Marathon Blog: Bob Cremin & David Braza
Name: Bob Cremin
Home City, State: Mercer Island, WA
Age: 78 on marathon day
Company: Retired; CEO of NY Stock Exchange Company
Name: David Braza
Home City, State: Bellevue, WA
Age: 49 on marathon day
Company: Premera Blue Cross
How long us have you been involved with Horizons and how did you first hear about us?
Bob: 2009-2010, I was in Manhattan giving a presentation to a company. I met Bob Atchinson, a Horizons Board Member, at this meeting who heard I enjoy running marathons. He asked me about running the Boston Marathon for Horizons. This is my 9th Boston Marathon with Horizons!
Dave: I have been involved with Horizons for 6 months. Bob and I have gotten to know each other over the last 2 or 3 years, and Bob convinced me that the Boston Marathon is the best marathon out there. Last November, Bob asked me if I would be interested in running and fundraising for this wonderful organization. I am so grateful that Horizons gave me this opportunity to run Boston, and I look forward to continuing to support Horizons.
Why did you choose to run for Horizons over other organizations with which you’re involved?
Bob: Horizons is so professionally managed it makes it an easy cause to get behind. I took a tour of Horizons for Homeless Children Center and was overwhelmed by the passion by the teachers/staff/volunteers to help these children and families. It was also rewarding to see how the children reacted to their care. I was inspired ever since then and knew I wanted to run the Boston Marathon for Horizons.
Dave: I grew up with 7 brothers and sisters and feel so lucky that we had a roof over our heads and were well off throughout my childhood. I chose to run for Horizons because it means I am helping the homeless children at Horizons have security and stability in their life. I am happy to have a small piece in helping them have a productive, happy life. I also agree with Bob that the dollars at Horizons are incredibly well spent.
When asking family/friends for donations, what strategies have you found to be most successful? Also, what training strategies have helped you to be successful?
Bob: The best training strategy I can give a first-time runner is never wear anything new. I would rather wear something used than anything new.
Dave: For me training, I whole-heartedly believe in REST. I believe that runners don’t know how to rest up when their bodies need it the most and that’s when we run into problems. I have learned that rest days are so important, especially when you feel an injury coming on. I also agree with Bob that you should not wear anything new.
For fundraising, I think you need to utilize your family, friends, and colleagues to help you with your fundraising goal. You also just need to be persistent. I am asking my colleagues to contribute a small portion of their salary bonus to my marathon page!
What has been the most challenging part of this experience?
Bob: I find the injuries are tough, and I think it’s mentally tough when you are running these long runs that you have a lot of time to think and overanalyze an ache or pain. I just try to worry about taking care of my body.
Dave: Finding the time to train has been difficult for me, especially during the winter. The cold weather and limited daylight is tough!
What will be the most rewarding part of this experience for you?
Bob: Conquering heartbreak hill!
Dave: I think knocking two birds with one stone is the most rewarding part. Because I am giving my time and energy raising money for an incredible charity, but I am also getting the opportunity to run the most prestigious marathon in the world!
What will be the first thing you eat after you run 26 miles?
Bob: I go to Starbucks for a coffee near the finish line!
Dave: I try to seek out a chocolate milk, but I might also join you, Bob, and meet you at the Starbucks near the finish line!
What is your ideal weather for April 15?
Bob: I am going to surprise you, and say I hope the weather is the same as last year. The more I am focused on the rain, the less I am focused on the pain of the marathon.
Dave: 65 degrees and sunny!
Please consider supporting the marathon team with a donation today and remember to cheer them on April 15th!
