“I’m very loyal to New Balance. I have about a dozen pairs of NB running shoes. Most importantly I love their fit and comfort, but it also means a lot to me that they’re a Boston company.” – Tom O’Keefe of Brookline
For most, running is personal. For the city of Boston, it’s become something shared.
Each runner has a story behind their pursuit of 26.2 miles. For some, it’s the physical accomplishment felt while pushing their body to its limit. For others, it’s the adrenaline of the crowd willing them to finish. For many, it’s the sense of self felt when their feet hit the pavement and they are in charge of reaching their destination with no tool but their own bodies.
As Bostonians, the passion and pride of Marathon Monday is what makes it one of our favorite days of the year. We asked this year’s athletes why they run, who they run for, and what they run in. Here’s a look at the reasons they run, and the brands they trust to get them there.
“I worry about what every runner worries about most: the colors of the shoes! Jokes aside (even though colors matter), I just love the way the shoe makes me feel. I have right calf muscles and pronate and the shoe gives me the right level of support and feels best!” – Martyna Skowron-Collins of Boston on her love of Nike running shoes
“This is the first time I’m running Boston but I have run 10 other marathons before. I’m very excited to run in my home city with such great supporting fans!! As a brand, I am very loyal to Saucony sneakers and have worn them for over a decade. I absolutely love them!” – Elena Togashi of Cambridge