Why Kevin Chan 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 2024 charity team.
The Chicago Parks Foundation has been a proud Bank of America Chicago Marathon charity partner since 2013, as well as the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle and the Bank of America 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 over $1.5 million for the parks - vital park projects, community programming, our citywide volunteer efforts, and more. This is the Chicago Parks Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser!
Meet Kevin Chan, running his fourth marathon this year!
Kevin has previously completed Maraton de Madrid, Rock N' Roll Arizona, and the 2022 Chicago Marathon.
WHAT DOES RUNNING THE 2024 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON MEAN TO YOU?
Marathons like the Chicago Marathon bring together people from diverse backgrounds with a shared passion for running and supporting the communities around them. This is an opportunity that celebrates personal and community achievements through a vibrant running culture. I am very excited to give back to the wonderful city of Chicago and hit the streets with my friends and family.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING WITH TEAM CHIPARKS?
Although I do not reside in Chicago, I am an avid supporter of many local park foundations. As a runner, we get to experience the natural green space every time we step outside our doors. Sustainable parks provide countless opportunities for growth (mentally and physically) through running by offering an escape to a natural environment. Running would not be the same without our parks!
“As a runner, we get to experience the natural green space every time we step outside our doors. Running would not be the same without our parks!”
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO PARKS?
Living in Arkansas, we are privy to miles of trail systems of natural forest. I remember my first Chicago marathon experience and turning a busy street corner on a shakeout run into Millennium and Maggie Daley Parks. I immediately got lost in a sense of calm and wonder by running through the gardens and groves. Any nervousness about the following day's marathon fell away as I was reminded of the green space back home and what an opportunity it was to be in Chicago to run.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?
My favorite thing about training for the Chicago Marathon is finding a sense of community around the wild things we do as runners. Plan routes around all the community bathrooms? Definitely. 4am long runs? Sure! Circle the parking lot to get the mileage right? Absolutely. Going to bed early on a Friday night so I can get up for that 4am long run? No doubt.
OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
Apart from running, I'm an avid foodie, which marathon training allows me to indulge beyond capacity. I love spending time outside with my two dogs hiking, biking, skiing, and climbing. I'm a water treatment engineer by day and moonlight as an amateur content creator. Very excited to showcase the Chicago Marathon and support Chicago Parks in October!
