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Humbled

I’m almost at a loss for words this morning.

Happy, sweaty people

I don’t think I’ve ever really been completely knocked speechless — I’m a big fan of talking and making noise — but last night blew me away. I woke up with a giant, totally goofy smile on my face today.

Let me try to find the words to express my gratitude.

First, from the very bottom of my big, mushy heart: Thank You.

Thank you to everyone who came to JackRabbit Sports last night to support my fundraising efforts for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. The place was packed right at 6:30 and the last of us didn’t leave the store until almost 10:00, when the lights were shut off and we finally got the hint to get out.

Oops.

So many awesome people!

The positivity, energy and enthusiasm at the store last night was all electric. I was so happy and it felt like the best birthday party ever. Or something.

It just felt good.

I can’t believe how many people showed up!

My friend Mike and me. (He is not my "Handsome Friend" though he is my friend who happens to be handsome as well.)

I hope everyone enjoyed the food and the wine. My amazing coworkers came — and one particularly talented coworker was the lady behind those delicious brownies you were all feasting on.

Part of the Dance Spirit team!

(The brownie baker is on the far right — lots of you asked for the recipe, so I’ll try to get it. I know it involved something like “9 sticks of butter.” Mmmm perfection.)

Yay! Coworker bought running shoes! I'm so proud!

I was blown away by how many people snatched up the apparently-coveted “I Heart Sweat” shirts. There are a few women’s smalls and extra-smalls still at the JackRabbit Upper East Side store that will be on sale there until they’re gone. There are also two or three men’s small shirts left.

I am definitely looking to place an additional order of shirts. I haven’t figured out yet how I want to sell them online, but I will be offering another round of sales both at JackRabbit and hopefully through some sort of online payment plan for you out-of-towners. These shirts will likely cost a bit more due to shipping costs, but I will keep you posted.

And hopefully everyone who did get a shirt last night will enjoy them and start sweating in them soon!

I also got a kick out of how many people came straight from their evening runs to the event. And every time I tried to hug someone I was met with “Sorry for my sweat!”

Um. Really?

FACT.

Come on, people. I’ll hug sweat. Honey badger don’t care.

I was thrilled that Coach Cane showed up just as we were wrapping up trivia, though he did hop up on the makeshift podium to enlighten the crowd with some trivia of his own.

Maybe I had a few "That's what she said" moments. Couldn't help it.
How the F was this photo taken? Does JackRabbit have ceiling cameras?

If you couldn’t make the event, here are a few sample trivia questions for you:

  • What was the name of the dating show on MTV hosted by Jenny McCarthy and Chris Hardwick?
  • Name the five Matthews family members from “Boy Meets World.”
  • On “Beverly Hills 90210” how did Ray Pruitt hurt Donna? 
  • What was the name of Uncle Jesse’s band on “Full House?”
  • What was the name of the nightclub where the “Saved By The Bell” gang caught Jeff cheating on Kelly?
  • What is the exact distance—in miles—of the Central Park Bridle Path? 
  • Who was the first female finisher in the 2010 New York City Marathon?
  • In which direction are bikers required to ride on the main road in Central Park? 
  • How many locations does JackRabbit have and where are they?
  • “My Heart Will Go On” by the lovely Celine Dion was featured during the end credits of what movie?
  • What movie recently broke records for biggest box office opening?
  • What does Rachel mistakenly put in her Thanksgiving trifle on “FRIENDS?”
  • If you’re taking the Bolt Bus to Washington DC, what street corner will you leave from?
  • Name Ali’s favorite frozen yogurt spot in the world that is also in NYC.

Some of these were challenges for the group, but every single person in the room knew the answer to that last question. I was so proud.

Woooo!

Another highlight of last night: Many of you were on the hunt to figure out who my Handsome Friend was, apparently. I got lots of inquiries — and so did he! People weren’t shy about asking him to identify himself. Mwahaha.

I’m also humbled by how helpful everyone was. In addition to donating so generously, many people were constantly asking if anything was needed. The JackRabbit staff was ridiculously accommodating and Lauren, in from Fire Island for a few hours, took over raffle ticket duty, relieving me of lots of stress.

Whose team are you guys on?

That’s right. Team Ali. Thanks for joining.

I do wish I could have spent more time talking to every single person who was there last night. I tried to mingle, but it’s tough making the rounds!

Alright, I’m almost done raving about last night. Of course the food and drinks and shirts and jazz hands (what??) were all wonderful, but really, this event happened for a reason: to raise money for a cause I care so passionately about, CCFA.

The grand total from last night’s raffle ticket donations came to $826.

Amazing!

I won’t know how much additional money I raised from the 15% sales contributions and the T-shirt sales, but I will post as soon as I know.

And if you weren’t able to attend last night but still want to make a donation, you can do so here. Wicked easy.

So again, thank you all so much for your incredible support. This is the happiest I think I’ve ever been.

Everyone loves sweat!

And now it’s time to do some work then jump on a BoltBus. It’s going to be a sweat-filled weekend.

And again…thank you.

TELL ME: Interested in a shirt? If you are, let me know by leaving a comment so I can gauge how many I should order for round two.

Also feel free to answer some trivia questions for me. Or throw out your own. Go crazy.

Ali

Ali

0 Responses

  1. My shirt was delivered last Friday. Went for a run on Saturday, wearing said shirt. I got no less than five high fives in 11 miles. (For the record, I average zero high fives, no matter the distance or my apparel) Apparantly my San. Diego community loves sweat too.

    Point is : maybe I need a short sleeve shirt for the coming summer months. Count me in.

    Reply

  3. I am an avid reader of Emily and googled the shirt. I had no idea that the shirt actually goes to support something good! If you’re going to be ordering anytime soon, let me know…I am VERY INTERESTED!

    Reply

  6. I commented on your other post but I saw this one too, I would be very interested in a shirt!! Actually a couple, I have a ton of friends who would love them!

    Reply

  8. I love your blog!! I was just recently diagnosed with crohns this spring after going undiagnosed for nearly a year. I just joined my schools cross country team and i legitimately want to be you. Your so inspiring and i would love to buy a shirt to support you

    Reply

  12. I may have sucked at the trivia, but I had such a great time at your event the other night! And those brownies were ahhhmazing — if you get the recipe, please pass it on! I’ve seen you out running a few times but it was nice to finally actually meet you! You’re gonna rock the Hamptons Marathon (and raise a ton of money for CCF!).

    Reply

  15. I’d want a shirt even if it weren’t for a good cause…but because it’s for a good cause I want one even more!

    Reply

  23. I’m interested in a shirt if you can offer international shipping!
    – french reader currently in Seychelles but usually in Paris!

    Reply

  25. Congrats on an awesome fundraising event Ali! Depending how much the shirts are for out-of-towners, I’d definitely be interested in one!!!

    Reply

  34. Awesome fundraising ideas and what amazing support!!! Sign me up for a shirt, going to my favorite foundation!!!! XS or Small depending on how they run size wise.

    Thanks for doing such amazing work, you are a true inspiration!

    tn

    Reply

  37. As someone that was (incorrectly) treated for Crohn’s for 8 years, I have a soft spot in my heart for research to find a cure. I would be all over ordering a shirt. Mostly because I too LOVE sweat!!!!

    Reply

  43. Hi! I just found your blog through Jamie at The Sometimes Healthy Living Blog. I’m pumped 🙂 and can’t wait to read more! My younger brother has Crohn’s and has since he was 9 years old. He now plays soccer in college!

    Reply

  46. What a fun time. I only spoke to you for a minute (re: which size shirt to get) but I had a great time. Met a few cool chicks/bloggers, got a shirt and had some wine and two delicioso brownies! Your “friend” is very cute 🙂 he pour wine for me. (thanks ali’s handsome friend,) felt a bit like a stalker but the wine helped 😉 and now I have a cool new running shirt that all the cool kids are weAring!

    Reply

  47. I love the shirt. Also: I live in DC where it’s sweatier than Kermit’s swamp and I MUST HAVE THE SHIRT!!! Please, please order more!

    Reply

  50. ooh i’d love an I LOVE TO SWEAT shirt to support Ali on the Run. I’ll represent you proudly on the lake front running path in Chi-town!

    Reply

  51. Ali, I’ve been reading your blog for a few months and love it! You are such an inspiration! I live in Wisconsin but would totally love to order a shirt!

    Reply

    1. I live in Wisconsin too!!! And I’d definitely be interested in ordering a shirt…I would probably need a woman’s small. 🙂 Looks like lots of fun! And congrats on the money raised!!!

      Reply

  57. MUST. HAVE. SHIRT!!! And congratulations on such a successful fundraising event. Looks like it was tons of fun 🙂

    Reply

  62. Congratulations on it being such a success! I wish I lived in NYC so I could have come, because I totally would have!!! You are doing amazing things and you should be so so so so proud of yourself!
    When are you going to post a picture of your handsome friend?!

    Reply

  63. Umm hello — Jesse and the Rippers — duh?!?

    I forgot to eat a brownie and I am still upset over it.

    And I forgot to ask handsome friend about it culinary skills, esp the homemade pasta. Like did he actually make the pasta from scratch or did he buy homemade pasta? I have so many questions.

    Down with Crohns!

    Reply

  67. I’m so happy your event was such a huge success!! I really wish I could have been there. Seriously – I need to meet all you awesome NYC runners!

    And I love the shirts and would be interested in one! Not only to support you (obviously!) but also because my grandma has ulcerative colitis so I know first hand how devastating the condition can be.

    Have a great weekend in DC!

    Reply

  74. I would love a shirt–Medium! Not only is it awesome, but it also says Team Ali, which just so happens to be my name as well and who doesn’t want a shirt that says “Team ALI!” 🙂

    Reply

  77. I can’t believe I didn’t stay long enough for the FRIENDS question!! Clearly, I would have won that one. She put beef in the trifle. I can quote that whole scene, but I won’t. ha. And I love my sweaty shirtttt already and my roommate (who wasn’t there) is in love with it. Andddd because you didn’t announce it on the blog, I take it that means all of the raffle winners were at the event when you announced it still. Boo.

    Anyway, have fun in D.C. with Emily!! Last night was such a great event!

    Reply

  78. Congrats on such a successful event! Knew it would be!! (Although I am still bummed I missed coach cane(prob better for him though, I would have likely swarmed him with questions…), handsome friend, and everyone else from the awesome crew!)I feel proud of myself for knowing those answers- I may or may not have anxiously answered them out load as I read them on my phone. (So I won the competition against myself?! Woo!) When do all of the purchases and donations from last night show up on the progress tracker?! Come onnnn first place!!!! 🙂 (and if you didn’t get there from last night you will. I’m sure of it. Done deal)

    Have fun in DC with sweaty Emily! Good luck with the 20 miler! I’ll be looking forward to reading your running adventures for inspiration! (In general…not to pick up and run 20 though… I’ll leave that one to you…)

    Reply

  81. Ali! I’m so happy your event went so well! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart for raising money and awareness for CCFA.

    I want a shirt! Ladies medium. 🙂

    Reply

  82. Hi Ali, I’ve been reading your blog for a few weeks and just love it so much. You are so inspiring and fun!!! I would love to order two t-shirts (one for me and one for my sister), I think both in size medium 🙂 have fun sweating in DC this weekend!!! Yay!

    Reply

  83. I would definitely buy a shirt but I live in California so hopefully you can sell them online 🙂 Congrats on a great event!

    Reply

  87. Congrats on an awesome evening Ali! I was so happy I could make it an even happier that the party was still in full swing once I showed up. Can’t wait to see Central Park packed with runners wearing their I <3 Sweat shirts. I'm ashamed to admit I know almost none of the answers to the trivia questions. XO!

    Reply

  89. Congrats on the successful event! I hope you’re able to sell the shirts online, because I’m an out-of-towner who would love to get her hands on one!

    Reply

  91. YAY!!! LOVE how much support you received last night! I was there in spirit, I promise!! I would LOVE LOVE LOVE a shirt and don’t care what it costs. 🙂 Keep me posted!!

    Reply

  92. Congrats on a great event! I have been following your journey for a little while (I promise I am not creepy), and this is my first comment. What you are doing for CCFA is nothing short of AMAZING! I am in CA and would definitely buy a shirt!!

    Best of luck with the rest of your training/fundraising. I am also running a marathon on Sept. 25th so I will be counting down to the big weekend with you!

    Reply

  96. I’m interested in a shirt!

    Also, congrats on the amazing turnout. It looked like such a fun event. Those trivia questions are insanely hard – I can’t answer half of them! I hope you post the answers soon… you know, for those of us too lazy to Google.

    Reply

  97. let’s talk some bh, 90210 here. i have been called a leading expert on this show. i’ve won bh, 90210 trivia no less than 5 times. ray physically harmed donna twice – once in portland when he threw her against a wall and another time in palm springs when he threw her down the stairs. it would be improper to forget one of these. he was also verbally abusive and controlling, but let’s save that for another time.

    Reply

  102. Last night was soooooo fun! Awesome turn out with great food, trivia I didn’t know the answers to, and all my favorite people….we should do this more often. Also, handsome friend is quite handsome. 😉 Hooray!

    Reply

  103. The event was awesome last night, even though I didn’t know the answers to your trivia questions (knew some of the answers to Coach Cane’s questions). That’s a lot of money from raffle tickets! Wow! At the cashier, they were asking us (frequent Jack Rabbit customers who get 10% off), if we wanted to donate back our 10% to you. That’s so nice that they provided for that. I had a sneaker fitting while I was there. The empolyees seemed really tired — I don’t think the store is usually open that late, I think they usually close at 8PM, so thanks to JackRabbit for staying open. Have a great weekend. I think this weekend may find me running around wearing my I <3 Sweat T-shirt. 🙂

    Reply

  104. Your night sounded amazing!! Still bummed I don’t live closer. I think I’ve said it about 2000 times but yes, I want a sweaty shirt! Medium please =) Also, I heard you met one of my best friends, Christine, from These Happy Miles. Not sure if she gave you the hug from me that I asked her too but virtual hugs work too!!
    Have fun in DC!

    xo Marie
    Chocolate & Wine

    Reply

  105. Hi Ali! It was such a fun night and I’m glad I was able to stop by and meet you. I’ve packed my new sweaty shirt to wear this weekend while I’m away for sure 🙂

    Reply

  106. I live in Chicago and would love two shirts!! Congrats on the success of your event 🙂 This is the first time I have commented on one of your posts, but I want you to know that I think you are awesome and loving reading your posts everyday. Have a great weekend and good luck with your 20 miler.

    Reply

  107. Ali — would love a tshirt to support you! I know I’ve been MIA, but I’ve still been able to read your blog from time to time! I’m probably a medium, and I’d be happy to pay whatever the shipping will wind up being 😉

    Congratulations on what was certainly a very, very successful night.

    Reply

    1. The shirts will be for sale for $30ish (not sure yet the exact price) and they’re not cotton, they’re tech shirts. Very soft, super lightweight. I love mine! (Obviously hehe.)

      Reply

  115. I want a shirt!!!! Definitely! I love this, and I love how many people came and how successful this is going. I wish I could be there and for your marathon as well. It would be so inspiring to watch 🙂

    Reply

  116. Woo hoo! Yay to raising a bunch of money. I bought raffle tickets and put them all in the PB basket one. I couldn’t help myself – I just love peanut butter 🙂

    Seriously, so great meeting you! Such a fun night, even though I couldn’t pull it together for the Saved by the Bell trivia. And, those brownies were AMAZING.

    I obvi bought an I Heart Sweat tshirt because I’m always the sweatiest person at the gym, so it’s kinda perfect 🙂

    Reply

  122. i’m bussing it from boston to nyc tomorrow and might make a stop at jack rabbit sports to check it out! hurray for fundraising for CCFA!

    Reply

  124. OMG GURRRRRL. First of all, how am I just now finding your blog? It’s possible we’re twins… Second of all, I NEED that shirt (my blog’s called SWEAT=SUCCESS). Third of all, keep me posted on any upcoming NYC blogger meetup shenanigans! I would love to meet everyone! 🙂

    Reply

  126. Congrats on a great event! If I lived in the area I would have stopped by. And now (I swear, no cheating, as of now there are no other comments) my answers to trivia
    ■Singled Out
    ■Corey, Eric, Amy, Morgan, Allen
    ■Pushed her down the stairs?
    -1st band: Jesse and the Rippers. 2nd band: Hot Daddy and the Monkey Puppets
    ■The Attic
    ■No clue. 6 miles?
    ■?
    ■Right side of the road?
    ■?
    ■Titanic
    ■Deathly Hallows Part 2
    – Beef
    ■?
    ■16 handles

    Wow… I know way too much about 90s tv, not a whole lot about NYC haha.

    Reply

  127. Congrats on a great night! I would live to buy a shirt – probably a womens large since you said they run small. I hope you are able to sell them online!

    Reply

  129. My sweaty heart is proud of you and your hugely sweatastically successful night.

    Now get on that Bolt Bus and get down to DC! We’ve got sweating (and wining and gaming and laughing and celine dion singing to do!)

    Reply

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about ali

I’m the creator of the Ali on the Run blog and the host of the Ali on the Run Show podcast. I’m also a freelance writer and editor, a race announcer, a runner and marathoner, a mom, and a huge fan of Peanut M&Ms, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (way better than the first one!), and reliving my glory days as a competition dancer in the early 2000s. I’m really happy you’re here.
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