Why Talia Persico 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 Talia Persico, running her second Chicago Marathon this year!
WHAT DOES RUNNING THE 2023 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON MEAN TO YOU?
I completed the Chicago Marathon last year and had the time of my life, literally smiled the whole time! Being able to run for a second year in a row means so much. Not only do I get to run the streets of the greatest city in the world, I get to come in with experience to finish stronger than I did in 2022.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING WITH TEAM CHIPARKS?
Our city is beautiful, and a lot of that beauty is attributed to our parks and nature throughout the city. I’m honored to be chosen to run on this charity team because I’m an avid park visitor and dedicate at least one Sunday a month cleaning up a local park.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO PARKS?
I love community involvement. Whether its a farmers market, fundraising gathering, intramural sports gathering, or just a picnic with friends - there are so many ways I incorporate our Chicago parks into my life.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?
Pushing myself harder than I did in my previous marathon training. I am always competing with myself and trying to PR. I have been utilizing running groups as well to keep with a pacer group and practice what it will be like on race day.
OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
Spending time with friends and family OUTSIDE. I will do any activity outside but primarily roller blading, dog-watching, or playing pickleball.