This NYC gym teacher is running Boston to inspire youth

Boston Marathon

Jon Jacome is running the Boston Marathon for Good Sports, an organization that supports youth access to sports and physical activity.

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston.

Name: Jon Jacome
Age: 30
City/state: Poughkeepsie, New York

Growing up, I was always active and loved playing sports. In 2020, I was looking for a new way to stay active, so I registered for the New York City Marathon. The race was postponed, but it turned out to be the perfect time to start running since it was one of the few activities I could do during COVID. After completing the marathon, I was hooked. The adrenaline, the sense of accomplishment after months of training, and the camaraderie of being part of something that big was unforgettable. I wanted to prove to myself I could do it again and set my sights on the Chicago Marathon. While searching for a charity to partner with, I found Good Sports, an organization that provides equitable access to youth sports and physical activity for children in underserved communities. After Chicago, I set my eyes on the Boston Marathon, the last of the U.S. based World Major Marathons, to continue my support for Good Sports.

As a physical education teacher and coach in NYC, I see these inequities everyday. I believe all children deserve access to physical activity and sports, and Good Sports’ mission aligns perfectly with my values. Kids need to be exposed to healthy habits and link physical activity with fun so they can mature into fit and healthy adults. Sports and physical activity are more than just having fun. It can teach children important life skills such as teamwork and leadership.

Running is more than just about the health benefits to me. It exemplifies the importance of setting goals, commitment, and discipline—skills I try to teach my students every day. I hope my journey serves as an inspiration to my students and others, showing them the importance of being physically active, setting goals, and putting in the hard work to achieve them.