Meet the 80-year-old running a virtual Boston Marathon

To see the full WCVB/ABC News report and video, click here: https://www.wcvb.com/article/meet-the-80-year-old-running-a-virtual-boston-marathon/33998356

BOSTON —

The traditional running for the Boston Marathon did not happen in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This week, thousands of runners have completed that 26.2-mile tradition in a new and virtual way.

80-year-old Bill Schawbel decided not to run as in years past but trained for and ran the 26.2 miles on his treadmill. He finished in 7 hours.

This year Schawbel won’t have to climb Heartbreak Hill, but he still raised lots of money for his favorite charity, Junior Achievement.

The worldwide organization encourages and educates young entrepreneurs, just like Schawbel was when he was at the Boston Latin School.

“You build confidence,” Schawbel said. “You learn teamwork, you learn innovation, but you understand that there’s a reason to make a living.”

He said the organization changed his life. He eventually started and sold his own companies, and over the years he has raised thousands of dollars for organizations on the course.

Young entrepreneurs across the world are cheering on Schawbel, and he says he’s not done yet.

Schawbel says to keep an eye out for him back on the traditional course in 5 years, when he’ll be 85.

Visit JA.org to get more information about their programs, to donate, or to volunteer.