Coaches
Meet Tara and Charles Elkins
Team Cleveland Coaches
Tara and Charles at the Team Challenge tent of the Napa 2009 1/2 marathon Charles and Tara Elkins are the walking and running coaches for the Napa to Sonoma Summer 2010 season!
Charles began his running career in April 2007 when he decided to live a healthier lifestyle and get into shape. He ran his first half marathon in October 2007 and then he and Tara ran the Disneyworld marathon in January 2008. Charles thought the chronic pain and symptoms in his bowel were due to the strenuous training for the marathon. After weeks of rest the symptoms did not pass. It was January 2008 when Charles was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, shortly after the marathon.
"I found out about the CCFA while looking for a charity to run for instead of just running for myself. How fitting that the CCFA will someday directly benefit me. What sealed the deal is that 81% goes directly to research. Every day that I run I find more runners just like me that have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Running has really given me a support group."
Not only has Team Challenge and CCFA been a great support group for Charles, but his wife Tara has been there with him every step of the way. "This opportunity has shown to me that my wife takes this disease as personally as I do, even though she does not have UC. I have seen her laugh with other CCFA members after the Cleveland 10K and I have seen her cry when people act as if UC is not a worthy cause to donate to."
Tara and Charles are both actively involved with the group trainings and started this Challenge together and will finish together. "I hope that it shows my family that you should do something for the greater good by donating time to help conquer something that affects a lot of people."
Since his diagnosis he has ran in numerousn races across the country, and has no plans of stopping anytime soon! "The CCFA has given me a positive way to discuss my situation with others with the added benefit of feeding my addiction, running."
The Elkins live in Medina, Ohio and have two wonderful daughters Katie (14) and Emily (9). They are small business owners and perform environmental consulting services and are responsible for maintaining compliance with USEPA regulations at Landfills.
What does Team Challenge mean to Charles? "I love the CCFA. Being part of this has given me an avenue to go out and tell my story. Holding charity events and asking for money has provided me with the avenue to educate others about UC."
"The CCFA group of runners are great people. They all care! I appreciate all of the running and money they raise. I don’t think the other participants realize that they are helping someone that is on the same running path as they are."
Meet Tara and Charles at an upcoming information meeting! Use their training schedule to make a difference in your life as well as the lives of others!