Neighbor News
Local Latina Runner Recognized for Encouraging Others
2021 Eversouce Hartford Marathon Inspiration Team
She believes in strength in numbers and going the extra mile for others. As a chapter leader for Latinas in Motion, Noemi Rodriguez is being recognized for her dedication to the community at next month’s Eversource Hartford Marathon.
While welcoming thousands of runners in person on October 9, Hartford Marathon Foundation is honoring nine activists who exemplify inclusivity efforts within their community as part of the 2021 Eversource Hartford Marathon Inspiration Team. Each team member will either be running the 5K, half marathon, full marathon or volunteering.
“Highlighting exceptional participants through an Inspiration Team is a decade-long tradition of this event. This year, we wanted to take the opportunity to delve deeper in our HMF community to highlight some participants making a significant difference to help the underrepresented here in Connecticut,” said Beth Shluger, CEO of the Hartford Marathon Foundation and Race Director of the Eversource Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon. “We are so excited to be able to celebrate our participants in person again this year and honored to bring attention to this inspiring group of individuals who dedicate so much effort to helping others.”
Noemi's role with Latinas in Motion allows the Wethersfield woman to nurture a community of women that want to be better versions of themselves in order to promote healthy goals among their communities. She leads group runs, wellness events and lovingly encourages women of all ages and backgrounds to participate in everything from 5Ks to full marathons.
Joining Rodriguez as members of the Inspiration Team are Meghan Freed of Hartford, Toni Johnson of Bristol, Kristen Marcroft of Hartford, John Motley of Hamden, Garrett Murray of New Britain, Helen Newman of North Granby, Quyên Truong of Hartford and Ana Valentin of Manchester.
In conjunction with the Run United theme for 2021, HMF launched the Lace Up for Social Justice campaign last month to celebrate the diverse backgrounds and unique experiences of those that participate in its race events. With support from Pratt & Whitney to cover costs, 100% from the sale of $10 commemorative shoelaces will directly benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs.
Adorned in a rainbow of colors reading "I RUN FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE", the shoelaces are on sale now through the HMF Shop, at upcoming HMF and Boys and Girls Clubs events and through registration for the Eversource Hartford Marathon.
Members of the 2021 Inspiration Team will be profiled within the Eversource Hartford Marathon Insider’s Guide and receive complimentary race registration, PRE Perks experience and custom event apparel, including a personalized race bib and a pair of shoelaces. The inspiration team concept was developed by HMF in 2011.
Purchase laces, learn more about the Eversource Hartford Marathon events or register now at www.hartfordmarathon.com.
