Half Marathon Question(s)

shakken

Has anyone run a half marathon/event for a Chicago-based cause?

I'm thinking of running my first half marathon ever - the Chicago Rock and Roll half - and am researching causes. I think I might want to run for a cause for the extra motivation. I'm leaning towards one in particular right now but I wanted to see what else was out there before making a final decision. I'm mainly concerned because the one cause I'm looking at has a minimum that would need to be raised (which I expect they all have). But, they will charge my credit card the difference if I'm unable to meet that minimum (a bit nerve-racking/problematic for me since I'm pretty poor right now).

 So - anyone done this particular half with a cause? Anyone doing it this year?

Also - do you have any thoughts on raising money for a cause in general? Is it better to just do this myself and skip the cause the first go-around (does the cause really provide that much extra of an experience that it's worth it for a first timer, or is it more difficult in that it's easier to be overwhelmed)? Any ideas/suggestions/advice?

I know this is kind of a broad post with a lot of questions, but I'm new to all of this, so any input is appreciated!

 

brideinfall08

I've run a bunch of races and never done it for a cause.  The Rock n Roll last year was fun.  The minimums all seem very high to me and I'm not comfortable asking people for money.  I also don't want to end up paying hundreds to run a race that only costs $80 to enter.  I do think running for a cause for the marathon pays off.  Does the cause you're interested in provide training runs?  Depending on your motivation level those would be good for a first timer.  They'll have a schedule of runs and you'll be able to do it with a group so that's nice.  I know someone that ran with PAWS and really enjoyed it.  It's a great way to meet people too.  HTH a little

schaiblejen

I ran a half for Autism Reasearch one year....  and ran about 4 other half marathons, one full, and other 10 mile runs as well. 

Most of the donation pages, have a link where you can post it on your facebook, so your not really asking for money right out, but people that see it can donate.  I didnt have a problem reaching the minimum.  Also many employers will match contributions as well.   

 if your worried about not being able to reach a minimum, you could just do it on your own and dontate the money independantly once your done training.  

Mell22R

I am also running the Rock and Roll!!! I ran the Chicago Distance Classic two years ago. I did not do this for a charity and I still felt committed and movtivated to do it. Event spending the registration fee was enough to get me motivated. I thought about doing the run for a cause but I have another large fundraising event walk I do in May so I just couldn't ask it of people again. The minimums are high and it might be tough. If you don't think you would be able to get that much, I don't know if I would commit and stress yourself even more. We will have to chat in June about it!