Every year, New York Road Runners selects 26 compelling runner stories – each representing a mile of the marathon – to form Team Inspire, reflecting the breadth and diversity of the TCS New York City Marathon field. The athletes vary in age, gender, hometown, pace, ability, background, and motivation, but they are united by the transformative power of running and the belief that every step can change a life. This year’s Team Inspire includes first-time marathoners, seasoned athletes, runners who completed the first 5-boro marathon in 1976, charity runners putting purpose behind their miles to reach New York Road Runners’ $100 million fundraising goal, final finishers, and participants in New York Road Runners programs.