In June 2011, I was fortunate enough to run a 10K in Paris while studying abroad. I had never run a full 10K before, but I beat my PR 5K time during the first half of the race, and again on the second leg.

I have never been more proud of myself in my whole life, and from the moment I crossed the starting line, I was hooked. The atmosphere of the race, the enthusiasm of the other runners--and yes, the French can be very nice people--and the comradery among everyone present was awe-inspiring.

Now, just over a year later, I aspire to run another 10K on my second study abroad trip to London.  On the eve of the 2012 Olympics, it is my hope to pound the pavement--or should I say cobblestones!--in another of the world's largest and oldest cities. After my running experience in Paris, I felt a true sense of 'community' with those who lived and worked in my arrondissement. Although I will be living in and studying at Oxford(!) and not directly in London, I still expect to find a connection with the 25,000 other runners at the race in sharing a true "local" experience. For more information on the British London 10K, please see their website at: http://www.thebritish10klondon.co.uk.  Be prepared to be (very) jealous; the race route is unparalleled for its famous sites.

In addition, running the British London 10K will give me an opportunity to give back to the greater London community. STUBS, the organization for which I am fundraising, gives back to service men and women injured in Afghanistan by sponsoring their attendance at various sporting events. Athleticism is an enriching and rewarding part of my life, and sharing this joy with some of the UK's finest is a very worthy cause.

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Thank you for your support and happy running!