UB Women's Cross Country Supports Local Runners
11/1/2012 12:00:00 AM | Cross Country
BUFFALO, NY - Recently, the UB women's cross country team contributed to the running community of Buffalo by managing a hydration station in the third mile in the Niagara Falls International Marathon. These ladies not only provided water for the runners, but also brought their energy and enthusiasm to keep the runners motivated.
The Niagara Falls International Marathon is a race that starts in the Niagara Falls area and then has runners navigate their way across the border to finish in Canada. Historically, the UB women's cross country team has volunteered in this race for several years now.
"We always enjoy doing this event because it is a lot of fun and the runners really appreciate all our cheering and clapping," said junior Hilary Swartwood. "In fact, some of them even started to dance when we clapped or did the wave for them. To see that type of enjoyment, especially when they have 23 more miles to run, reminds us all how much running does for the community and how it truly brings people together."
"Running is unique in that anyone can do it if they want to," Swartwood said. "You don't need any type of special skill. You basically just need sneakers, and some people don't even wear those. This marathon brings people from all over the world and to see so many people all running a grueling 26.2 miles together is special."
As Hilary highlighted, many student-athletes from UB enjoy volunteering in communities that are directly involved with their respective sport. Not only do these service projects provide a great opportunity to foster relationships that strengthen that particular community, but it also instills a sense pride and appreciation for their sport.
