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Miles of Impact Award

Nominations for 2026 Now Open

About the Miles of Impact Award

The New York Road Runners (NYRR) Miles of Impact Award Presented by Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) celebrates dedicated runners who embody the core values of HSS and NYRR—community spirit, inclusivity, excellence, gratitude, innovation, integrity, passion, and teamwork.

This award seeks to recognize runners who go the extra mile—not just in their training, but in their resilience, passion, and impact on the running community. Whether they inspire others, overcome challenges with unwavering determination, or demonstrate an exceptional love for the sport, we want to honor them.

Nominate a runner who truly represents these values for a chance to win a coveted complimentary entry race bib for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon—a reward for their dedication and spirit.

Nominate Here Until April 19

Award Criteria

Nominees for the Miles of Impact Award will be evaluated based on the following core values:

Community Spirit – A runner who shows the most enthusiasm for NYRR’s programming, mission, and vision.
Inclusivity – Promotes an inclusive and respectful environment. They demonstrate equitable treatment and provide opportunities for all.
Excellence – Sets and raises the bar in their contributions and support to the running community, demonstrating outstanding dedication and commitment.
Gratitude – Consistently shows appreciation for others and for the opportunities available to them.
Innovation – Introduces new ideas or methods that enhance the team's performance, training techniques, or community involvement.
Integrity – Demonstrates the highest levels of personal and professional conduct, upholding the values of honesty, fairness, and ethical behavior.
Passion – Shows exceptional enthusiasm, energy, and commitment to their training, racing, and team involvement.
Teamwork – Actively participates as a supportive and empowering team member.

How the Program Works

Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and New York Road Runners (NYRR) will invite runners to nominate individuals from their running communities who exemplify the core values of this award. Nominations are welcome for runners of all backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, or ability.
HSS and NYRR will carefully review all nominations and select the top 5 finalists for the Miles of Impact Award.
As a recognition of their achievement, all finalists will receive an NYRR branded Item and a certificate
A special Miles of Impact Award panel will review the submissions and select one grand prize winner, who will receive a coveted race bib for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, and five finalists, who will each receive an NYRR branded item and certificate.

Grand Prize Winner Receives:

Special Miles of Impact Award Presented by HSS trophy
A 2026 TCS New York City Marathon complimentary guaranteed bib
NYRR x Runna 1-Year Membership
Running mechanics analysis provided by HSS
Invitation to 2026 NYRR races courtesy of Hospital for Special Surgery (New Balance Bronx 10 Mile, TCS New York City Marathon Training Series 18M, NYRR Staten Island Half)

Nominate Here

2025 Miles of Impact Award Winner

Congratulations, Julia!

Congratulations to Julia Azcona, founder of Ridgewood Runners, on being named the inaugural recipient of the NYRR Miles of Impact Award Presented by Hospital for Special Surgery!

This prestigious award honors runners who go the extra mile—not only in their athletic pursuits, but in their resilience, passion, and meaningful contributions to the running community. It recognizes individuals who exemplify the core values shared by HSS and NYRR: community spirit, diversity, excellence, gratitude, innovation, integrity, passion, and teamwork.

Julia embodies all of these qualities and more. We are proud to celebrate her remarkable leadership and the lasting impact she continues to make.

Congrats to our finalists: Chrystal Flores(Rising NYRR Program lead), Sergio Arias (Team WEPA), Olivia Snell (Chronic Illness Awareness Advocate), Joe Sorbanelli (Achilles Internationa - NJ Chapter).

Julia Azcona