Wellesley & other Boston Marathon route communities on display at New England Quilt Museum

July 14, 2026 by Bob Brown

Go-the-Distance-quilt — Photo courtesy of Evelyn Dow

An elaborate quilt dubbed “Go the Distance” that features Wellesley and the rest of the communities on the Boston Marathon course is on display at the New England Quilt Museum in Lowell until Sept. 26.

The Marathon Quilters Guild is behind the collaborative polyptych quilt project, which consists of eight 24″ x 60″panels.

At the start of 2025, the non-profit issued an open invite to quilt and textile guilds and artists across the state to participate in the project, which was completed this past January.

According to a companion guide about the Wellesley panel, the design involved a good amount of research and focuses on landmarks that marathon participants would see during their 4.25 miles in town.

The clocktower, Wellesley College, Town Hall, and the halfway mark are among highlights. The Scream Tunnel at Wellesley College is represented with a white bull horn with the school’s blue lettering and a few examples of signs created by spectators. The artists behind the quilt panel used specialized techniques, including thread painting, to recreate Wellesley College’s Galen Stone Tower.

Wellesley quilt panel — Photo courtesy of Evelyn Dow

Hat tip to AG for letting us know about the quilt and its Wellesley connection.

See something? Send something: theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

A sampling of Boston Marathon ‘Scream Tunnel’ signs

April 21, 2026 by Bob Brown

Our Wellesley College insider, Iris Zhan, shared a bunch of great photos from the Boston Marathon’s Scream Tunnel that we didn’t get into our earlier coverage…

Boston Marathon Scream Tunnel 2026 — All photos by Iris Zhan

Wellesley celebrates the Boston Marathon in style

April 21, 2026 by Bob Brown

Some 30,000 Boston Marathon participants streamed through town Monday, boosted by the Scream Tunnel and crowds from Wellesley Square into Lower Falls. Wellesley includes the halfway point of the 26.2-mile race.

Temps in the 40s, with a mix of clouds, sun, and a tailwind, made for record-setting running day and solid spectator weather.

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When marathoners enter town, things get gritty. The MBTA is working on an interlocking system that gives Wellesley something of an industrial look, and then the next thing you know a commuter rail train zips by in the opposite direction.

The Wellesley College students and friends made themselves heard and seen—with encouraging and spicy signs—as always, with some daring to smooch sweaty runners (a sampling of more sign photos, courtesy of Wellesley College student Iris Zhan).

Wellesley fans did it up as always, with the sideline spreads more spectacular than ever—people were there for the day, and it looked maybe even longer. Clearly not everyone in town had headed elsewhere for school break, as we came across dozens of locals we know on our walk along the course from Natick Center into Wellesley Hills to take photos and video.

Wellesley’s fastest male runner was Peide Li, who covered the course in just over 2 hours and 38 minutes, while the fastest female was Amanda Li at 3:12:18. Overall, more than 70 Wellesley runners finished the race.

Marathon Wellesley 2026 — Celebrating Patriots’ Day

Boston Marathon 2026: Wellesley guide

April 20, 2026 by Bob Brown

Wellesley Square claims the mid-point of the annual Boston Marathon, but Wellesley also accounts for 4-2 miles of the course in all starting just before the 12-mile mark near the Wellesley College entrance on Rte. 135 and stretching to the cusp of mile 16 near the Newton line.

We welcome marathon stories, snippets, and photos: theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

The 2026 Boston Marathon takes place on Monday, April 20. The first participants leave Hopkinton just after 9am, and the last wave of runners departs at 11:21am. Wheelchair athletes should be hitting Wellesley before 10am. Depending on whether you’re on the lookout for fast runners or plodders among the 30,000 participants, you’ll need to adjust your schedule accordingly. The pro runners, who start between 9:37-9:47am, should be hitting Wellesley Square before 11am after passing through Ashland, Framingham, and Natick.

Beware that roads in Wellesley that are on and near the course will be closing at 8:30am and many won’t reopen to at least 3:30pm (more details).

You’ve got quite a selection of spots in Wellesley to watch the race from. Many residents who live on the course and businesses located along the route party is up.

Things get really zany along the Wellesley College “Scream Tunnel” section, where students do indeed scream for—and sometimes smooch—sweaty runners. You’ll find some of the more clever, racy, and inspirational signs here as well. This segment used to feel more like a tunnel, with spectators on both sides of runners, but due to security and other changes over the years, fans are now located behind a barrier on just one side of the course.

A short walk or run from there up to Wellesley Square is another festive site, with fans lined up on both sides of Central Street. Local businesses get in on the action a well, some with giveaways, some with their own outdoor exercise displays (stationary bikes or rowing machines, for example).

The segment of Rte. 135/16 in front of Town Hall and the library makes for good picture taking, with a great backdrop on either side of the street. Simons Park next to the library also offers a bit of running around space for kids and pups.

At the 13.5-mile mark, in front of the Tolles Parsons Center at 500 Washington St., will be a sensory friendly viewing area—cowbell free. Learn more if you plan to attend here.

The crowds are strong, but thin out a bit, as you head into Wellesley Hills. The race passes by Hunnewell Fields at mile 14, so that’s another area where if you’re there with kids they can take a break on the playground, courts and fields.

For some high flying action, consider setting up near the top of the hill past the 15-mile mark that zips past the Wellesley Recreation Center on the right. This is an especially wild spot for watching the wheelchair and hand-cycle racers speed by.

About 50 Wellesley residents are participating in the 2026 Boston Marathon, per the Boston Athletic Association:

BIB	WAVE/CORRAL	LAST, FIRST	AGE
788	1 – Red/1	Defelice, David	35
1254	1 – Red/2	Li, Peide	33
1908	1 – Red/2	Collins, Luke	25
2846	1 – Red/3	Colavincenzo, John	45
5035	1 – Red/5	Juma, Adam	20
11727	2 – White/8	Foley, Brian	59
12689	3 – Blue/2	Li, Amanda	27
13344	3 – Blue/3	Haggerty, Sean	56
13920	3 – Blue/4	Dravenstott, Richard	52
13933	3 – Blue/4	Burch, Kathleen	42
19681	4 – Yellow/6	Mcnally, Lawrence	66
20039	4 – Yellow/7	Given, Sarah	42
20283	4 – Yellow/7	Huang, Yimei	51
20313	4 – Yellow/7	Foraste, Stephen	58
25213	5 – Green/6	Maul, Kate	58
25393	5 – Green/7	Collins, Bob	65
25488	5 – Green/7	Boland, Giles	66
26806	6 – Orange/1	Labadie, Jessica	35
26823	6 – Orange/1	Comella, Abigail	23
26866	6 – Orange/1	Kelly, Timothy	53
26977	6 – Orange/1	Fischman, Wendy	54
27075	6 – Orange/1	Daley, Heather	67
27124	6 – Orange/1	Kelly, Peter	46
27219	6 – Orange/1	Hoff, Caroline	22
27291	6 – Orange/1	Diamond, Sophia	38
27650	6 – Orange/2	Barlow, Lindsey	43
27731	6 – Orange/2	Boghosian, Richard	38
27733	6 – Orange/2	Flanagan, Ryan	49
27736	6 – Orange/2	Boghosian, Natasha	36
28139	6 – Orange/2	Flores, Omar	21
28502	6 – Orange/3	Huang, Alden	22
28810	6 – Orange/3	Eklund, Susie	43
28924	6 – Orange/3	Jacoby, Kerrie	34
28989	6 – Orange/3	Boland, Lindsay	32
29362	6 – Orange/4	Day, Michelle	56
29363	6 – Orange/4	Day, Courtney	26
30249	6 – Orange/5	Laudano, Emmie	18
30540	6 – Orange/5	Mccarron, Catherine	23
30691	6 – Orange/5	Joseph, Sara	53
30837	6 – Orange/5	Madden, Nathaniel	19
30976	6 – Orange/5	Houston, Neil	46
30977	6 – Orange/5	Corzo, Victor	72
31064	6 – Orange/5	Clark, Kevin	59
31130	6 – Orange/6	Cavallaro, Nicole	40
32108	6 – Orange/7	Barbary, Allison	45
32702	6 – Orange/7	Kim, Jayne	54
32707	6 – Orange/7	Campbell, Thomas	45
32736	6 – Orange/7	Lyne, Julia	25
32973	6 – Orange/8	Ellis, Faith	24
33224	6 – Orange/8	Freniere, Charlotte	24

Learn about runners from Wellesley and/or running for Wellesley non-profits.

WCVB-TV visits Wellesley as part of its series on the marathon course.

One other Wellesley twist this year: Couch, a band with serious Wellesley roots, is headlining the post-race party.

Expand your reach (and support local news) by advertising on Swellesley.

Sports

Wellesley middle & high school runners to compete at pre-Boston Marathon races

April 16, 2026 by admin

A handful of Wellesley Public Schools student-athletes have been selected to run on Saturday, April 18 in the BAA Middle School 1k and BAA Invitational Scholastic Mile races on the streets around the Boston Marathon finish line.

Boys 1k race

Fleet Taylor, Wellesley Middle School 8th grader. Personal best Mile 5:44. Fishing is his hidden talent, and the mile is his favorite distance to run.

Girls 1k race (event record is 3:14.05 by Abigail Beggans of Wellesley in 2022)

Cora Gibby, Wellesley Middle School 6th grader. Personal best mile is 6:31: She achieved her PB this year at the Harvard Friends and Family kids meet. The 5K is her favorite distance to run.

Maren Tamburelli, Wellesley Middle School 7th grader. She also skis and swims.

Boys Invitational Mile

Sami Juma, Wellesley High School senior. Mile personal best is 4:27.91 . He ran a 15:45 5K (his favorite distance to run), at the Bay State Invitational. He also plays the piano and enjoys 12x400m workouts.

Alex Bonnette, Wellesley High School senior. Mile personal best is 4:32. ompeted at the Bay State cross country championships in 2025. His favorite workout is the 6×800, and his hidden talent is playing the saxophone

Girls Invitational Mile

Eloise Crissman, Wellesley High School junior. Mile personal best is 5:48.10. Eloise’s hidden talent is that she can do a headstand. She also completed a half marathon last spring.

Courtney Edmonds, Wellesley High School senior. Mile personal best is 6:00.4. Courtney’s hidden talent is that she can hold a plank for 11 minutes. She achieved her personal best in the mile during her junior season.

The schedule:

11:00 AM Girls Middle School 1K Race Start

11:10 AM Boys Middle School 1K Race Start

11:25 AM Girls Scholastic Mile Race Start

11:35 AM Boys Scholastic Mile Race Start

The youth races will be followed by professional runner 1-mile races.

More: Boston Marathon 2026—Wellesley guide

Fundraising

Runner finishing off all Wellesley’s streets & trails as part of Boston Marathon training

March 4, 2026 by Bob Brown

What’s a mere 26.2 miles along the Boston Marathon course cheered on by thousands of people once you’ve already knocked off all 189 miles of Wellesley’s streets and trails, many by yourself and sometimes in a couple feet of snow?

First-time Boston Marathoner and 21-year Wellesley resident Kevin Clark is about to find out come Marathon Day on April 20.

Like many local runners, the pandemic initially inspired Clark to explore more of the town just as a way to get out of the house and do something. Then he kept going and going and going…

Now he’s 86% through all of Wellesley’s streets and trails—and when we say all, we mean all. He’s not just dipping a toe onto a street and calling it done. He’s running the full street or trail.

“I’ve enjoyed visiting neighborhoods I never knew including Standish and Sheridan Estates, along with the trails leading to our neighborhood schools. I enjoy seeing the look on people’s faces when I come through on dead ends and cul de sacs that see little traffic or strangers,” Clark says. “I once worked as a milkman and I like to run to all our public schools on a run I call the “Milkman’s Route.”I also was surprised to find some steep hills tucked in throughout the town and forests.”

Clark is running the Boston Marathon in memory of his and his wife’s son Harry and on behalf of the Community Fund for Wellesley, which provides essential grants to address both emergent and ongoing needs within the Wellesley community. Clark hopes you’ll contribute to the cause to provide him with extra incentive to finish all the Wellesley miles and then crank out a fast Boston Marathon in April.

Contribute to Kevin Clark’s Boston Marathon run on behalf of the Community Fund for Wellesley

Both goals have been extra challenging during this snowy and icy winter with “many sidewalks impassable or sketchy,” Clark says.

Clark has used an app called Wandrer to track his miles across Wellesley. It gamifies things by awarding points for new roads and trails covered. It also sync with Strava, a popular app that Clark uses to track various activities.

Wellesley charity runners: Share your 2026 Boston Marathon profile

February 4, 2026 by admin

We’ve created a page featuring profiles of those from Wellesley who are taking part in the 2026 Boston Marathon on April 20 for a charity as well as those who are participating for a Wellesley charity.

Fill out this form if you’d like us to include your bio and a link to your fundraising page on our site.

We’re also very happy to hear from anyone taking part in the race in any way if you’ve got a great story to tell: theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

Wellesley’s 2026 Boston Marathon charity runners

Many Wellesley-ites are registered to take part in the 2026 Boston Marathon on April 20. Some have qualified by posting fast times in previous races, while others are participating to raise funds for charities in Wellesley and beyond.

Here’s a form you can fill out if you’d like us to include your Boston Marathon profile (including a link to your fundraising site) on this page. Please, only those who either live in Wellesley, or who are taking part in the race for a Wellesley charity, should fill this out. We’ll try to get entries added to this page within a day or two of receiving them.

We’re also happy to hear from anyone taking part in the race in any way if you’ve got a great story to tell: theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

Will Wiegman

Charity & fundraising page: Wellesley Friendly Aid

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I am honored to run for this organization because it is determined that all people from Wellesley get a taste of how loving this community is through material resources and just the gesture alone. I also am happy to raise funds for children to have the opportunity to participate in camps through the Wellesley Recreation Department which I was a camper in as a kid and also worked for as a tennis instructor for four years.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0

Fun fact about your running: I ran a 16-mile race in New Hampshire during the first blizzard of the year.

Omar Dominick Flores

Charity & fundraising page: Cradles to Crayons

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I’m Omar, I’m from Washington, D.C., and I’m a junior at Babson College. I feel incredibly blessed to be running the Boston Marathon this year for Cradles to Crayons. Having watched the marathon for the past two years, I knew this was something I wanted to do before graduating, and being able to run for such an impactful cause makes it even more meaningful. Cradles to Crayons works to provide children with the clothing and essentials they need to thrive with confidence and dignity. Every donation goes toward supporting that mission, and I’m so grateful for any support along the way.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? None

Fun fact about your running: I love to run without headphones and sometimes if I need some stimulus I start pretending that I am running from animals.

Jennifer Neundorfer

Charity & fundraising page: Wellesley Education Foundation

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I’ve wanted to run the Boston marathon for a number of years – when I saw the email about running to support WEF, I knew this was the cause I wanted to support! I am a proud Wellesley public schools graduate – I attended Fiske, Wellesley Middle School and Wellesley High School (class of 1999). In 2019 I moved back to Wellesley, and I am now a Wellesley public schools parent – I have a 5th and 3rd grader at Fiske. As a WPS parent, I see WEF’s impact on our schools, teachers, and students. It’s been incredible to see our teachers testing new innovative learning modules with WEF grants, and then hear from my children how much they learned or how they enjoyed them. I wholeheartedly support WEF’s mission of supporting curiosity, creativity and learning for all – it’s this spirit that makes Wellesley Public Schools such an amazing school system and community. I am incredibly proud to support WEF with my marathon run.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? This will be my first!

Fun fact about your running: I was running on a particularly cold day this January, and when I bit into my energy chew I popped out a crown on one of my front teeth. I finished the rest of my training run and ran straight to my amazing dentist here in Wellesley on Walnut Street (Dr. Tina Wang from Premier Dental Group). She immediately took me in, fixed my tooth, and 15 minutes later I was doing my cool down run back to my house.

Stephen Forasté

Charity & fundraising page: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I am again honored to be toeing the line in April for the Multiple Sclerosis Society. I very much appreciate all the encouragement and donations friends and family have made over the years. Your support helps provide crucial resources for research, advocacy, and services for individuals living with MS. In the 23 years since Aly and I began running for MS some amazing developments have occurred in MS research. Back then, there were only a couple of drugs, with potentially serious side effects, making dose decisions quite difficult. Now there are 28 drugs to help alleviate a variety of symptoms for both Relapsing and Progressive MS. Even better, drugs are now under trial to repair MS damage. While this is amazing progress, unfortunately, none of these treatments fully cures MS – yet… MS affects more people everyday. Some are teammates who began running in honor of parents, and are now themselves patients. The MS Society, with your help, continues to fund research to find a cure and end this disease forever. Please join me in continuing to support this important tradition we began to honor Aly’s mom, and those who continue to live with MS today. The marathon, with your help, is the opportunity to be part of something far bigger than one’s self; it offers a sense of the power to make a difference. Thank you again for your support and I look forward to hearing from you!

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 17

Fun fact about your running: My wife and I were introduced to Wellesley through the Boston Marathon. We were dating back when we were training for our first Boston, and running through town made us both think, “someday…” Not too many years later we moved to Wellesley with our twins.

Roland Ordovas

Charity & fundraising page: Wellesley Council on Aging

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: Hi! My name is Roland Ordovas and am honored to be running the Boston Marathon 2026 to support the programs and services provided to Wellesley seniors by the Wellesley Council on Aging. As a Wellesley resident with my wife and two daughters, this cause is deeply personal to me. The Council on Aging plays a vital role in our community by helping older adults stay active, connected, and supported through essential services, social programs, and wellness initiatives. Their work not only enhances the quality of life for seniors, but also strengthens an entire vibrant community. Running Boston for the town of Wellesley as a resident is both an honor and a challenge I am proud to take on. Please consider making a donation and sharing this page — every contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure Wellesley seniors continue to receive the care, resources, and connections they deserve.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? First timer!

Fun fact about your running: 3 NYC Marathons down, Boston could not be missing! All that snowy mileage is paying off … the unicorn is calling

Julianne O’Leary

Charity & fundraising page: Wellesley Food Pantry

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: We never truly know what others are going through and food insecurity can affect any of us. Helping our neighbors who may be struggling is one way to help us all grow and thrive! Every mile is a reminder that small efforts add up, and if my running can help bring awareness and support to neighbors who need it, then it’s miles well spent.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? This is my first.

Fun fact about your running: I consider myself a novice runner but have always dreamed of experiencing Boston. I have lived in three of the towns along the route and have ties to every other town! I remember handing out orange slices to the runners while watching the race as a kid. I grew up watching so many friends and family tackle this historic feat.

Kerrie Jacoby

Charity & fundraising page: Samaritans

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I’ve lost two friends to suicide, and that loss has made it painfully clear to me how often mental health struggles go unseen and unspoken. When I reflect on how many people in my own life have been impacted by suicide, it underscores just how urgent this issue is and how vital organizations like Samaritans are. My hope is that by running and raising awareness for Samaritans, I can be part of changing the narrative so that even one person feels a little more seen, a little more supported, and a little less alone.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? I have not run a full marathon before so Boston will be my very first and I truly can’t imagine a more meaningful race. I have always wanted to run a marathon and Boston being my home makes it even more special, all while having the opportunity to run for a charity that is so close to me.

Kevin Clark

Charity & fundraising page: Community Fund for Wellesley

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I’m running in memory of our son, Harry Clark, and the great organizations supporting our town made possible throgh the generosity of the Community Fund for Wellesley including Art Wellesley, Community Investors, Dignity Matters, Land’s Sake Farm, Minding Your Mind, Village Table Wellesley, Wellesley A Better Chance, Wellesley Conservation Land Trust, and the Wellesley Food Pantry.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0

Fun fact about your running: As I train for Boston, I’m also running every street and trail in Wellesley. I’ve completed 164 unique miles out of 189 total miles in Wellesley. I will close out the remainder before the Marathon and welcome people to sponsor me to both finish lines.

Caitlin Welsh

Charity/non-profit & fundraising page: Elizabeth Seton Residence

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: Since I joined the Elizabeth Seton Residence team as a physical therapist this past August, I have been blessed to be a part of a wonderful community that cares deeply about its residents and their wellbeing. It has always been a dream of mine to run the Boston Marathon, and to get the chance to run for the benefit of the patients I work with every day is an absolute dream come true.

Marian Derryberry

Charity & fundraising page:

Wellesley Scholarship Foundation

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: This is my 11th marathon and 23rd year as a special educator at Wellesley High School. I have taught many students whose lives have been touched by the support of Wellesley Scholarship Foundation and it is incredibly meaningful to run on behalf of an organization that opens doors for all Wellesley High School grads. Running helps me to be a better teacher and teaching helps me to be a better runner! I’m thrilled to be able to combine my two passions by running this year’s Boston Marathon!

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0

Fun fact about your running: I didn’t start running until I turned 45!

Lisa Tuyen

Charity & fundraising page: Cotting School

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I’m running for Cotting School because every child deserves to be seen, supported, and believed in. Cotting serves students with complex needs, giving them not just education, but dignity, confidence, and hope. Your support helps provide therapies, specialized instruction, and opportunities that truly change lives. Every donation is a step toward a future where these students can thrive.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0

Fun fact about your running: I started running because of a bet… and somehow it turned into marathons and meaningful causes. This time, every mile has a purpose—supporting the incredible students and families at Cotting School.

Alden Huang

Charity & fundraising page: Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I’m Alden, I’m from Wellesley, Massachusetts and a senior at Babson College. I’m super fortunate and grateful to be running the Boston Marathon this year as a part of the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) team. My family has been involved with MDSC for years. This incredible organization works tirelessly to advocate for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, helping to create a more inclusive and supportive community. Every dollar raised will contribute towards their educational programs, resources, and opportunities for individuals to thrive. All donations are deeply appreciated, together let’s promote inclusion and awareness!

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0

Fun fact about your running: I ran cross country and track all four years at Wellesley High School (2018-2022)

Daniel Venuto

Charity & fundraising page: Friends of Wellesley METCO, Inc.

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: My direct connection stems from my wife, a dedicated teacher at Sprague Elementary who has been a consistent collaborator with the METCO program since the start of her teacher career. This year she took on the role to host the Late Day program once a month at her school. She loves getting to run this program and work with students of all ages. Through her insights, I have learned about the exceptional students and the substantial benefits that the METCO program provides. This program offers Boston students access to a more individualized education, crucial resources they might otherwise lack in Boston Public Schools, and enriching academic summer programs. My goal in running is to raise funds that will surpass the minimum and increase access for more students to these vital programs and to build upon the already commendable work that METCO is accomplishing.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0

Fun fact about your running: I began my running journey by starting with 5k’s over summer 2025 and have rapidly increased my miles over the last seven months. I started my running journey last summer with my wife (who is also running her first Boston marathon in April). We are now running over 10 miles on our Saturday mornings, and we just signed up for our fist half marathon this winter. We have been working extremely hard to accomplish this goal of crossing the finish line on Boylston Street. We have been running 3 times a week, working out at home and the gym on non-running days, and eating right to maintain energy and motivation. Every week we continue to push ourselves to prove that we can accomplish this goal together.

Greg Williams

Charity & fundraising page: Sustainable Wellesley

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: Promoting sustainability has become a significant personal and professional priority for me, as I want to do my part to protect the world that my girls are going to inherit; ‘Think global, act local’… Sustainable Wellesley is a great advocate for sustainability at the local level!

How many Boston Marathons have you run? This is my first!

Fun fact about your running: I was a pole vaulter in high school and college! Running track was what got me started as a runner, and I participated in triathlons and various running races (including Hood to Coast, an amazing relay race from the top of Mount Hood to the coast of Oregon) for most of my 30s.

Nicole Cavallaro

Charity & fundraising page: Wellesley Community Children’s Center (WCCC)

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I’m running to support Wellesley Community Children’s Center because I’ve seen firsthand how transformative it is for families. Both of my children have grown, learned, and built confidence through WCCC’s programs, and as a Board member I also see how critical fundraising is to providing scholarships and enriching experiences for all children. Running the Boston Marathon is a personal milestone for me, and I’m proud to pair that goal with helping ensure more local kids have access to this incredible community resource.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? This will be my first!

Fun fact about your running: This will be my third marathon — I previously ran LA in college and Providence after graduating. I like to joke that I don’t actually enjoy running, yet somehow I keep signing up for marathons. Growing up in this area, Boston has always been the one I wanted to do, and I’m excited to finally run it!

Jenifer Liu

Charity & fundraising page: Friends of Wellesley Veterans

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: My grandfather was a WWII veteran, and I grew up surrounded by his air force community. I have always admired the bravery, discipline and sacrifice of our service members, and it is a privilege for me to honor and recognize those who have fought for our freedom and served our country from the town of Wellesley.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? This will be my first.

Fun fact about your running: I ran my first marathon 6 weeks pregnant with my third child. She’s now 9 years old and quite athletic, although she prefers dancing to running.

Michael Higgins

Charity & fundraising page: Friends of the Wellesley Free Libraries

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I am supporting the Friends of Wellesley Free Libraries by running in the 130th Boston Marathon! Having grown up in Wellesley Hills, I spent lots of time at the main building on Washington St. and the Hills Branch nearby my childhood home. The library was such a wonderful place to do schoolwork with classmates and explore the collections of books to expand my literary horizons. Our library is more than just a building filled with books; it’s a vibrant community hub where residents connect, learn, and explore. I am raising funds to help keep this valuable resource thriving, ensuring that everyone in our community can access information, culture, and new ideas.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0

Fun fact about your running: Goal to run in all 7 continents—have 6 down so far!

Neil Houston

Charity & fundraising page: World of Wellesley

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: Growing up in Wellesley and attending public school, I am proud to run the Boston Marathon for World of Wellesley. Since 1990, this organization has been instrumental in building a more welcoming community focused on diversity and inclusion. Every year growing up, my family would walk to the town center to support marathon runners from all over the world. It was inspiring to see people united toward a shared goal, while striving to achieve their personal best. After completing my medical training in dermatology, my wife and I returned to Wellesley to raise our family and give back to the community. It is a dream to have my children continue the tradition of watching the marathon while supporting their dad. The work of World of Wellesley ensures they will grow up in a more welcoming, diverse, and open community.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0

Fun fact about your running: Lots of my training runs are done with my 2-year-old in a stroller.

Ryan Connon

Charity & fundraising page: Wellesley ABC

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: While attending Wellesley High School, I saw firsthand the impact of Wellesley ABC Scholars on both the students involved and the broader community. As peers, it was meaningful to see additional students receive mentorship and guidance while navigating their time at Wellesley High School, and Wellesley ABC was a special organization to witness and engage with. Since my time in high school, I have continued to see the program’s lasting impact through the dedication of its leadership and volunteers, as well as the powerful stories that have emerged from the program. The opportunity to support such a great organization and help provide life skills for tomorrow’s leaders is an honor, and I am grateful to contribute in the small way I can through fundraising and raising awareness.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? This is my first Boston Marathon

Fun fact about your running: I have had the opportunity to participate in the Falmouth Road Race, the B.A.A. Medley Relay and Half Marathon, the Nantucket Triathlon, and the Cambridge Half Marathon. During my runs, I typically listen to audiobooks or podcasts for the first 75% of the distance, then switch to music toward the end for an extra boost of energy. Living in Boston’s North End, I especially enjoy running along the Charles River Esplanade.

Charlie Katsikaris

Charity & fundraising page: Wellesley Neighbors

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: Growing up working for my Dad at Fells Market right here in Wellesley I would see and develop relationships with some of the sweetest elderly people. After seeing the service that Wellesley Neighbors provides I knew this was a charity that hit home for me. Giving back to this community feels like a full circle moment and what better way to do it then by running the Boston Marathon.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0

Fun fact about your running: I have run 1 marathon before this and three half marathons and even one triathlon!

Aaron Thomas

Charity & fundraising page: Golf Fights Cancer

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: Almost everyone I know has been impacted either directly or indirectly by cancer and I wanted to fundraise for an organization that helps so many people in need of support as they battle cancer. I also grew up in Newton going to the marathon every year and this is my last chance to run it before I turn 50.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? Zero!

Fun fact about your running: I’m definitely not trying to win the race, just hoping to finish!

Brooke Ryan

Charity & fundraising page: Brigham & Women’s Stepping Strong Center

Why you’re running for this cause/organization: I am running for my best friend, Maria. On the day we were supposed to graduate from Wellesley High School a few years ago, her life changed forever when she was in a devastating car accident. Thanks to the Stepping Strong Center and its relentless commitment to transforming how traumatic injuries are prevented, treated, and healed, Maria survived—and was able to walk again. Traumatic injury is the leading cause of death for Americans age 44 and under, so I’m running to raise money to help sustain this extraordinary mission, so that more families and patients get a second chance, just like Maria did.

How many Boston Marathons have you run? 0, this will be my first!

Fun fact about your running: I am training in Wisconsin and often am running in temps below 0º!!