Hartford runner overcomes adversities to reach race milestone

Jose Lugo of Hartford is among eleven people chosen by the Hartford Marathon Foundation (HMF) to represent the 2023 Inspiration Team at the 30th running of the Eversource Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon on October 14, 2023. Team members represent the resilience, motivation and kindness of the running community who have made the marathon a tradition so special since its inception in 1994.

Being an overweight youth with scoliosis, Jose Lugo’s self-esteem was low. He started running in 2010 and through his journey gained confidence and a sense of community while losing over 60 pounds. Jose encourages others to run or move and he enjoys giving back to the local support system, which he feels is judgement-free. Born and raised in Hartford, Lugo will proudly finish his 35th half marathon on October 14 where he completed his first 13.1 and first marathon years ago.

“The success of the Eversource Hartford Marathon is because of our dedicated runners, volunteers and sponsors. The members of this year’s Inspiration Team represent members of the community who inspire or make a positive impact on those around them,” said Josh Miller, President of the Hartford Marathon Foundation. “We are excited to celebrate this year’s race milestone and look forward to celebrating the achievements of all the runners who cross the finish line on race day.”

Joining Jose Lugo on the 2023 Inspiration Team are:

• Rachel Berkowsky of Windham
• Rebecca Boncoddo of Mansfield
• Christina Carmon of Windsor
• John Garde of Westfield, Massachusetts
• Ron Gold of Saddle River, New Jersey
• Debra Lombardo of Waterbury
• Erin McDonald of Waterford
• Steph McKenna of Ellington
• Anthony Rykowski of Naugatuck
• Jennifer Zarrilli of Wallingford

Each Inspiration Team member will either be running the 5K, half marathon, or full marathon on race day. Members of the 2023 Inspiration Team will be profiled within the Eversource Hartford Marathon Insider’s Guide and receive complimentary race registration, PRE Perks experience and custom event apparel. The inspiration team concept was developed by HMF in 2011.

Learn more about the Eversource Hartford Marathon events, register now or sign up to volunteer at www.hartfordmarathon.com.

About the Hartford Marathon Foundation
The Hartford Marathon Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994 to create and manage fitness events that inspire people to be healthy and fit. Located in East Hartford, Connecticut, the Hartford Marathon Foundation organizes more than 30 annual athletic races, including the Eversource Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon, and training programs for youth runners. For more information, visit http://www.HartfordMarathon.com and on Facebook at HMF Events, Twitter at @RunHMF and Instagram at HMF_Events.