Saddle River man to compete in first marathon as handcyclist

Ron Gold of Saddle River 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.

A near-fatal accident at the end of a 50-mile bike ride left Ron Gold a T-12 paraplegic in 2011. After 6 months in hospitals and rehab, he could barely move on his own initially but slowly built back his life and interests, including becoming a para-rower. With the support of Achilles International, he recently rekindled interest in road races through hand-cycling. Having worked in Hartford years ago just out of college, Gold chose to return for his debut marathon and first time cycling on the road. He hopes to encourage others as he continues his work as a speaker and mentor for paraplegics.

“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 Ron Gold on the 2023 Inspiration Team are:

• Rachel Berkowsky of Windham, Connecticut
• Rebecca Boncoddo of Mansfield, Connecticut
• Christina Carmon of Windsor, Connecticut
• John Garde of Westfield, Massachusetts
• Debra Lombardo of Waterbury, Connecticut
• Jose Lugo of Hartford, Connecticut
• Erin McDonald of Waterford, Connecticut
• Steph McKenna of Ellington, Connecticut
• Anthony Rykowski of Naugatuck, Connecticut
• Jennifer Zarrilli of Wallingford, Connecticut

Each Inspiration Team member will either be participating in 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.