Mark (above, left) did a personal best of 3:07:13, and you can still contribute to his fundraising on behalf of VanIsle Mental Health Society!

Tens of thousands of runners, including some of the world’s best, crowded into Boston on a cold, lightly rainy Monday April 20, 2015 for the 119th running of the Boston Marathon. In addition to attracting elite runners competing for $830,500 in prize money, the world’s oldest annual marathon is a mecca for dedicated amateurs who work for years to meet the strict, age-graded time cutoffs they must pass to earn a coveted spot in the field. [source: CBC News]

Nanaimo’s own Mark Blackell was there, pursuing his dream of competing in the world-famous marathon — while also raising much-needed funds for Vancouver Island Mental Health Society. Mark is a board member at VIMHS (formerly Columbian Centre) and he’s seen how important mental health supports can be for people who need them.

“That was a great trip to New York City and Boston. The weather for the Boston Marathon was pretty dismal – rainy and cold. It didn’t stop the Boston fans, who were out in force. It’s a pretty amazing event here and the Bostonians are super inviting. I did a pb (personal best) of 3:07:13, so I’m happy with that. Thanks for all the well wishes!” — Mark Blackell

To date Mark has raised $2,505 for the Vancouver Island Mental Health Society. You can still help Mark reach his goal of $3,000. Just go to his fundraising page here.