FAQ

• How many miles is a marathon?
  • 26.2 miles
• Do I have to run complete marathon to participate in this program?
  • No. We encourage participation at a level you feel comfortable . half marathon, 10K run, or a 5K walkathon.
• Which marathon will the team be running?
  • The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon (www.chicagomarathon.com) on Sunday October 9th 2005. One of our runners is going to run marathon in Argentina, the same day as Chicago marathon. The Chicago Half Marathon (www.chicagohalfmarathon.com) on September 25th is our choice for runners who wish to participate in half marathon.
• What is Asha for Education?
  • Asha for Education is a non-profit organization engaged in the task of providing basic child education in India. To read more about Asha's charter and projects please visit the Asha for Education (linked) web site.
• What does Asha provide?
  • Marathon training package - comprehensive training program conducted by professional, experienced runners.
  • The opportunity to network with past marathoners.
  • Buddy runs.
  • Race registration.
  • Clinics on running techniques, injury prevention, nutrition, gear selection.
  • A celebration tent at the finish line where you can relax, chat with your fellow teammates and enjoy this accomplishment together.
• What kind of commitment is expected from the runners?
  • 4-5 months of training (train with a team once or twice every week)
  • Weekly training schedule will be pursued individually.
  • Raise the minimum amount of funds to support the cause of basic education of underprivileged children in India.
• What do we do during training?
  • We provide schedules for every day training. Well-paced training program consisting of hard training days, easy training days and cross training program etc.
  • Opportunity to draw from the experience of past marathoners.
  • Opportunity to learn running techniques and tips for injury prevention & diagnosis, nutrition, gear selection etc.
  • Buddy runs (share with past participants and people who've raised funds)
• What are the event costs?
  • Your training costs $125 per person. Other costs include marathon registration (we will negotiate a charity group discount), race t-shirt, and food/drink supplies during long runs.
• How much money actually goes towards the cause?
  • Not more than 15% will be spent on operational costs. We guarantee that at least 85% of the funds you raise will go towards the cause, maybe more if we limit the operating expenses.
• I have never raised money for a cause. How do I raise the dollars?
  • The backbone of the fundraising campaign will be a letter writing campaign (participants write letters to their friends, colleagues, family asking them to donate for the cause)
  • There are several traditional notions about asking for money that you will need to overcome. Once you overcome these inhibitions, it is really an easy task. People will be glad to support you in the cause. Many people find donating money an easy alternative to committing time.
  • Other fundraising strategies will be shared. - Last year, the Asha Silicon Valley team of 40 runners raised over $160k. Almost all of them did this for the first time in their life. It's highly doable and it's a fun experience too!
• What happens if I don't make my fundraising minimum?
  • All the volunteers of Asha for Education, will assist runners in coordinating fundraising efforts for the marathon on a pro bono basis. However, at the end of the program if you fall short of your commitment. Asha for Education, will secure payment through credit card or check. Asha has to ensure that it raises enough funds to cover all of its' costs and maintain ongoing projects.
• Where do the funds I raise go?
  • The funds raised will go towards some selected projects. You will have the opportunity to learn and even choose the projects you'll help raise money for.
• When does the program begin? Is there a last date to join?
  • The program begins on Apr5th, 2005 at the Shamrock Shuffle. You have until July 2nd to withdraw, although we hope you will never have to do that. There will be an initial registration fee that you will lose if you choose to withdraw. We will also charge you for any costs our organization may have incurred on your behalf.
• I'm in! Where do I go from here?
  • Register for the program.
• I want to know more?
  • Contact us.