BU Athletic Trainer Runs Boston Marathon!

At Boston University, two standout members of the women's ice hockey program are embarking on a marathon challenge. Assistant Head Athletic Trainer Emily Gibb and Assistant Coach Megan Myers are gearing up for the prestigious 128th Boston Marathon, each supporting a cause close to their hearts.

Gibb supports Mass Eye and Ear while Myers runs for AKTIV Against Cancer, aiming to raise at least $5,000 each.

Myers, new to BU in May 2023, was inspired by Gibb’s commitment to the marathon. Their training regimen, intricately balanced with their hockey responsibilities, involves early morning runs or adjusting schedules to fit rigorous long runs.

Despite the demanding blend of coaching and marathon training, both Myers and Gibb have successfully fundraised thousands for their charities.

Their dedication extends beyond personal fitness goals; it serves as a powerful inspiration to their team. Tara Watchorn, head coach of BU's women's hockey, sees their effort as a vital role model behavior.

"It’s really cool for [the team], just like we always say, ‘We’re coaches and support staff, but we’re role models.' You can still continue to train and set goals and achieve them… I think it’s really cool for the girls to see that. They’ve been supporting [Myers and Gibb] a lot, and they’re excited to cheer them on, too.” 

For Myers, this race represents the most challenging athletic endeavor of her life, surpassing even her professional hockey career with the Boston Blades. Her passion for the sport and dedication to her training culminated in a memorable 12-mile run before the Beanpot Final, capturing the spirit of Boston and its sporting culture.

Gibb, accustomed to distance running, has tackled her training amidst Boston’s harsh winter, bracing for possibly warm conditions on race day. The weather, as unpredictable as it is, plays a crucial role in their preparations.

While Myers and Gibb train mostly separately due to pace differences, the shared challenge has brought them closer, fostering a deep connection over the common hardships of balancing professional responsibilities with intense marathon training.

As race day approaches, the BU women’s hockey team stands ready to cheer them on, drawing lessons from their trainers' resilience and commitment. Watchorn encapsulates this sentiment:

"In anything that we do, they support each other just like we do as teammates, and I think that helped push through any doubts."

The marathon endeavor by Myers and Gibb is not just a test of physical stamina but a demonstration of their leadership, inspiring their team and embodying the true spirit of perseverance and teamwork.