Running for Change with Around the Bay Road Race
March 11, 2019
Lina Abril is a co-president at McMaster University’s UNICEF on Campus Club and as an avid runner will be part of Team UNICEF at the Around the Bay Road Race on March 31 in Hamilton, Ontario.
Lina took a moment out of her busy schedule to sit down with UNICEF Canada and talk more about her passion for children’s rights, and how her love for sports has led her to join Team UNICEF.
Lina Abril.
First question, why UNICEF Canada?
I chose UNICEF because I am a strong advocate for children’s rights. I believe every child is equal and should be given every opportunity to succeed in this world.
What inspired you to join Team UNICEF?
I happily joined Team UNICEF in the Around the Bay Road because not only would I be supporting an organization that is aligned with my morals and values, but I would also be participating in the sport that I love. I have been a runner since I was 11 years old, and have completed many races throughout my life. By Joining Team UNICEF at ATB, I hope to raise awareness and funds within my McMaster community.
What is one piece of advice would you give to others who are interested in joining and running in the race with Team UNICEF?
Running a race isn’t easy because you undoubtedly encounter many obstacles along the way, if I could give one piece of advice to others interested in joining, I would say PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. Whether you chose to run the 5km or the 30km, you need to be physically and mentally prepared to cross that finish line!
If you had one wish for the world’s children, and our global community, what would it be?
My one wish for the world’s children, and our global community is for every child to have an education. I am very fortunate to attend university, but many children around the world are deprived of this right. Let us work in unison to help children everywhere.
To commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Around the Bay Road Race UNICEF Canada was selected as a charity partner to raise funds through this historic event. UNICEF works in more countries and saves more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization. By choosing either the 5K or 30k, you will go the distance to advocate for the rights of children while raising funds to help UNICEF ensure these rights are fulfilled.