Meet the Marathoners: Team Achilles Charity Runners Take on Boston
From seasoned marathoners to first-time participants, every Team Achilles charity runner has been inspired by the transformative impact of Achilles, and their commitment is helping to raise vital funds that will ensure athletes with disabilities have the opportunity to compete and achieve their goals.
This is Achilles' second year as a member of the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program. We are incredibly proud to support our dedicated team of runners. Each of them has a unique story and connection to the Achilles mission. Read more about why the below runners chose to fundraise for Achilles as they train for the 2025 Bank of America Boston Marathon.
Cinthia running and smiling in her Team Achilles shirt.
Cinthia Fernholz, 49, New York, NY
“I chose to run for Team Achilles because I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible impact this organization has on its athletes. My daughter Cristina, has been running in Central Park with Achilles Kids for several years. I've seen how transformative the experience has been for her. Running has brought her confidence, joy, and a strong sense of community. The guides always greet her with warmth and enthusiasm, and their support has meant the world to us.
It’s a true honor to run and raise funds for an organization that has given so much to my family and to so many others. Every time I see Achilles guides running alongside athletes in races, I’m moved by their teamwork, determination, and joy. It’s truly inspiring.”
Ali running and smiling in her Team Achilles shirt.
Ali Hoffman, 24, Long Island, NY
“My connection to Team Achilles has been deeply impactful, starting when I watched the Boston Marathon during college and later deciding to run my first marathon in New York City, fundraising for Achilles. With the support of my family and mentors, including Francesco and Tianna, I trained and raced despite my doubts.
A week before the marathon, I lost my grandmother, but I knew she would have wanted me to continue. I crossed the finish line wearing an Achilles shirt with her name on it and learned I had qualified for Boston.
Through Achilles, I’ve witnessed the resilience of athletes who redefine what ‘ability’ means, and I am incredibly grateful to be part of this inspiring community, committed to giving back and supporting others.”
Photo of Jack running.
Jack Sirett, 37, London, United Kingdom
“I guide with Achilles in London so it only made sense to combine chasing my final [Abbott World Marathon Major] star with raising funds for the amazing cause! Sport has always been and will always be a fantastic way to bring people together.
Achilles' mission to make sport accessible to all is so important to so many in giving people the opportunity to participate and ultimately get the many benefits that sport brings. In supporting Achilles, you are supporting enriching people’s lives through sport which in today's world is as important as ever!”
Learn more about how you can earn guaranteed entry to endurances races by fundraising for Achilles’ mission as a Team Achilles charity entrant.
