Students complete 100-mile ultramarathon, highlighting the power of preventive medicine

Three future physicians from NEOMED continue to be great examples of the power of preventive medicine.
Ryan Muakkassa, Hunter Bonfiglio and Nick Sciarretti – all second-year students in the College of Medicine – completed the Canal Corridor 100 Mile Endurance Run with an impressive 28:37:09 finish in extremely challenging weather conditions.
The race, held Oct. 12-13, was run on the Towpath Trail, beginning in Akron before heading through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park to the Canal Basin in Cleveland then returning to Akron.
The students shared their reflections on why they run.
Bonfiglio shared, “Running is my favorite way to not only decompress from the stress of medical school, but it also allows me to push myself physically and mentally. I also think that the running community is one that is very special and tight knit. It is inspiring to see runners cheering each other on during races!”
“I love running because it allows me to constantly push myself outside of my comfort zone, said Sciarretti. “It teaches discipline and endurance, and the mental challenge that each long run or race offers is another opportunity for personal growth.”
“Running allows me to eliminate distractions and focus on reflection and bettering myself. I strive to inspire friends and family to achieve their own goals, no matter how big or small,” Muakkassa added.
Richard Schlenk, M.D., neurosurgeon at the Cleveland Clinic and race director, provided complimentary race entries for the students.
Congratulations to our students on their inspiring finish!
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