PEABODY— Mayor Edward A. Bettencourt Jr. will run in the Boston Marathon this year to raise money for the Cops For Kids with Cancer organization.
The organization is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization focused on raising funds to assist families of children fighting cancer and improving their lives.
Bettencourt said he decided to run because he was inspired by the Peabody Police Department’s efforts to support the charity and started his training program with Peabody High School track coach Fernando Braz last month.
“I have been doing circuit training ― a combination of running, biking, work on the treadmill and work on the elliptical,” Bettencourt said. “I’m not going out and running every day; I’m mostly spending my training in the gym. I have lost 12 pounds already.”
Joining Bettencourt on this 26.2-mile journey are Peabody Police Chief Thomas Griffin, Sgt. James Harkins, Peabody Firefighter Michael Coleman and retired National Grid foreman Raymond Brady. Bettencourt said there will be fundraisers for the charity six to seven weeks before the marathon.
“We’re going to be holding one on April 13 at In the Game on Lowell Street,” Bettencourt said.
This is not Bettencourt’s first time running the Boston Marathon. He first ran in 2002. He joked that he was more experienced back then, but added that this year’s race has more meaning for him.
“I think so many of us have had or known a family member or loved one who has had cancer and I have always been touched and inspired by those people,” Bettencourt said. “Over the years, I’ve seen the Peabody Police Department put money towards this charity and I wanted to support that as well. Tom Griffin and members of the police department have motivated and inspired me.”
According to the fundraising website, Bettencourt’s team has raised 5 percent of its goal ($2,375 out of $50,000).
Those who wish to donate online can do so at https://copsforkidswithcancer.org/peabody-pd-marathon-team-2022/ or send a check to Peabody City Hall at 24 Lowell St. or the Peabody Police Department at 6 Allens Lane.
