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Be Inspired

On October 11, Sarah Shields is going to run the Bank of America Chicago marathon. Her inspiration comes from one of her students, Monique. “Having a student that participates in Girls in the Game was definitely a motivating factor in getting involved with TEAM GIG,” says Sarah.  “I think it's really been a good motivator to know there is actually someone I know who will benefit from my running.”

Sarah sees firsthand how Girls in the Game impacts Monique. Last month, she even had the opportunity to watch Monique cross the finish line at the Southshore Triathlon. 

“Monique is more outgoing and willing to take risks now that she has been a part of Girls in the Game,” explains Sarah. “She is able to see the influence she has on younger girls and what a role model she is.” 

As a teacher, Sarah knows how important it is to set a good example and teach kids how to live healthy lifestyles. “I know that being active will help keep me healthy,” she says. “This is a message I want to instill in young women, whose self-esteem is so fragile and so easily influenced by the media and others who may not have their best interests at heart.”

By racing with TEAM GIG, Girls in the Game’s Charity Race Team, and achieving their own personal race and fitness goals, runners like Sarah help educate the community about the lack of opportunities for girls to get active and healthy. 

“To be healthy is to be beautiful, and keeping ourselves healthy will help keep us happy,” Sarah shares. Ever since her dad passed away from cancer, Sarah says that being healthy is the number one thing she can do for herself. Now, she eats healthier, exercises more and inspires young minds to do the same. “I love how, after a long run, I feel like my body can do anything,” adds Sarah, while explaining how running makes her feel strong and more sociable.  

Girls in the Game is honored to have Sarah on board helping to create more opportunities for girls to get a healthy start. TEAM GIG builds awareness and support of Girls in the Game by raising funds and promoting active and healthy lifestyles. TEAM GIG members choose a racing goal and the organization helps them achieve it, while they raise money to help Girls in the Game keep Chicago’s girls happy, healthy, and strong. Team members don’t have to strive to complete a marathon to join the team. TEAM GIG members like Sarah run marathons, half marathons, 5K’s, 10K’s or any race they choose.

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