“Women’s Health and Fitness: Inspiring Stories from the New York Road Runners Half Marathon”

Karina Tiburcio has participated in the half marathon and explains:

“You have to run it to feel it. You feel like your strength is gone and suddenly people are yelling at you and coming out of somewhere, very exciting!”

Despite the weather forecast, the day was perfect for running! This was stated by several of the 7,000 runners who participated in the 18th edition of the Health and Women’s Half Marathon organized by New York Road Runners.

Christine Burke, Senior Vice President Strategic Partnerships NYRR notes, “Women supporting other women in Central Park on a beautiful Sunday, it’s a little overcast, it’s actually perfect running weather, and the feeling of support on the court is wonderful. ….

…There are women here who run together every morning and even women who have been running for 20 or 30 years,” Burke says.

The marathon, which took place on Sunday, consisted of 13.1 miles, which is equivalent to two complete laps around Central Park.

Yasmin Monroy, half marathon participant says:

“Thank God it’s a wonderful experience and I inspire all people, right, because actually running is healthy. I didn’t have the opportunity to participate in something like this before and well today, I’m excited”.

Stephanie Medina, a participant in the half marathon, tells us at the end of the race:

“It was worth the effort, a lot of adrenaline, the energy of the people helps a lot. They cheer you on, the shouts, the cheers, the applause, everything motivates you to continue”.

The participants are not only from New York, several came from other states, and latitudes to run and give everything in this meeting with the sport.

“We are five friends, who came from Puerto Rico to do this as a personal challenge,” adds Denise Figueroa, another athlete.

For each participant, there is a personal reason that inspired her to prepare and run:

“Carrying my flag, my Spanish language with great pride and every time my teammates pass by, that spirit of competition is very important! ”, says Ana Ramírez proudly.

The event is not only an ode to the strength and power of women, it is also a great tribute to mental and physical health.