Run Your Purpose
Roberto Mandje with friends in Central Park after one of his seven marathons in seven days.
This article is by Roberto Mandje, NYRR’s Senior Advisor of Engagement and Coaching.
With 2025 all but in the rearview mirror, it’s time to look ahead. After a busy and fulfilling 2025, my focus for the year ahead is simple: expanding my reach and positive impact within the running community—both locally and globally. That’s why my theme for 2026 is “Run Your Purpose.”
Before recapping the journey that led me here, I want to share a few observations from the past year that may help provide perspective and make your own 2026 training and racing more meaningful.
The Future of Races and Charity Spots
By nearly every measure, 2025 was a strong year for running. Run clubs continued to grow, and marathons and half marathons saw participation increases. The economic and community impact has been significant, as highlighted in NYRR’s record-breaking Economic & Community Impact Report.
But what does this mean for the everyday runner?
Simply put, demand is outpacing availability. Races can only accommodate so many participants without compromising the experience. The 2025 TCS New York City Marathon set a world record with over 59,000 finishers. Entries are competitive across all the Abbott World Marathon Majors.
With more runners chasing a limited number of spots, many are left on the outside looking in. This can be discouraging, and social media only amplifies the FOMO (fear of missing out) when popular influencers appear to be racing everywhere.
Most runners rely on drawings or charity entries, and some charities now require fundraising minimums as high as $15,000.
Finding Purpose
So, where does that leave us?
In 2025, I found myself facing this reality firsthand. I briefly considered taking on the challenge of running seven marathons in seven days across seven continents. It was ambitious, exciting—and ultimately unrealistic for me. Instead of dwelling on it, I pivoted.
What truly excited me wasn’t the travel—it was the challenge itself. The idea of running seven marathons in seven consecutive days. Running, after all, belongs to all of us.
I committed to seven marathons in seven days—no continents required. I shared the journey on social media, posted where I’d be running each day, and invited others to join for portions of the daily challenge.
The experience became richer than I ever expected, blending virtual support with real, in-person connection. I received countless messages from runners inspired to take on their own creative challenges.
That was me fully owning my journey. Run Your Purpose became more than a phrase—it was a mindset. What started as a setback turned into a meaningful experience that captured the heart of the original challenge. Over 183 miles in one week, I also raised more than $5,500 for Athletes' Soul, a nonprofit supporting athletes transitioning from sport to the corporate world—something deeply personal to me after retiring from competitive running in 2016.
Looking Ahead
Demand for races isn’t likely to slow down in 2026. But the joy of running doesn’t need to depend on a bib or finish line. If one door closes—a race entry, a charity spot, a qualifying time—there are always other paths forward.
Get creative, run solo (such as with NYRR Virtual Racing) or with friends, or join a run club. Find meaning in the process.
I’m excited to race in 2026, but I know I can’t do it all, after completing 13 marathons in 2025! What I can do is focus on what’s within my control—continuing to innovate, connect, and live my mantra: Run Your Purpose.
If that inspires even a few more runners along the way, then it’s all worth it.
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