May 27, 2025
2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Charity Athlete Social Media Spotlight – Naomi Woodard
Naomi’s Fundraising Page: https://fundraisers.hakuapp.com/naomi-woodard
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naomi.woodard.9
What does running mean to you?
Participating in the Chicago Marathon is a deeply significant milestone for me. Reflecting on my evolution from a sprinter to a marathoner, I am filled with a profound sense of accomplishment and empowerment. This journey has taught me that with dedication and perseverance, I can achieve anything I set my mind to. The Chicago Marathon, renowned for its flat and fast course, offers an incredible opportunity to challenge myself and experience the vibrant energy of the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Moreover, sharing this experience with my Black Girls RUN! Foundation team amplifies its significance, as we collectively promote and encourage women to lead active and healthy lifestyles. Crossing the finish line in Chicago will not only mark the culmination of rigorous training but also symbolize the realization of a dream I once thought unattainable.
What are you looking forward to most about this race?
I look forward to experiencing the energy of the Chicago Marathon—the crowd support, the iconic city landmarks, and the electric atmosphere of race day. This is a full-circle moment for me, transitioning from a sprinter to a marathoner, and I’m excited to take on this challenge on a world stage. Most importantly, I look forward to sharing the course with my Black Girls RUN! Foundation team, representing our mission to encourage women to live active, healthy lives. Crossing that finish line will be a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion that brought me to this moment.
Why Black Girls RUN!?
My interest to run for the Black Girls RUN! (BGR!) Foundation is a powerful extension of my commitment to the organization’s mission. BGR! was established to encourage African-American women to prioritize fitness and healthy living, addressing significant health disparities within the community. By participating in the Chicago Marathon under the BGR! banner, I’m not only achieving a personal milestone but also amplifying the Foundation’s efforts to inspire and support women in leading active, healthy lifestyles. My involvement serves as a testament to the transformative impact of BGR’s community initiatives and the importance of representation in endurance sports.
Furthermore, my participation contributes to the BGR! Foundation’s broader goals, which include supporting local community programs, providing training resources, and expanding outreach to promote health and wellness among African-American women nationwide.
My dedication exemplifies the spirit of BGR!, and my journey will undoubtedly inspire others to embark on their own paths toward health and fitness.