261 Blog

Dive into the world of 261 Fearless


Meet Allison from our 261 Fearless Boston Marathon Team

"We are all Fearless as we work through our own personal struggles." Team member Allison Eagan has experienced more than her fair share of struggles. Read how she plans to make Boston 2018 her 'comeback marathon'.

How did you learn about 261 Fearless?

Last year (2017) I was scheduled to run Boston. When I registered to run the race, I had no idea at the time that I was actually going to be scheduled to have back surgery just 3 days after running Boston. Needless to say, I did not end up running Boston but still went to Boston to cheer on some friends. During the race and in the days leading up to Boston, there was a lot of publicity surrounding 261 Fearless in recognition of the anniversary of Kathrine Switzer’s historic Boston run. I had read her book many years ago, Marathon Woman, so I already knew about her but it was even more intriguing to me as I was reminded once again of how her triumph and perseverance paved the way for my ability to compete as a woman today. When I read more about the mission of 261 Fearless I was totally on board and wanted to find a way to get involved.

Why do you want to run for 261 in Boston?

As a result of my back surgery and subsequently three months of spinal precautions with NO RUNNING, I was unable to get a marathon qualifying time in before this year’s registration. Initially devastated as I had wanted Boston 2018 to be my “comeback marathon”, I once again researched the 261 Fearless organization. What better way to get involved with this organization and return to Boston still for my “comeback marathon” which will occur four days shy of one year post back surgery.

What makes you Fearless?

We are all Fearless as we work through our own personal struggles and everyone’s struggle is “real” and “unique”. Personally, my struggles have always been mostly health related struggles. Despite having a chronic autoimmune disease since the age of 18, I have managed to complete 18 marathons with a PR of 2:56:19 and will complete my 19th marathon just shy of one year after back surgery required from neurological issues in my right leg, I consider myself Fearless!! My personal motto is “Never Give Up”!

What are you most excited about when it comes to the Boston Marathon?

This Boston Marathon will be my fourth Boston. Each Boston has been an amazing experience. I am very excited by the tradition of Boston, its lure and the fact that there is not another race like it. I am very excited for this Boston as I have competed on many different teams before (high school, college, post collegiate, running club, sponsored, etc.) but I have never competed for a team that is on a mission to support a mission!

What is your claim to fame? 

I ran my first marathon as a senior in high school at the age of 17 (3:09:59)

Contact us

 

261 Newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter!

 

Become a 261 Coach

and change women’s lives

» learn more