Boston Marathon - Bruce Graf

The Claddagh Fund

I have the distinct honor of running in the 2019 Boston Marathon, and to raise charity monies for the Claddagh Fund.   The Boston Marathon is the most prestigious marathon in the world, with a storied 123 year history.   What really makes the Boston Marathon great are the fans.   The vast majority of the 26.2 mile route is lined with Boston fans cheering you on.   If you put your name on your running singlet, the fans will call your name out and give you personalized encouragement.

This is not my first Boston Marathon.   I first ran in 2003 and have completed 14 Boston Marathons altogether.    Last year I did not have a qualifying time.  I had prostate cancer and surgery in 2016 from which I am fully recovered and have run a few marathons.   However, I never got the speed back in my legs to earn a Boston qualifying time.     My motivation to run this year is family.  My nephew David qualified and is running in April.   I have the chance to run with him, side by side, through the streets of Boston, in front of the greatest fans in the world.   I can’t wait for Patriot’s Day!

Which leads to the Claddagh Fund.   Although raising monies for the Claddagh Fund is clearly my ticket to the Boston Marathon, I want to emphasize that I am truly honored to help this worthy cause.   I researched the Claddagh Fund before signing up, including looking up their IRS 990 forms.   They are not only a cost effective, honorable charity, but they have a cool, inspirational story.

The Claddagh Fund was founded in Boston in 2009 by Ken Casey of the Dropkick Murphys.  Ken, his bandmates and their families have supported charities throughout the history of the band.  Understanding the power of their position to harness the passion and generosity of their fans, the Claddagh Fund was created to raise funds for and broaden their impact on worthy, underfunded non-profits that support the most vulnerable individuals in our communities.    Charities that are supported by the fund include charities that provide opportunities to vulnerable and disenfranchised youth populations, cancer research, veterans groups and support organizations, and numerous alcohol and drug recovery charities.   They have also expanded their funding to charities in Philadelphia, broadening their impact.  Every year, hundreds of thousands of dollars are distributed to these worthwhile causes.

It is quite inspirational to see how a relatively small organization was able to raise so much funding for so many worthy causes.   I am proud to run in the Boston Marathon and raise money for the Claddagh Fund.   Please help me raise funds for the Claddagh Fund by donating today.

Thank you!

About The Claddagh Fund

The Claddagh Fund was founded in Boston in 2009 by Ken Casey of the Dropkick Murphys. Ken, his bandmates and their families have supported charities throughout the history of the band. Understanding the power of their position to harness the passion and generosity of their fans, the Claddagh Fund was created to raise funds for and broaden our impact on worthy, underfunded non-profits that support the most vulnerable individuals in our communities.