This past weekend, as I stood at the starting line of the New York City Marathon,for the second time, I felt more than the usual pre-race nerves. I felt the weight of my family’s history. My roots run deep in New York — both my mother’s and father’s families are from here, and my grandparents first set foot in America through the gates of Ellis Island. They had arrived with nothing but hope, having survived the unimaginable horrors of several concentration camps. New York became the place where they rebuilt their lives from scratch, weaving resilience and determination into our family’s story.
Running this marathon, with the Israeli flag adorned with a yellow ribbon, felt like a tribute to that legacy. The race wasn’t just about the miles or the personal records; it was about honoring the courage of those who came before and finding unity in a time of division.
A Marathon Like No Other
The New York City Marathon is no ordinary race. Each borough brings its own character, and on race day, the city transforms into a community like no other. You don’t run in New York; you run with New York. This year, I felt that energy even more profoundly, as the crowds seemed to rise above the tense political climate. With an upcoming election and all the issues that divide us, New York — this city of endless diversity and storied history — put all of that aside. On race day, we were one community, each of us bound by the collective spirit of resilience and hope. (Well, everyone except for Matt Choi!)
This sense of unity didn’t just come from the runners. From the volunteers who cheered tirelessly and handed out water at every stop to the throngs of supporters lining the streets, the energy was palpable. The weather was perfect, with a crispness that seemed to heighten everyone’s spirits. From the heart of Brooklyn to the vibrancy of Manhattan, the city rallied behind each runner, lifting us up mile by mile.
Running with Purpose
My preparation this year had been different from the last. I’ve been focused on long-distance trail running, with my sights set on a 100K ultramarathon in December. Training for a trail ultra teaches resilience in unexpected ways — you face rocks, steep climbs, and unpredictable terrain, building a quiet strength that’s far different from the demands of a road race. Yet, even with less specific marathon training, I managed to beat my time from last year by 45 minutes and 6 seconds. Last year was a challenging run; I’d just completed another marathon two weeks prior, so I wasn’t at my best. This year’s improvement surprised me, a reminder that sometimes resilience and adaptability matter more than having a perfectly tailored plan.
And this year, I ran with a specific purpose. Carrying the Israeli flag with a yellow ribbon was my quiet statement of hope and solidarity amidst these uncertain times. It felt symbolic to run with it fluttering by my side — a testament not only to my family’s journey but to the strength and unity we all seek in the face of today’s challenges. The flag represented both a personal and universal resilience, a reminder that we’re all stronger than we think, especially when we carry others with us.
Reflecting on that, I think there’s a broader lesson here for all of us. Just as trail running has taught me to navigate unpredictable terrain, we find ourselves in a world that demands this same kind of flexibility — whether in the future of our country or the rapid evolution of AI. We can prepare, strategize, and plan, but the reality is that the path forward will always bring unforeseen obstacles. The real skill lies in how we adapt, how we let change shape us without breaking us, and how we support one another along the way.
This lesson is particularly relevant in the field of AI. We’re entering an era where technology is advancing faster than we can fully anticipate its consequences. Just like on the trail, where you have to be present and responsive to the terrain, we need to stay aware of AI’s impacts — not just on industry but on our values, ethics, and society. Success in the future of AI will come not from rigidly sticking to pre-designed paths but from being vigilant, adaptable, and committed to aligning technological progress with what truly serves humanity.
So, this year’s marathon was a reminder: whether in running, in AI, or in life itself, it’s not about having all the answers or the perfect plan. It’s about showing up, adapting as you go, and trusting in the resilience that comes from facing each new step with an open mind, a grounded purpose, and the strength of everyone we carry along with us.
Lessons from the Race
The NYC Marathon reminded me that we all have our own races to run, our own challenges and paths. This year, it taught me something essential: resilience isn’t just about pushing harder; it’s about showing up with whatever you have, adapting to the day’s demands, and letting the support of those around you carry you when your own strength falters.
Sometimes, unity and perseverance come not from the perfect preparation or the individual accomplishment but from being open to the people and the experiences that surround you. Even with so much tension in the world, the NYC Marathon reminded me that there is an unbreakable power in coming together. This lesson, perhaps, is one of the greatest gifts this marathon gives each of us every year.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
This year’s run reaffirmed why I return to New York. It’s not just about the race; it’s about the spirit of a city that celebrates resilience, unity, and hope. I’m deeply grateful for every supporter, every volunteer, and every runner who shared in this journey. For now, I’ll shift my focus back to the trails as I prepare for December’s ultramarathon, carrying forward the lessons and the legacy of my family.
New York, thank you for another unforgettable experience. Until next year.
