Why Eli Abbott Runs for the Parks
Our runners make it happen! Meet Team ChiParks in our ongoing ‘Why I Run for the Parks’ blog series highlighting members of our 2023 charity team.
The Chicago Parks Foundation has been a proud Bank of America Chicago Marathon charity partner since 2013, as well as the Shamrock Shuffle and the new Chicago 13.1.
These dedicated runners choose to make their miles extra meaningful by running on behalf of a charity. Since our start, Team ChiParks and their supporters have raised nearly $1.5 million for the parks - vital park projects, community and teen programming, our citywide volunteer efforts, and more. This is the Chicago Parks Foundation’s biggest fundraiser!
Meet Eli Abbott, running his sixth marathon this year but first in Chicago with Team ChiParks! Eli has completed the 6 Hour Ultra Rhode Island, Providence Marathon and Miami Marathon. Originally from Newburyport, Massachusetts, Eli is currently a student at Salem State University.
WHAT DOES RUNNING THE 2023 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON MEAN TO YOU?
I have always wanted to do the Chicago marathon ever since I started running longer distances. I love that it is flat and a fast course, and I am looking to PR this October.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING WITH TEAM CHIPARKS?
I am running with Team Chiparks because I believe that everything good comes from the heart and from nature. I also love being outside in the local parks and I want to help out in the best way for Chicago.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO PARKS?
I love the fact that there are so many volunteers that are willing to make the Windy City pretty and make people want to visit the local parks. I would bring the love of nature and the want to improve the areas around me for the better.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?
Just being out there and challenging myself, being the best that I can be and seeing myself improve throughout the training journey.
OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
There are so many things that I love doing in my free time. Since I live in New England, I am a big skier. I also love being out in nature, going on hikes. I am big into rock climbing. I do photography for a side business, I also drive Uber and Lyft when I get the time. I am also teaching myself to code. I love listening to music and I have so many saved songs on Spotify, over 2600+!
I also have a dog and he is my best friend. His Name is Copper. He is a Corgi Chihuahua Mix that was a rescue from Texas.