First In, All In: Gretchen Nitz for TeamALS

Sarah Brandt, Director of Development

October 13, 2024 | Chicago

TeamALS is made up of so many special athletes — all with unique stories that led them to make the same special dedication, running to support those battling ALS. Let’s meet some of the incredible team members, from the first person registered to the last!

Gretchen Nitz is a beacon of determination and compassion! Returning for her second marathon (she ran her first-ever with TeamALS in 2022!), she was the first to secure her spot on the TeamALS roster for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon this year!

What inspired you to get an early start to register the marathon team this year?

I worked at the Run to Defeat ALS booth at the 2023 BoA expo, where I got to meet a lot of people that were running, and learn about who they ran for. Cheering for them on race day was thrilling, and so I signed up immediately the next day.

Can you share a bit about your training routine leading up to the marathon?

I ran five days a week in 2022, normally at 6:00 AM. I like biking more than running, so I used it to help with my cardio base.

Do you have any unique pre-race rituals or superstitions?

Not really, but I’m terrified of being late and will get up overly early for race day.

How do you plan to celebrate crossing the finish line?

By getting a beer, hugging my family and friends, and not taking my medal off for days.

If you could give one piece of advice to fellow runners, what would it be?

Not all of your runs will be amazing with that beautiful runners high, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to run the marathon. Just keep putting those miles in and think of your why.

Any additional message you’d like to share?

Running a marathon is hard, living with ALS is harder. We are doing this for the best cause, and I’m proud to be running alongside all of you.

Visit Gretchen’s Run Page Here