Team "Lead Strong CSX" Takes on Running Festival

Buildling on the company's commitment to the well-being of its employees, four managers from CSX's Baltimore Terminal were among the field in the city's Under Armour Running Festival on October 10. Through a combination of individual drive, teamwork and preparation, they proved they were up to the challenge.

The Baltimore CSX Lead Strong Team, from left to right: Jason Bradt, Jim Lafave, Chris Ramsey, Will Blanchetti.

The idea to participate began during a "walking" meeting – one of the measures suggested by CSX Health & Wellness to help improve fitness among the company's managers and employees.

"I [announced] that there was a team relay in the marathon, and asked if anyone was interested in competing," said Trainmaster Will Blanchetti. "I was pretty sure individually that I wasn't prepared for the 26.2-mile marathon, but thought at my level of fitness our team could conquer the relay legs of 5.8, 7, 6.1 and 7.3 miles."

The response from his colleagues was a resounding "yes." When the horn sounded at 8 a.m. Saturday morning, 20,000 runners charged through the starting gate, with CSX in the pack. The team wrapped up the race with a total time of 4:34:35. "It was success through teamwork," said Blanchetti.

Aside from the satisfaction of running the race under the CSX Lead Strong banner, Blanchetti had extra reason for celebration. Less than a year earlier, overweight and out of shape (by his own admission), he decided to make a change. His commitment to better nutrition and regular exercise led to a 75-pound weight loss. Running in events like this one are just another step towards his overall healthier lifestyle.