Running For A Reason: Cait’s 2026 Berlin Journey

Running for a Reason: Berlin 2026

I’m running the BMW Berlin Marathon in September 2026—and it’ll be my first marathon ever.

The farthest I’ve raced so far is a “trail half” in Joshua Tree back in 2023, so this is a big jump. But I’ve got seven months, a strong fitness base, and the Train Denver community in my corner… and that makes this feel possible.

The training (aka: doing this the smart way)

I’ve been at Train since November 2020, and CrossFit—plus a solid stretch of cycling—has kept my cardiovascular engine strong even during seasons when running wasn’t really part of the picture.

Right now, I’m starting with an initial six-week training block focused on something simple (and non-negotiable): getting my legs and knees reacquainted with the impact of running before I ramp up. The goal is gradual and intentional, with one priority above all: staying injury-free.

As training progresses, running will take the lead and CrossFit will shift into more of a supporting role. And honestly? CrossFit turns out to be perfect marathon prep. The constantly varied movement keeps all those secondary and supporting muscles strong—the ones doing quiet, important work when you’re grinding through miles.

Train’s emphasis on mobility and form is also helping me build a more resilient body overall. As my running load increases, I’ll be leaning on the coaches to help adapt workouts and dial back high-impact movements when needed. They’re incredible at meeting athletes exactly where they are—and helping you keep moving forward without trying to “win” every day.

The mental side matters too. CrossFit has taught me how to push hard and know myself. How to train with intention. How to be consistent. For marathon prep, that mindset is everything.

Race day

My goals for Berlin are simple:

• Finish
• Stay healthy through the entire build (no overuse injuries!)
• Be fully present in Berlin – running for something that matters

The why

I chose Berlin because I wanted to run an international marathon with a refugee-focused charity—and the timing lined up perfectly.

I applied for a charity bib with USA for UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency), put it out to the universe, and told myself: If I get accepted, I’m doing it… even if it scares me.

I got accepted. So here we go.

This cause is personal. Here in Denver, I’ve been volunteering with two Rohingya refugee families who were forced to flee Myanmar (Burma) due to extreme persecution. That experience has deepened my commitment to raising awareness and inspiring empathy around refugee and humanitarian issues.

Running 26.2 miles felt like a way to do more—and to invite others to do more alongside me.

My fundraising goal is $5,000, and every dollar goes directly toward supporting displaced people around the world.

If you’d like to make a tax-deductible donation and/or follow along, here are the links:

👉 Donate here!
📱 Follow along: @ckoois01