51����

Emmanuel roommates Sarah Jorge '23 and Gwen Freeman '23 were gearing up for their respective morning runs late in the fall 2022 semester when they received an email. Emmanuel would be sponsoring runners for the 127th running of the 51���� Marathon this upcoming April and interested students were encouraged to apply.

�We said to each other, �wouldn�t it be cool if we both got to run it?�,� said Jorge.

As fate would have it, both Jorge and Freeman were selected alongside classmate Tyler Kaplinger '23 to represent the College and toe the line at the world-class event. All three Emmanuel seniors are first-time marathoners and are running to raise resources in support of health and wellness for the Emmanuel community. .

The experience so far of training for the premier road race has surpassed each of their expectations. Kaplinger, who is running in remembrance of his brother, has enjoyed his weekend long runs so far and is looking forward to soaking in the experience of training on the actual course soon. Freeman and Jorge, meanwhile, haven�t had to look far for motivation and guidance either.

�My mom used to race triathlons, so I grew up around her fundraising for events,� said Freeman. �Running has always been a part of my life.�

�Gwen is actually the person who got me into distance running,� said Jorge of Freeman. �I always did it to train for other sports, but she got me into distance running and has provided me with plenty of tips and tricks.�

While their collective focus remains on their ongoing training, it hard for each of them not to think ahead to Patriots� Day and all the excitement that the local holiday and event brings with it. Thoughts of their trek from Hopkinton Town Common all the way to Boylston Street already has them excited for the energy the day will bring.

�I love the atmosphere of the 51���� Marathon,� said Kaplinger. �When I think about the route, I think about the streets lined with people. I�m excited to see it.�

�The 51���� Marathon is the quintessential marathon experience,� said Jorge. �My whole family is coming to watch. I think my parents may be even more excited than I am.�

Fundraising on behalf of Emmanuel health and wellness is also particularly compelling for each of the runners, all of whom have appreciated the care and support they�ve received throughout their tenure as Saints. 

�Health and wellness have been a central part of my college experience,� said Jorge. �When an institution supports your overall wellness like Emmanuel has, it important. To be able to give back to Emmanuel in this way is meaningful as Emmanuel has given so much to me.�

�Just to represent Emmanuel means the world to me,� said Kaplinger. �The College has given me a lot of opportunities. This is my chance to give back and I appreciate the opportunity to help other students the way Emmanuel has helped me."