Marlborough Resident Runs for a Cure

Name:  John Tanner

Age:  46

How Many Times Has He Run the Boston Marathon? Seven times in Boston and also Chicago, New York City and Newport, RI. Internationally, Tanner has run in Berlin, Germany, Iceland, Dublin, Ireland and Toronto, Canada. Tanner also does several 5K and 10K races throughout the year. "I'm not sure exactly how many marathons I've done, but it's definitely 20 plus," said Tanner.

Why Does He Run? "As a kid, I would watch the Boston Marathon in Ashland," Tanner explained, "I told myself that someday I want to run in it." Not only did Tanner achieve his childhood goal and then some, there is a special little boy that keeps him running. 

Nicholas is the eight-year-old grandson of Tanner's co-worker and family friend. He is fighting Batten Disease, a rare, incurable genetic disorder. Each year, Tanner runs to raise funds for Nicholas and other families caring for children and young adults stricken by Batten Disease. For more information on Nicholas, his family and this progressive disorder, visit the website.

What Does He Do to Train? Tanner is a member of the Highland City Striders here in Marlborough. "For the Marathon, I do a 16-week program. I peaked at 40-50 miles in a week, running 16-18 miles on weekends. At about two weeks before the Marathon, I started doing five to six miles three times a week."

Why does He Love to Run? "The outpouring of support is amazing. No matter what city I'm in, I see nurses and doctors on the sidelines cheering me on. It keeps me going for Nicholas."

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date on the latest Marlborough news, or simply hit the "like" button at the top of this page. If you'd like to receive the daily newsletter with our top stories, click here.