Why Olivia Beargie Runs for the Parks
Meet Team ChiParks in our ongoing ‘Why I Run for the Parks’ blog series highlighting members of our 2025 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 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 $2 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. We are thankful to our team!
Meet Olivia Bergie, running for the parks and for a friend.
This is my second Marathon! The first Marathon I completed was the Madison Marathon. I had the honor of completing it during my senior year of college—Go Badgers!
WHAT DOES RUNNING THE 2025 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON MEAN TO YOU?
This marathon holds a deep personal significance for me. I grew up in the Chicago suburbs, and the city has always been an important part of my life. It also meant a lot to my friend and mentor, Sarah Herd, who passed away last year.
Sarah had a special connection to Chicago—she grew up nearby and, after graduating in 2023, moved to the city to start an exciting new chapter. She was full of ambition, joy, and a love for life, and I want to honor her memory by running this marathon in her name while raising money for a cause she would have loved.
Beyond that, this race is an opportunity to challenge myself, both mentally and physically. Sarah always believed in living boldly, and I want to carry that spirit forward as I take on this journey.
WHY TEAM CHIPARKS
Sarah had an incredible gift for bringing people together and making everyone feel included. She had a way of creating a sense of community wherever she went, always making sure no one felt left out. I know she would have deeply connected with ChiParks' mission of fostering community and bringing people together in a city as big as Chicago.
The work ChiParks does to create spaces where people can connect, share experiences, and build lasting relationships reflects Sarah’s spirit. Running on behalf of Team ChiParks is my way of honoring her legacy—celebrating the friendships she nurtured and the inclusive, welcoming energy she brought into every space she was part of.
“The work ChiParks does to create spaces where people can connect, share experiences, and build lasting relationships reflects Sarah’s spirit.
Running on behalf of Team ChiParks is my way of honoring her legacy.”
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CHICAGO’S PARKS?
I love how Chicago parks give people a chance to slow down and appreciate the moment. Life moves fast, and it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of day-to-day responsibilities. But parks offer a space to pause, breathe, and be present—whether that’s going for a run, spending time with loved ones, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.
Olivia at her first Marathon in Madison
There’s something really special about the way these green spaces bring people together in a city as big as Chicago. They remind us to appreciate where we are and who we’re with, and that’s something I deeply value.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TRAINING FOR THE CHICAGO MARATHON?
I love listening to true crime podcasts while I run! They keep me engaged and make the miles fly by. Plus, I have to admit—I always run a little faster when I pass someone while listening to an intense part of a story!
OTHER THAN RUNNING, WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
Right now, my free time is mostly dedicated to studying for the CPA exams as I work toward becoming a Certified Public Accountant. When I’m not training, I’m usually buried in books and multiple-choice questions—which makes running a much-needed break from all the studying!
I’m beyond excited to take on this marathon, honor Sarah’s memory, and support Team ChiParks in their mission to build a stronger, more connected Chicago community.
