Faces Of Boston: Lisa Georgis

Lisa Georgis, 45

Office Administrator and mom to five beautiful kids (21, 17, 16 and 14-year-old twins)
New Ringgold, Pa.

I ran several races the got me a BQ, but my best times were at the 2012 Philadelphia Marathon and Central Park Marathon. I got a 3:34 at both, and I needed a 3:45.

I started running in 2002. I used to power walk, and then that summer my marriage started to unravel. I was having a hard day, so the next day on my walk, I started to run — not sure why — and I loved it. The following day I ran a bit more, and, by day three, I was running my entire route, and I have never looked back. I started racing when I turned 40. To date I have run one ultramarathon, 11 marathons, about 20 half marathons and too many 5Ks and 10Ks to count. In addition to my 3:34 marathon PR, my current half marathon PR is 1:39.

Why are you running the 2014 Boston Marathon?

I am running the 2014 Boston marathon for a few reasons. First, it is such an amazing experience and phenomenal race! Second, last year when I ran Boston, my hamstring popped at mile 1.5. I ran the other 24.7 miles hurt (although I did not know what was wrong at the time). I just kept throwing ice water on my leg to  keep it numb and kept going. This year I want to see what I can do. Third, I am racing it for my children to show them they can do anything they put their minds too. This is especially for my son, Noah, who has Asperger’s. He has taught me that there is no such thing as giving up. He is amazing and my inspiration — when things get tough during a marathon, I think of him and how he keeps going with such a positive attitude. I will keep going as well.

What part of the course/event are you most looking forward to?

The whole entire race is amazing, but the part that stood out to me last year was Wellesley College. The screaming and the energy were just unbelievable. The finish was pretty incredible as well.

RELATED: Meet Competitor’s Faces Of Boston

What does “Boston Strong” mean to you?

Boston Strong to me means people uniting together to support and encourage each other and show everyone that you can accomplish anything.

Who is coming out to support you this year?

My daughters, Emily and Hannah, my sons, Noah and Jordan, and my stepdad are coming out to support me. My mom has arthritis, and it is hard for her to travel long distances. My older son won’t be coming either — they will both be cheering for me in Pennsylvania and waiting to hear when I finish.

What is your race-day goal?

My race day goal is to stay injury-free and to finish between 3:30-3:35.

Check out Boston Strong, an enriched media project presented by Competitor.com