Meet Matt Hotaling, a dedicated teacher and coach from Virginia Beach, VA. While his days are typically filled with molding young minds as a World History teacher and guiding aspiring athletes as a Cross Country and Track and Field coach, Matt's world revolves around his beautiful family. His 2 young daughters, Mila and Cora, and his wife, Ashley, are his biggest fans and motivation to run.
For Matt, the ultimate goal is not just running in the Chicago Marathon, but running it with his wife, Ashley, who earned her spot in the Chicago Marathon after conquering the New York City Marathon. They hope to earn Boston Qualifications together! But, their journey goes beyond the pursuit of medals and achievements; it's about making a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
Matt is on a mission to raise funds for a cause close to his heart — a charity that advocates for athletic opportunities irrespective of mental or physical disabilities. Inspired by the values of the Special Olympics, he believes that the right mindset and support system can empower individuals to overcome any challenge. As a runner, coach, and father, Matt believes the mission of the Special Olympics is especially inspiring. The mission of Special Olympics is to ensure that athletes of all abilities have the opportunity to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families and community. As a coach, Matt encourages his athletes to volunteer at local Special Olympics events because he wants his athletest to remember that what's important is what someone CAN do, not what they can't. The Special Olympics reminds us all that with the right people around us, we can accomplish anything.
Matt proudly aligns himself with Team Special Olympics Chicago, a dedicated group of runners striving to support thousands of Chicagoans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Special Olympics Chicago/Special Children's Charities is actively working towards creating a more inclusive Chicago, mile by mile.
Matt extends a warm invitation to join him in supporting this cause. By contributing to his marathon journey, supporters become integral parts of a movement that transcends individual accomplishments, making a tangible difference in the lives of Special Olympics Chicago's superstar athletes. Grateful for every ounce of support, Matt recognizes that #TeamSpecialOChicago is not just a running team; it's a collective force driving positive change and unity, one stride at a time.