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Why this Boston Marathon qualifier is running for the American Heart Association
"This cause is personal — and I’m running for every heartbeat that matters."
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: Blake Smith
Age: 28
From: Church Hill, Tennessee
At 14, I walked into a cardiologist’s office for a stress test, hooked up to more wires than I could count. Born with a heart murmur, there was a new concern: Idiopathic Hypertrophic Subaortic Stenosis – a condition that could change everything. The thought of losing the ability to be active was crushing.
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During the test, I asked one question: “What’s the furthest anyone’s gone on this thing?” I didn’t get an answer — until I broke the office record. Mission accomplished.
Days later, I got the all-clear. In that moment, I promised never to take running for granted. Over the years, running has become a gift I cherish, and I’ve been blessed with incredible friends and family who show up for me — traveling to races, cheering from the sidelines, and reminding me that every mile matters. Their support means more than I can ever put into words.
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Qualifying for Boston was a significant feat, but joining the American Heart Association’s fundraising team is what makes this truly special. I’m deeply grateful for the chance to raise money for a cause that hits so close to home. This cause is personal — and I’m running for every heartbeat that matters.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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