Principal Darrin Reynolds is running to be a role model for his students

"Each class is following along with my training plan by reading at least as many books each week as the miles I run."

Darrin Reynolds is running for Team MR8, which promotes inclusion and empowerment for all children. Darrin Reynolds

March 5, 2020

1 minute to read

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon runners share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston. If you’re running the marathon, you can share your #WhyImRunningBoston story here.

Name: Darrin Reynolds
Age: 46
From: Norwood, Massachusetts

Until an email last September, I was one and done with the Boston Marathon. I ran in 2015 for Team MR8, and had not planned to do it again. In the email, the Martin Richard Foundation explained that this year would be Team MR8’s last year running Boston, and they were looking for former team members who would be interested in running again. I jumped at the chance to represent this inspiring foundation for its final Boston run. Team MR8 is the running team for the Martin Richard Foundation, which provides support for inclusion and empowerment for all children. The Foundation offers financial resources to local organizations that focus on charitable giving, youth development, and inclusive and adaptive endeavors.

As the school principal of the East Elementary School in Sharon, I aspire to be a role model for the students by using my running training program to demonstrate the importance of working hard, staying disciplined, and taking action in supporting something you believe in. Each class is following along with my training plan by reading at least as many books each week as the miles I run, some classes are even doubling me up.

With my wife Colleen’s encouragement and support, I began regularly running seven years ago. I have grown to love running and I firmly believe in empowering kids to make changes in their world; running Boston this year has given me the chance to combine those two things. As a member of Team MR8, I have the opportunity to raise funds allowing the Martin Richard Foundation to continue its work of promoting sportsmanship, inclusion, kindness, and peace.

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