Celebrities Unite for a Cause at the TCS New York City Marathon
Staten Island, N.Y. — This Sunday, Fort Wadsworth will transform into a vibrant hub of energy and excitement as a star-studded lineup of celebrities gathers to participate in the TCS New York City Marathon. The event, renowned for its challenging course and festive atmosphere, will see these notable figures not only racing for personal achievement but also to support various charitable causes.
A Star-Studded Lineup
The New York Road Runners have unveiled an impressive roster of celebrities who will be hitting the pavement this year. Among them is Vinny Guadagnino, the reality television personality best known for his role on “Jersey Shore.” This marks Guadagnino’s marathon debut, and he is particularly excited to represent his hometown of Staten Island. Known for his keto lifestyle, he has even authored a cookbook, earning the nickname “keto guido.” His participation adds a local flavor to the event, as he previously held a book signing on the Island.
Supporting Meaningful Causes
Many of the celebrities are running to raise awareness and funds for various charities. Randall Park, celebrated for his role in the ABC sitcom “Fresh Off The Boat,” will be making his marathon debut while supporting KultureCity, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing sensory accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Similarly, Jacob Soboroff, a correspondent for NBC News, will run on behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles, highlighting the importance of mentorship and community support.
Overcoming Challenges
Nev Schulman, the producer and host of MTV’s “Catfish,” is returning for his eighth New York City Marathon, but this year holds special significance. After suffering a serious neck injury in a biking accident just a few months ago, Schulman will run as a guide for a visually impaired athlete through Achilles International. His resilience and commitment to helping others shine through in his participation.
Family Ties and Philanthropy
In a heartwarming display of family support, Katherine Morikawa, wife of professional golfer Collin Morikawa, will be running for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. This organization is dedicated to treating and defeating childhood cancer, and Morikawa’s involvement underscores the importance of community and family in philanthropy. Greg Rikaart, known for his roles in soap operas like “Days of Our Lives” and “The Young and the Restless,” will also run for St. Jude’s, marking his first marathon experience.
Reality Stars for a Cause
The marathon will also feature several stars from popular reality television shows. Matt James and Peter Weber, both from “The Bachelor,” will participate, supporting ABC Food Tours, an initiative aimed at providing healthy meals to children in need. Additionally, Zac Clark and Joe Amabile from “The Bachelorette” will run to support Release Recovery, an organization focused on addiction recovery and mental health.
Mental Health Advocacy
Mental health awareness is a significant theme this year, with members of the Maybelline Run Club participating as Team Maybelline in partnership with the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Notable members include actress Claire Holt, television host Tayshia Adams, model Haley Kalil, and beauty influencer Karen Sarahi Gonzalez. Their involvement emphasizes the importance of mental health advocacy and support in the community.
The Full Celebrity Roster
The marathon will see a diverse array of celebrities, each bringing their unique flair and commitment to various causes. Here’s a look at the full list of notable runners:
- Randall Park – Actor; supporting KultureCity
- Jacob Soboroff – NBC News correspondent; supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles
- Nev Schulman – Host of MTV’s “Catfish”; supporting Achilles International
- Katherine Morikawa – Wife of golfer Collin Morikawa; supporting St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital
- Greg Rikaart – Actor; supporting St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital
- Matt James – “The Bachelor”; supporting ABC Food Tours
- Peter Weber – “The Bachelor”
- Zac Clark – “The Bachelorette”; supporting Release Recovery
- Joe Amabile – “The Bachelorette”; supporting Release Recovery
- Vinny Guadagnino – Television personality
- Claire Holt – Actress; Team Maybelline
- Tayshia Adams – Television host; Team Maybelline
- Haley Kalil – Model; Team Maybelline
- Karen Sarahi Gonzalez – Beauty influencer; Team Maybelline
- T.J. Holmes – Broadcast personality
- Amy Robach – Broadcast personality
- Casey Neistat – YouTube filmmaker; supporting Project Healthy Minds
- Phoebe Robinson – Comedian and publisher
- Carrie St. Louis – Actress; supporting Broadway Cares/Equity Fighting Aids
- Sebastián Yatra – Colombian singer; supporting Keep a Child Alive
As the marathon approaches, the excitement builds not only for the race itself but for the collective impact these celebrities will have on their chosen causes. Their participation serves as a reminder of the power of community, resilience, and the importance of giving back.
