Boston Marathon 2015 Runner Profile: Megan Hempstead, of Jamaica Plain

Name: Megan Hempstead

Age: 30

Profession: Research Program Coordinator

Marathon experience: 5th marathon overall, and 1st Boston!

Reason for running: Running hasn’t always been a part of my life. I started to stay in shape physically but over the years it has become an important part of who I am, and now it’s just as much about the emotional and social benefits. I’ve shared many races with friends and family, and I am so grateful that I’ve met so many amazing new friends through my neighborhood running group, the Jamaica Plain Pavement Junkies (JPPJs). And I enjoy the process of setting and achieving a goal, and the Boston Marathon is the ultimate goal. I have watched the marathon every year since moving here in 2008; it is my favorite day in Boston, and I am so proud to be participating as a runner this year.

Charity: I qualified for Boston, but decided instead to support the fundraising efforts of friends. Another JP resident, Jen McCutcheon, is running for the MR8 Foundation.

>>> Click here to view the charity page and/or to make a donation.

>>> See also- Boston Marathon 2015 Runner Profile: Jen McCutcheon, of Jamaica Plain

Training tip: Everyone is different and there is no “one size fits all” for training. Do what works for your body and what you enjoy. I choose lower mileage but more cross-training – I’m a spin addict! Also, never underestimate the power of positive peer pressure; I would never get out of bed to run at 6 a.m. if it wasn’t for my running group.

Bib number: 13042

If you’re running the 119th Boston Marathon on April 20, Patch wants to recognize you.

We’re putting together brief profiles of local runners, and we want to include you! To be featured on Jamaica Plain Patch, email a photo and your responses to the points above to Jamaica Plain Patch editor Mike Bednarsky by emailing michael.bednarsky@patch.com