Today’s Runner Spotlight is about another Amanda, Amanda L, who will be running the 2024 NYC Marathon in November. As someone who has always had pets and loved animals, Amanda is excited to fundraise for PAWS NY and support our mission.
Read more about Amanda in her Q&A below:
What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?
While I am currently a Florida resident, I grew up in NJ only a short train ride away from NYC. I work as an occupational therapist helping people regain, maintain, or retain their independence with life skills after an injury or illness. This charity is a really unique opportunity for me as a dog mom, animal lover and OT! Knowing this money is helping support those who can not care for their animals provides another outlet for me to support those in need.
Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets? Tell us about them!
I currently have the privilege of being a dog mom to my sweet 11 year old Vizsla named Bruce! Bruce was named after the character in Matilda (yes the one from the chocolate cake scene), and while I originally planned on getting a boy dog there were only females left in her litter. So like a boy named Sue, she’s a girl named Bruce! In her younger days Bruce was my running buddy, and while she’s slowed down now she still enjoys long walks to the beach (or the local coffee shop for a pup cup).
How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?
I joined my high school track team for one winter season before going out with an injury (should have known then I’d get hooked eventually). While I fell in love with Pilates shortly afterwards, as a poor college student I found myself falling back in love with running. Whenever I go back to visit my alma mater, Florida State University (GO NOLES) I’m always sure to pack my running shoes. There’s something about running under that Spanish moss that always takes me back. I live in Atlantic Beach, Florida currently and love running through this sleepy beach town.
What do you do in your free time (besides run)?
When not on a run you can find me out and about walking with my sweet girl Bruce, laying out at the beach or cozied up on the couch watching the latest Dateline or 20/20. I’m also a Pure Barre instructor (going on 7 years)!
We’re so excited to cheer you on as you run Amanda! Click here to donate to Amanda L’s fundraising page or support the team overall.
