Shaden Awad to Run 26.2 Miles in NYC Marathon Debut

Shaden Awad will cover 26.2 miles on November 1 in her first New York City Marathon. The Queens resident will compete as a member of Team Inspire, a group organized by New York Road Runners that features participants with distinct personal histories.

Awad, who was born and raised in New Jersey, began running in the seventh grade when she joined her middle school track and cross-country teams. She describes the activity as a primary method for managing anxiety that has persisted since childhood. "I've always kind of struggled with anxiety, even as a child," Awad said. "And running has been really, really good for that."

Her participation in the 2026 race is the result of the 9+1 program. Last year, Awad and her brother completed nine qualifying races and volunteered for one event to secure guaranteed entry. During that preparation period, she explored new parks and neighborhoods across the five boroughs.

The runner’s family background heavily influences her perspective on the event. Awad is the daughter of Palestinian immigrants who arrived in the United States at age 30. Both parents have physical disabilities, yet they encouraged their children to prioritize physical activity. Awad cites a Palestinian proverb that guides her life: "They planted so we would eat, and we plant so those after us eat."

She views her parents' decision to move as a sacrifice to allow their children to enjoy the results of their labor. "My parents came here. They knew that they would have to start from the bottom and build up for us to kind of experience and enjoy the fruits of their labor," Awad explained.

Awad volunteered at the marathon expo last year, handing out race bibs to other participants. She recalled thinking that the next year, she would be the one crossing the finish line. "I was like, 'Oh my gosh, this is going to be me next year,'" she said.

The runner credits New York Road Runners for creating an inclusive environment. She noted that the marathon is defined by the variety of participants, not just elite competitors. "It's not just the top 10% elite runners that are running it in three hours. It's everyone who's running a three-hour marathon, a six-hour marathon, a ten-hour marathon," Awad stated.

The 2026 TCS New York City Marathon takes place on November 1. Pre-show coverage for Channel 7 begins at 7:00 a.m. that day. Awad will run through all five boroughs, representing Team Inspire alongside other runners with diverse backgrounds and abilities.