Runner Spotlight: Shay

Shay, a tall woman with dark hair, wear a black top and green shoes and shorts as she runs in a race in a park.

Shay running a previous race.

PAWS NY is excited to once again have a team running in the TCS New York City Marathon this year—and we want to introduce you to our fabulous runners. First up is Shay from Brooklyn, who is excited to fundraise and run on behalf of PAWS NY in the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon. 

While she has been running her entire life, this will be Shay’s first full marathon. Learn more about Shay in her Q&A below and help us cheer her on this November 6!


Why did you decide to run the 2022 TCS NYC Marathon? Have you participated in long races in the past?

This will be my first marathon and why not start big with NYC! I have ran two half marathons previously in the past year. 

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

PAWS is a great organization that keeps pets in the homes of a vulnerable community of people. I know how much my pets have helped me through things in the past, which is why PAWS is such an incredible concept.

A woman with dark hair and sunglasses stands in front of a balloon archway with her dog, a black lab mix. She is wearing a white tank top and black shorts, while the dog has a yellow harness.

Shay and her dog

Do you have any pets of your own? Did you grow up with pets?

I grew up with pets and realize how much they add to your life. I have a beautiful 2-year-old black lab/shepherd mix that I rescued from the Humane Society, who is my favorite stress reliever. 

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

I have been running my entire life. My favorite place to run is either San Diego in Mission Beach or my grandparents house in Westerly, Rhode Island.

What do you do in your free time (besides running)?

I am also a yoga instructor and have an obsession of traveling and seeing new places!

Share 2-3 fun facts about yourself! What should we know?

I traveled Europe for 24 days by myself and I love the game cribbage.


Thanks so much for your support, Shay! We can’t wait to watch you crush your first Marathon in November! Click here to support Shay and other members of Team PAWS NY.