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She picked up running at age 45. Now at 61, she’s on track for her Six Star medal.
Andrea Nwamarah is running Boston for the MEB Foundation, which supports healthy youth lifestyles and growth.
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. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.
Name: Andrea Nwamarah
Age: 61
From: Simpsonville, South Carolina
I am registered nurse working at my current employer for 26 years. I took up running at about age 45 by taking a “Walk to Run” class at my local YMCA.
While driving to work, I would see people running and always thought, “That looks cool. Maybe I should give that a try.”
I tried the class out, and it was harder than I thought to run. Some people are naturals at it and make running look easy. I am not one of the naturals. That class at the YMCA culminated in a 5K. I distinctly remember almost two miles into the race asking a race volunteer, “How much farther?”
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I registered for a half marathon and started training with a group for my first full marathon. I am now on a journey to receive my Sixth Star at Boston.
Running Boston is an honor as it is the most prestigious marathon and the most difficult to gain entry. I am grateful to have been granted the opportunity to run the 130th Boston for charity. I admire those who are able to qualify and also those who are great at fundraising for their teams.
I am running and raising money for the MEB Foundation. The MEB Foundation encourages youth to engage in healthy lifestyles, and encourages academics and leadership skills through running and sports. I have gained a lot from my running journey — lifelong friends, travel, and belief in myself. I am running Boston to give back a little of what I have received.
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Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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