Milford's Guerriero Named to Marathon's 2020 Inspiration Team

The Hartford Marathon Foundation (HMF) has announced the final selections of the Eversource Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon 2020 Inspiration Team, presented by Bank of America. This year’s team highlights inspiring individuals who have made a positive difference to support local charity, advance social justice efforts or serve their community during these difficult times as a first responder, military or healthcare professional. The eight members of the team are participating in virtual race events October 8-10, a community wide movement with purpose providing 100% of registration fees to benefit local charities.

After being trained in Mental Health First Aid last year, Laureen Guerriero, of Milford, shared her personal story last spring to reassure others they are not alone in mental health struggles. A tireless supporter and dependable, go-to volunteer for Mental Health Connecticut, an Official Charity partner of the race, Laureen was moved by seeing the intense mental health struggles so many have felt during the pandemic.

For her mental and physical health, her personal goal is to achieve between 7,000 and 10,000 steps a day. She feels the benefit of being outdoors and daily movement is her secret to staying well, mentally, physically and spiritually – especially during COVID.

“I feel so lucky to live in Milford as there are great walks along the beach. My favorite spot to recharge is the Coastal Audubon Center, walking on the beach there and observing from afar the vast amount of shorebirds and wildlife,” said Guerriero. “It all helps me to forget about the pandemic and day-to-day anxiety. Walking has especially helped me stay connected to my friends during COVID. I schedule regular socially distance walks with close friends here in Milford and with friends in other parts of the state to keep my sanity.”

As co-chair of Mental Health CT's (MHC) Development committee, Guerriero has spent the last two years coordinating volunteers, manning the charity booth in Bushneall Park on race day and cheering runners on during the race. She is excited to walk the 5K since it’s virtual this year and hopes to gather friends and walk/run two 5Ks between October 8-11, raising a minimum of $200 for MHC.

“This year, more than ever, we need to share inspiring stories from our community and work hard to stay connected to the purpose of this beloved local tradition,” said Beth Shluger, CEO of the Hartford Marathon Foundation and Race Director of the Eversource Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon. “The pandemic may have changed our physical presence in downtown Hartford, but we hope that the passion and dedication represented by our Inspiration Team will inspire more in the community to move with purpose, whether they run, walk or just want to get involved in something positive.”

Bank of America presents the 2020 Inspiration Team:

Joe Slepski, Wethersfield, CT – Marathon

Lisa Lentz, Southampton, PA – Half Marathon

Barnaby W. Horton, West Hartford, CT – Grit & Gutsy 4 Challenge

Laureen Guerriero, Milford, CT – 5K

Michelle Osuch, Southington, CT – 5K

Jennifer Zayas, New Britain, CT – Marathon

Mary Janco, Torrington, CT – Half Marathon

Mary Kay Rendock, Windsor, CT – 5K

“Bank of America is proud to recognize individuals who comprise the 2020 Inspiration Team and trust they will influence others to support those that have experienced a greater impact from the health crisis,” said Joe Gianni, Greater Hartford market president for Bank of America. “When faced with challenges that exist and have accelerated and intensified during the global pandemic, these are a few of the individuals in our local community who said, ‘We need to do more.’”

Members of the 2020 Inspiration Team will receive a special piece of team apparel, extra donation to be matched by Bank of America for the Official Charity of their choice and profiles within the Eversource Hartford Marathon Insider’s Guide.

The Eversource Hartford Marathon Inspiration Team, presented by Bank of America, recognizes individuals whose determination and perseverance serve as an inspiration and motivation for others. The team concept was developed by HMF in 2011.

About the Hartford Marathon Foundation

The Hartford Marathon Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994 to create and manage fitness events that inspire people to be healthy and fit. Located in Glastonbury, Connecticut, the Hartford Marathon Foundation organizes more than 30 annual athletic races, including the Eversource Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon, and training programs for youth runners. For more information, visit http://www.HartfordMarathon.com and on Facebook at HMF Events, Twitter at @RunHMF and Instagram at HMF_Events.