Matsoff leads fundraisers in his first big run
By Susan Paprcka, for SBT
When 56-year-old Marty Matsoff signed up for the Walt Disney World 26.2-mile marathon for charity, not only had he never run in a marathon before, he had never really ran before in his life.
But it’s amazing what personal motivation can do.
At the Jan. 12 event held in Orlando, Fla., Matsoff raised $22,000 and led the country in fundraising efforts for Prevent Blindness America, one of the charities that participants can represent. The cause is near and dear to his heart because of his daughter-in-law, Angie Matsoff, an accomplished athlete who also participated in the race. Angie was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration 10 years ago and was declared legally blind by the age of 17.
"She is a beautiful woman, both in appearance and attitude," said Matsoff. "Instead of feeling sorry for herself, she has excelled personally as a wife and mother, and athletically competed in several Ironman competitions, marathons and ultra marathons."
To prepare for the marathon, Marty Matsoff joined the Prevent Blindness America’s marathon team, TEAM 20/20. As a team member, he received professional training, nutritional counseling, injury prevention tips and the support of a team. Matsoff, whose motto was: "In it to the finish," completed the marathon in 6 hours and 32 minutes – just under the 7-hour requirement to receive a medal and officially finish the race. He had trained more than 600 miles preparing for the marathon.
Matsoff’s son Chuck, Angie’s husband and Ironman athlete, agreed to train and run the marathon with Marty to help him achieve his goal. Father and son crossed the finish line together creating a memory to be cherished for a lifetime.
"I am taller today for two reasons: One, because of what we accomplished. Two, because I can’t bend my knees," said Matsoff after the race.
Matsoff is an insurance agent for Northwestern Mutual and resides with his wife Randee in Mequon.
Feb. 7, 2003 Small Business Times, Milwaukee
