2025 has been a year of challenges. In January, I struggled with my weight and overall health. After an overnight stay in the hospital I began to focus on being a better version of myself. This wake up call was  jarring but also helped provide the inspiration I needed to finally make a change. 

As a coach and mentor I decided i couldn't just ask the students I coach to be their best if i wasn't willing to do the same for myself. I joined my players in practices, and often stayed after to work with students to help meet their individual and team goals. 

By the end of the school year, i had lost nearly 40 pounds and was feeling the best I had in years. At our end of the school year celebration a friend and coworker offered to run with me over the summer as they trained for the Chicago marathon. I was reluctant at first after having not run consistently in years, but i took those painful first steps to get back out there. To my surprise i was able to run/ walk a lot further than i had anticipated. Knowing i had multiple friends running the marathon this fall I set my mind to training for my 6th (and probably final) marathon.

Training through the long and humid East Coast summer has been both humbling and amazing. I've gone on beautiful early morning runs on Cape Cod, and explored different neighborhoods in and around Boston while adding miles to my training. I have also been very lucky to spend a lot of time traversing the boardwalks of the New Jersey and Delaware shore. 

With the constant support of family and friends i recently completed an 18 mile run. With more than two months until race day I can't wait to cross the finish line in Chicago with a huge smile and celebrate with family and friends. 

I was excited to train for the Chicago marathon both as a personal goal but also as a way to honor the legacy of my father who passed away almost exactly two years ago on race day. My dad was born and raised in Chicago. He loved to run, but as as his health began to fail  his daily walks became a barometer of what was possible as he struggled through his illness. I enjoyed accompanying him on his daily walks, and the talks that ensued and the time we were able to spend together will be memories I cherish for the rest of my life.  The idea of completing the marathon in his home town is truly special for me and has helped me push through many of the challenges marathon training provides. 

I was able to secure a bib in June by agreeing to run in support of the Chicago Run charity organization. Please help me support Chicago Run by making a contribution  to my 2025 Chicago Marathon fundraiser goal and by sharing this page with your family and friends. I would love and appreciate any and all of your support.  Every dollar I raise will advance Chicago Run's great work! 

Chicago Run empowers thousands of young people in the City of Chicago by providing equitable access to inclusive running and physical activity programs. Through the power of sport and the magic of teamwork, Chicago Run builds resilience to stress and trauma and helps young people in the city develop social and emotional skills.


Thank you and i will look forward to seeing you at the finish line! 

Mike Wahl