Brian Perry Runs Boston Marathon as First-Time Qualifier

New York's Brian Perry, Associate Director, ABS, recently ran the Boston Marathon, one of the United State’s most

competitive marathons, on April 20, 2015. A first-time qualifier for the race, Brian ran in support of Team RWB, a non-

profit benefitting America's veterans.

Brian (far right) with other runners for Team RWB.

Himself a veteran of the New Jersey Army National Guard, Brian began his athletic pursuits as a way to continue the

rigorous training and scheduling he was used to during his years of service. At the encouragement of his sister, Brian

first entered the world of endurance sports with a half marathon in New York. She then prompted him to pursue a

goal of many marathon runners: qualifying for and completing the Boston Marathon. Although the idea seemed a

longshot to Brian -- having never run in a marathon before -- he set the goal and achieved it.

"Finishing my first marathon with my sister was special," said Brian. "She had so much faith in me despite my

inexperience."

Brian at mile 10 of his run.

Although highly competitive with himself and focused by nature, Brian said that he really took the opportunity to

appreciate his surroundings and run in the moment during the race. “The Marathon happened on Patriots' Day [a

public holiday celebrated especially in Massachusetts] so there is city-wide participation like no other race," recalls

Brian. "You almost think there’s a Red Sox player running alongside you, the way the crowds are screaming.”

But even before the marathon, Brian began training for his next challenge -- a Half Ironman, which he will complete in

late June. His training has focused on equal parts running, swimming, biking and strength training. He works with a

private coach to prepare for all endeavors. "Training is fun. Learning to master three sports allows me to have so

much versatility in training and it never gets boring," said Brian. "Even in one sport, there are so many aspects to

practice if you really want to see your potential. I respect time so much more than in the past and I believe strongly in

the connection between fitness, diet, and mental health."

Brian at the finish line in his Official Finisher's Jacket.

This idea also underlies the many programs sponsored by Brian's chosen charity for the race. "I am a staunch

supporter of the mission of Team Red, White, and Blue," said Brian. The organization is dedicated to enriching the

lives of America’s veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity. Inspired by

Brian's leadership with and commitment to the organization, FitchCares US has chosen Team RWB as the charity for

its summer philanthropy program.

News Date:

Thursday, May 28, 2015

• Subscribe to: This post