Lorin Sharp (BSD) (Photo by Diana Rogers)

Lorin Sharp (BSD) knows people who have run marathons for many different causes, and she always thought she would like trying one. Then one day last spring, she saw a poster for the AIDS Honolulu Marathon (6 Months Training–You Can Do It) and felt it was perfect, offering excellent training and benefiting a cause she believed in.

This was not, however, a snap decision. "I did the reading, consulted with my husband and thought about the time commitment," said Sharp. "Everyone around you really has to be into it. My husband is a great supporter."

On December 14, Sharp will run in the Honolulu Marathon. She started her 6-month training and fundraising program at the beginning of June, training on her own for 60 miles a week and meeting with a group of runners on Sundays. There are several such groups in the Bay Area, and many more across the country.

The marathon will raise money and awareness for the San Francisco and National AIDS Foundations. Sharp is one of 75 people in her group, which is broken down into pace groups (smaller training and support groups) by ability and experience level. All ability levels are represented, from marathoners and full-time athletes to people who have never run a step in their lives.

Men and women from their teens to senior years, from all walks of life, form the groups. The majority of participants have never done anything like this before, yet ninety-eight percent of them will complete the 26.2 mile marathon.

The training program combines running and walking to increase endurance and strength with low risk of injury. "Every week we go another mile," said Sharp. "You are always succeeding, getting a sense of accomplishment. I feel good."

Sharp is still amazed at how well this huge challenge is working for her. Her pace group is now running 10.25 miles, where just a short time ago five miles seemed an impossible goal. They are training to run in the sun to prepare for warm Honolulu weather. And before the actual marathon, all participants will have run the full 26.2 mile distance.

All money raised is donated directly to the AIDS cause for research, vaccines, food, housing and medical services. Both financial contributions and volunteering are helpful. "Support of any kind is welcome," says Sharp. "We rely on volunteers to be sure we’re on track and to give us water (water stations are every mile or so)." Volunteers are being sought in all parts of the Bay Area.