We recently heard about a particularly extraordinary Boston Marathon Story, and it involves Larry Grogin, a 59-year athlete who took part in last year’s Boston Marathon. On April 13 he’ll set out to run 250 miles from his home town of Franklin Lakes, N.J. all the way to the Boston Marathon and average about 32 miles a day. A long-time volunteer for the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, an organization founded by Paul Newman that helps children suffering with serious illness, Grogin was running for his favorite charity that day and was just turning the corner toward the finish when the first bomb exploded.
“I have run hundreds of marathons all over the world, but the Boston Marathon is like no other. Filled with patriotic messaging, people saluting, crowds cheering and chanting “U-S-A”…it is hard to describe the incredible vibe,” he said.
Like so many, he did not get to finish the marathon that day and has a very hard time forgetting the horrible unfolding of the day’s events. Having been told by the police to get away from the scene, Grogin was unable to help victims of the tragedy and suffers from tremendous “Survivor’s Guilt.” He is, however, inspired by the remarkable children at Hole in the Wall Gang Camp and has now made it his mission to help raise funds for a cause so dear to his heart. Continue reading The Hole Nine Yards and Much More!