Why Erik Mantor 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 Erik Mantor, running his first ever marathon this year! Erik completed the Bank of America Chicago 13.1 earlier this summer, and will complete the full 26.2 in October with Team ChiParks.
WHAT DOES RUNNING THE 2023 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON MEAN TO YOU?
For me, training for the marathon has been part of a major theme in 2023, which is focusing on my health, mentally and physically. Last year (2022) was a tough year for me and my wife, full of continuous frustration and disappointment as we tried and failed to grow our family. We found ourselves lost at the end of the year, and we resolved to take back our lives and let life play out. Though training has had its share of ups and downs, it’s a journey that I can say is my own and it’s a tangible avenue to help me grow.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING WITH TEAM CHIPARKS?
Nature and the outdoors have always been something that is a part of my life. I’m an environmental engineer, so naturally helping the parks is something that is important to me!
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO PARKS?
I love how parks bring everyone together. In a world where everything is divided, the parks seem to be places that bring everyone together. During the pandemic, gathering in the park was one of the only ways we could see friends safely. They helped us grow and maintain community, and we love using them on any occasion!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?
The community with CARA has been awesome. I’m an extrovert and likely was a yellow lab in a previous life. I love meeting people and the running community is so positive and welcoming!
OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
I love any and all sports and love traveling. My wife and I love doing a 2-3 week trip every year and exploring new cities. We always find ourselves trying to explore all of the cities by foot and bike where possible so we can catch all of the sights! Newest favorite city is Budapest.