitment to national security.

The Boston Marathon has always symbolized the pinnacle of running achievement for me, but the 2013 bombing transformed this personal aspiration into something deeper. That tragedy became the catalyst for my career as an intelligence officer, shifting my focus from simply pursuing a personal goal to dedicating myself to protecting others from similar threats.

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With over 250 years of combined military service in my family—from my grandfather, a three-star Air Force general who flew 161 combat missions in Vietnam, to my father who piloted F-15s—supporting those who serve isn’t just a choice; it’s woven into the fabric of who I am. Though I chose a civilian path as an intelligence officer, my mission has always been clear: to serve those who serve.

That’s why representing Team USO holds such profound meaning. The USO provides essential connections between service members and their families during the most challenging times, offering comfort when it’s needed most. By running for Team USO, I can directly support this vital mission while honoring my family’s legacy.

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Boston represents more than just 26.2 miles—it’s a testament to resilience, protection, and service. While the marathon lasts only one day, the impact of the USO’s work continues long after, bridging the gap between our troops and the home they’re fighting to protect. This race isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s my contribution to a cause that defines me.

Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.

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