Boston Marathon
“Running the Boston Marathon would be an incredible honor, but running it for my dad, my family, and this cause would make it unforgettable!”
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. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.
Name: Owen Hughes Jr.
Age: 38
From: White Plains, New York
My name is Owen Hughes, and in 2026 I hope to run the Boston Marathon for reasons that go far beyond crossing a finish line. Boston would be my ninth full marathon since I started running in 2022, and it represents one of the biggest dreams I have ever chased.
I am an elementary music and chorus teacher in Westchester, New York, and music has always taught me the value of patience, practice, and heart. Running has become another way I carry those lessons with me. What makes this race especially meaningful is that I am running to raise money for The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in honor of my father, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease a few years ago.
Parkinson’s affects nearly one million people in the United States alone, and countless families feel its impact every day. The Michael J. Fox Foundation is doing life-changing work by funding critical research, supporting new treatments, and giving hope to people living with Parkinson’s and those who love them. Supporting this foundation means supporting progress, compassion, and the possibility of a better future.
My parents have always been my biggest cheerleaders. They were there for every dance recital, theater performance, and concert, and they continue to show up for me in every chapter of my life. To have them cheering me on as I work toward one of my biggest running goals, while running for a cause that hits so close to home, would mean more than I can put into words.
Running the Boston Marathon would be an incredible honor, but running it for my dad, my family, and this cause would make it unforgettable!
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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