Brianna Messina

RESIDENCE: LONG ISLAND, N.Y.

Brianna has run marathons in the past, but the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon will be her first one since coming out as a transgender woman last November. She is currently undergoing gender-affirming care and is running to prove to herself and others that she is still the same person, no matter the challenges or changes she may experience. Brianna, an electrician for “Maybe Happy Ending” on Broadway, is running to raise funds for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

What does it mean to be part of the 2026 TCS NYC Marathon Team Inspire?

“I honestly wake up every day and push harder, in my transition, in my career, and in life. I hope by being part of Team Inspire and sharing my journey I can bring hope to just one person, let them know that it’s ok to listen to themselves, follow their inner dreams, and know that everything will be better than they could ever imagine.”