Hello!
I'm Heather Santucci, a stay-at-home mom who has been active my whole life, but in 2025 began running more consistently. I ran the Cambridge Half Marathon in November 2025 with little to no training, so when the opportunity to run the Boston Marathon fell into my lap, I decided to go for it! You could call me determined, but those who really know me know that I'm just too stubborn to NOT accept this challenge. Project Just Because in Hopkinton, MA is the perfect charity for me to support because it supports the people in my very own community. They are a group of amazing people who do amazing things every single day to help people in need of support. It has been a perfect combination of checking the Boston Marathon off of my bucket list, taking time to prioritize health and exercise, showing my daughters what it means to work hard to achieve a goal, and helping a worthy charity.
My Running History
I usually participate in a handful of annual races in the community including The Celtic 5k in Worcester, MA, the Tarentino Strong Road Race in Leicester/Auburn, MA, the Clearpath for Veterans Journey Home 5k/10k in Devens, MA, the DAV 5k in Boston, MA, and a few others. I usually do these races with my mom and sister and, since having babies, am almost always pushing a stroller. I have run 2 half marathons, both of which I was extremely underprepared for! I imagine the 2026 Boston Marathon going 1 of 2 ways: 1) I check 26.2 off of the list and vow to never do that again OR 2) I fall in love with it and 26.2 becomes a lifestyle...we'll see!