Barnstable Runners Taking on the Boston Marathon: Ashley Bronson

On April 16, 2012, tens of thousands of runners will line up to run the 116th Boston Marathon. Of those thousands, there will be people running from all over the world. Some will run for charity, some for the memory of others, some to beat their own record, some just because they want to see if they can.

Among those runners will most surely be Barnstable residents. We will be profiling Barnstable residents leading up to the race - letting you know who is running, why they’re running and how you can keep track and cheer them on.

Runner name:  Ashley Bronson  

Age:  26 

Profession: Special Events Director for Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Network

Marathon experience: First ever marathon although I have participated in some half marathons - including the Hyannis Half      

Reason for running: Working at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital has been an experience that has changed me for the better. There are countless patients whose stories have touched me over the years. People who never thought they would need a rehabilitation facility, people who were lucky that Spaulding was there for them. 2012 will be my fifth year coordinating Spaulding’s Race for Rehab Boston Marathon Team. Watching the pride on the runners’ faces as they cross the finish line, in honor of their own recovery, or in honor of a loved one’s, has inspired me to join the team.  

Training tip: Train with buddies, a variety of them, and certainly some that are just a bit faster than you. Mine have encouraged and pushed me and have made me a better runner while keeping it fun.    

Qualified runner or charity bib: Charity Bib - Spaulding Race for Rehab!www.crowdrise.com/ashleybronson  

Go Ashley Go!!

If you know of other Barnstable residents running in the Boston Marathon this year, please email me at Jennifer.Simckowitz@patch.com