Going the Extra Mile
Read what these members have to say about their commitment to supporting NYRR and why running is such an important part of their lives.
Salman Al-Rashid, Donor and NYRR Member
How did you first get involved with New York Road Runners?
My first NYRR race was the 2014 TCS New York City Marathon. That day, wind gusts reached as high as 40 miles per hour, and the race presented so many challenges. I still ended up finishing and came away from the experience with immense gratitude to NYRR for organizing an event that made such a profound impact on me. I have run many other NYRR races ever since!
What made you decide to support NYRR?
I want to augment the resources of an organization that changed my life in such profound ways, so that it can continue its mission of building a community centered on fitness and positivity and change thousands of lives in the process.
Can you tell us about a NYRR youth and/or community program that inspires you?
The Rising New York Road Runners program is something I wish was available to a younger version of myself. This program can instill healthy habits and a communal, altruistic ethos in young people that can mold them into not only better athletes but also engaged citizens.
Why did you decide to run the United Airlines NYC Half?
I have run the United Airlines NYC Half a couple times in the past and have relished the experience of doing a long run through New York City’s streets, rather than one confined to Central Park or the West Side Highway. Running through such an iconic city alongside many thousands of committed runners truly captures the magical combination of communal running with New York’s robust civic pride.
How has NYRR/running influenced your life?
NYRR has influenced my life because it has provided the communal space for me to pursue running alongside not only my friends but also strangers with whom I ultimately feel a kinship because of our shared appreciation for the sport.
I run outside almost every day. I view it as therapy and a source of energy; it allows me to quickly process and discard daily anxieties and to cherish my surroundings. And it carves out a space for healthy, spirited competition both within myself and with others. It forms the foundation for many of my closest friendships.
Complete this sentence – I run because…
It forges me into a more present, humble, and clear-minded version of myself. It makes me a better husband, son, brother, friend, and coworker.
Claire Bienen, Donor and NYRR Member
How did you first get involved with New York Road Runners?
I started running NYRR races back in the late 1980s. I took some NYRR running classes back then too. When my husband moved to NYC, we decided to run the TCS New York City Marathon his first year here which was 1993.
What made you decide to support NYRR?
I have always enjoyed participating in NYRR events and have also volunteered with NYRR in the past. I became more involved after deciding to join Team for Kids to run my second marathon in 2018 and seeing more closely the wonderful work NYRR and TFK does.
Can you tell us about an NYRR youth and/or community program that inspires you?
The work TFK does with Rising New York Road Runners is terrific. I also saw firsthand the power of running and the confidence it can build for children. My son ran in RNYRR kids races as soon as he could, probably starting when he was around 3 years old. He continued to race and has become a competitive runner in NYC. The NYRR youth programs foster a love of running and healthy habits for life.
Why did you decide to run the United Airlines NYC Half?
It is a great route and race. I first ran the NYC Half in 2019. I had wanted to do it for years and after running the NYC marathon with TFK in 2018 I was enthusiastic to sign up for another event with them.
How has NYRR/running influenced your life?
Running and the NYRR community, including the wonderful people I have met through TFK, is just such a positive and healthy part of my daily life.
Complete this sentence – I run because…
It keeps me active and strong. I love that I can run on my own, with a friend or with a group and pretty much anywhere and anytime.
Joseph Tucker, Donor and NYRR Member
How did you first get involved with New York Road Runners?
I live in the Bronx, and I would see the runners from the New Balance Bronx 10 Mile go by my apartment by DeWitt Clinton High School. I also cheered on runners at the TCS New York City Marathon at 139th Street and the excitement of the marathon was contagious, so I ran my first long distance race at the Brooklyn Half. At 50 years old, I decided to run my first marathon.
What made you decide to support NYRR?
First of all, thank you for reaching out to me. I don’t give huge amounts, but it really shows how NYRR values all donors. NYRR has done a lot for me and my life. I'm certain they are doing a lot of good for others and the community. I want to give back to an organization whose mission has given so much to me and I want to repay the favor.
Can you tell us about an NYRR youth and/or community program that inspires you?
I love the NYRR Striders and Run for the Future programs. I felt so inspired watching RFTF interviews on the NYRR website and how this program has helped these young women better their lives as runners and people.
Why did you decide to run the United Airlines NYC Half?
I like the challenge that long distance and competitive races bring. I’ve been able to build momentum in my running since I started at age 50 and I want to keep going. As a native New Yorker, I love this city and will be in NYC forever. It’s a great feeling for me when I finish in the top 30% and hope to continue finishing in the top 30% as it brings a great feeling of accomplishment for me.
How has NYRR/running influenced your life?
NYRR has made me grow into a better person and athlete. I've gotten so much more out of myself by being a runner, being on a team, competing and racing. I first started running with the Van Cortlandt Track Club and I loved the social aspect of it. I love learning about people’s stories—their successes and challenges as runners. And I love the sense of community that it brings, not just socially, but the visibility that races bring to the neighborhoods and businesses that we run in.
Complete this sentence – I run because…
I love life and running is a way to celebrate and express my love for life.