BALTIMORE, Maryland (FMG WIRE) – Peace Gwam, a resident of Washington, D.C., shared her inspiring journey and experiences as a participant in the annual Baltimore Running Festival in Maryland.
Gwam has a compelling story, her connection with running began in 2021 during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic. She recounted how the pandemic had led to stress and an unwelcome weight gain due to the imposed restrictions. To counteract this, she turned to running as a means of releasing pent-up energy and shedding those extra pounds.
Baltimore Running Festival
Baltimore Running Festival
What started as a personal fitness endeavor eventually became a profound source of joy and fulfillment for her.
Despite the physical and mental demands that marathon training entails, Gwam expresses her genuine enjoyment of the sport. She fondly remarked on the remarkable camaraderie and encouragement that pervades the Baltimore Marathon and the broader Baltimore Running Festival community.
It’s this supportive environment that keeps her coming back year after year.
Peace Gwam
Gwam’s dedication to the Baltimore Running Festival goes beyond the event itself. She revealed that she travels from her home in Washington, D.C., to Maryland to attend the festival.
For the 30-year-old Nigerian-American, this journey is a testament to the appeal of the Baltimore Running Festival and the allure of Baltimore, where the marathon takes runners on a scenic route through iconic locations like the zoo and Johns Hopkins University.
When asked about her motivations, Gwam reflected on how running a marathon represents more than a sporting achievement. She mentioned that it serves as a symbol of personal empowerment. The ability to set a goal of completing 26 miles and then accomplishing it instills confidence that extends to other aspects of her life.
Gwam sees it as a reminder that she can overcome challenges and achieve even greater things.
In addition to her journey, Gwam also emphasized the positive impact of sports, particularly running, on mental well-being.
She noted that many individuals who migrate to new places often experience feelings of sadness, and participating in sports can be a means of combating these emotions.
Baltimore Running Festival
Gwam encouraged people, especially African women, to consider adopting an active lifestyle as it can significantly boost mood, energy levels, and overall health.
As a parting piece of advice, Gwam urged young women to try out group sports, emphasizing that it’s an excellent way to make friends, particularly after college, and to maintain a positive outlook on life.
In conclusion, after her remarkable journey in the Baltimore Running Festival, Gwam’s immediate plan is to rest and recuperate, focusing on self-care through proper sleep and nutrition.
Her experience stands as a beacon of inspiration for both seasoned athletes and newcomers, underscoring the transformative power of sports and the sense of achievement they can bring.
Gwam is a living testament to the incredible possibilities that can be unlocked through determination and the pursuit of personal goals.
