Verona residents Grace Boyle and Grace Minervo-Buneo, who recently completed the ultra challenging New York City Marathon, show off their medals at the finish line. The two “Graces” finished the 26.2-mile race along with 50,000 other dedicated runners on November 2, in what was one of the coldest and windiest days in race history.
The grueling course, which runs through all boroughs of New York City and serpentines though countless culturally divergent neighborhoods, provided the athletes with a magnificent backdrop of cheering sections for the entire race, which “Grace & Grace” finished together. Both women are employed by the Verona Board of Education at Laning Avenue School and have been intensely training for months in anticipation of this world renowned and legendary race, which attracts elite runners from all over the world.
During their many months of training, Grace & Grace have raised money and awareness for numerous noble causes through the smartphone app Charity Miles. Organizations such as Autism Speaks, the Wounded Warrior Project, Stand Up To Cancer, and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society are just a few of the charities that have benefited from every mile logged by these dedicated, athletic lunatics!
On race day, both women were accompanied by their proud families who foolishly yet diligently followed them to various locations along the course for extra-loud personalized cheering and inspiration. Precarious, well-timed subway rides, coupled with a large contingent of sketchy fellow commuters and plenty of eclectic local color added to the excitement of the day for everyone involved.
Altogether, more than 1 million people gathered throughout all five boroughs to make it the world’s largest block party with multitudes of spectators serving high fives to as many participants as possible, making it an incredibly memorable experience for the “Amazing Graces”.
On behalf of the family and friends of these two remarkable women, thanks for being shining inspirational examples of extraordinary and unforgettable achievement!
“Love you more!”
