Stoneham Native to Run in the 115th Boston Marathon

Name: Rachel Pacini

Age: 24

Marathon Experience: This will be the first Boston marathon for Pacini.

Reason for running: Pacini, a Stoneham native and 2009 Salve Regina University graduate, is running as part of the Tufts University’s President’s Marathon Challenge (PMC). She is raising funds for Tufts research on nutrition and physical activity including funding programs trying to combat childhood obesity.

“It has always been a goal of mine to run a marathon and I could not pass up running with the Tufts team, as it’s an amazing program,” Pacini said. “Everyone is so motivated and very supportive from teammates, coaches, professors and the President of Tufts.

Training tip: The commitment and training for the Boston Marathon is a grind and Pacini has been pushing herself to get into the best shape possible before the big day.

“It is nine long months of pushing yourself, planning and discipline," Pacini said. "PMC holds team runs every Tuesday morning for interval training, moderate distance runs on Wednesdays and long runs every Sunday which usually involves some hill running and, of course, runs are also done individually on the days PMC doesn't meet.

"PMC also organizes four marathon course runs throughout January, February and March to test out the course and Heartbreak Hill.”

Food/nutrition: Pacini has been eating normally throughout her training experience.

“I have been keeping myself hydrated and eating nutritionally-balanced meals as I am a nutrition student," Pacini said. "The biggest difference in my eating habits is the quantity and frequency of my snacking. I'm always hungry and crave random foods after runs like chocolate milk or popsicles.

"Also, after runs the PMC coach, Don Megerle, always has the back of his SUV loaded with snacks and fluids. He has bananas, strawberries, peanut butter and jelly, jelly beans, small cookies… you want it and he will get it for you.”

Importance of event: Pacini knows participating in such a large-scale event is an honor.

“It means a lot. This training has been challenging and emotional, but well worth the fight,” Pacini said. “When I'm exhausted and dragging myself to get out of bed to run, I just always think to myself, you’re running the Boston Marathon, think of what that means.

"I know that when I cross the finish line I will be ecstatic, but at the same time, in tears, knowing I have not only accomplished running a marathon, but the Boston Marathon.”

Mindset: “I'm so anxious, nervous and excited. I feel like I could run tomorrow,” Pacini said. “I know that when I step up to the starting line I will be filled with adrenaline, but I'm going to do my best to focus and run normally like any other Sunday long run.”