Here at Project AWARE, we’re firm believers that when scuba divers come together, we have the capacity to make great strides for ocean protection. Our global network of divers, ocean advocates and marine conservation volunteers is steadily growing, and our efforts are making a positive difference for our planet. Through our online environmental community, My Ocean, we’re connecting divers and ocean enthusiasts from across the globe in shared interest for ocean recreation and concern for our underwater world. 

Just last month, two of our supporters globe-trotted in pursuit of their support for ocean protection: running the Chicago Marathon as a Project AWARE fundraiser for Project AWARE. Liz Parkinson, a dive professional based in the Bahamas, and Aria Fortgang, a dive professional based in Florida, US, each hopped on planes and met up in Illinois, US to run their hearts out for our ocean planet. Not only did they gracefully lead their teammates through the gruelling challenge of a 26.2 mile run, they blew their fundraising goal out of the park and contributed over nine thousand dollars to Project AWARE in support of our marine debris and shark conservation work!

Want to learn more about this dynamic duo? Check out our short interviews with each of them below:

Aria Fortgang

How did you get involved with Project AWARE? And why did you decide to run in the Chicago Marathon as a Project AWARE fundraiser?

I’ve been involved with Project AWARE since 2002 through my scuba diving instruction and marine conservation efforts. As a dive boat Captain, I have the great opportunity to meet and learn from a diverse group of like-minded enthusiasts who have the same love of the ocean and all it has to offer.  I always teach my divers to remove trash, debris, and harmful objects from the ocean and it is these small steps that magnify over thousands of divers to promote a healthy reef for all to enjoy.

I decided to run in the Chicago Marathon because I truly believe in the mission of Project AWARE. I am honored to have become a part of your conservation efforts. Just seven short years ago I laced up my first pair of running shoes, now I have the confidence, training, and ability to run 26.2 miles – I’ve grown to love the sport.

How did the race go? What challenges did you face?

The first challenge I faced was flying out of Jacksonville, Florida to Chicago, Illinois. I had to first secure my home for the pending Hurricane Matthew and then I managed to get the last flight out before mandatory evacuation orders were issued. This was a bit stressful mentally as we evacuated to safety, but did not know if our home would be standing when we returned from Chicago.

The Chicago marathon was absolutely awesome! This was the most enjoyable marathon I have participated in to date. The support, race course, spectators, and complete venue was nothing short of outstanding. The race was certainly a challenge – back home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, we don’t have hills. Chicago had some difficult hills that put extra stress on the knees. I just took them slowly, one at a time. Even a seemingly small hill will slow you down at mile 22 when you are already tired. But, I persevered.

What were your takeaways after the race? Did you enjoy yourself, and would you do it again?

I definitely enjoyed myself and feel the race was a great experience. To have the support of family, friends, and colleagues during my training and fundraising was necessary in the achievement of my goals. I would do it again in a heartbeat, as long as they continue to provide beer at the finish line!

Liz Parkinson

How did you get involved with Project AWARE? And why did you decide to run in the Chicago Marathon as a Project AWARE fundraiser?

I have been lucky enough to be involved with Project AWARE for a number of years. It began when I became a PADI Dive Instructor and continued as I started traveling the world teaching SCUBA. I made sure during my travels that Project AWARE ethos were a focal point at all the places I decided to work.  Now that I find myself in the Bahamas, I can really put my energies to more specific Project AWARE goals like Dive Against Debris™, shark conservation and Project AWARE fundraisers.

I have been a member of the ‘Run for Sharks’ team for a number of years. Recently I was made manager of the team, so for me it was an easy decision as to who I wanted to run for – of course it’d be Project AWARE!

How did the race go? What challenges did you face?

I had a great race. Not only did I do my personal best time, but I loved the route. Up to this point I had never been to downtown Chicago. I had seen the city several times flying in, but never had the chance to explore – what an incredible race course and city.

The most challenging part of my race was actually making it to Chicago in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew. Having to change my flight three times, arriving at 9pm the night before the race, getting up at 5am to get my race package and facing a chilly (by Bahamian standards) Sunday morning I finally made it to the starting line two and a half minutes before my wave started – anything for the sharks!

What were your takeaways after the race? Did you enjoy yourself, and would you do it again?

I love being outdoors and active. Combining this with a fundraising campaign makes it that much better. Absolutely loved the race, totally worth it, already signed up for next year!