Runner Spotlight: Irina

By Will Braithwaite | March 13, 2024
A woman in sunglasses and a graduation gown and cap holds two adorable puppies (a chihuahua and a king charles cocker spaniel). Both dogs are wearing graduation caps too with tassles.

Irina with Javi and Remi

Today’s Runner Spotlight gives us a deep dive on Irina, who will be traveling from California to run the 2024 United Half Marathon! As an animal lover (specifically rescue pets), Irina can’t wait to run the half marathon Sunday to support PAWS and our amazing mission.

Read more about Irina in her Q&A below:

What is your connection to PAWS NY? Why is this cause important to you?

I care about pets and want to be involved in this cause – I have two dogs and one is a rescue. My dogs bring me so much joy in my life and I love PAWS’ mission of helping people stay with their pets even when they physically can’t care for them the way they want to. A dog’s love is the fastest way to bring joy into someone’s life and PAWS makes sure everyone has access to that joy, no matter their income level.

What are your pets’ names?

Javi and Remi! Javi is a long haired chihuahua rescued from Russia in 2018. Remi is a  cavalier king charles spaniel – she was the last one in the litter and no one wanted to adopt her because she was not pure bred! I saw her and knew she was perfect for me.

How long have you been running? What are some of your favorite places to run?

I’ve been running for over 15 years. My favorite places to run are the Muir Woods trails in Northern California – they’re absolutely gorgeous!

We’re so excited to cheer you on as you run Irina! Come watch Irina and the rest of Team PAWS crush it this Sunday 3/17 as they run through Brooklyn and Manhattan. 

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