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
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!!
