Every year, New York Road Runners shines a spotlight on the heartbeat of its races—its incredible volunteers. At this year’s annual ceremony, a record-breaking group of over 22,000 volunteers was celebrated for dedicating a staggering 112,000+ hours to events and programs throughout the city. Special recognition went to several individuals who were welcomed into the NYRR Volunteer Hall of Fame for their years of selfless service.
As reported in a NYC Newswire release, New York Road Runners marked Global Volunteer Month with their annual Volunteer Hall of Fame Ceremony and an Appreciation Dinner. The event was dedicated to acknowledging the volunteers who make races and community programs possible across NYC.
This past year alone, the organization benefited from more than 22,000 volunteers, who together put in over 112,000 hours. That included 116 volunteer captains logging close to 2,100 hours at NYRR Open Runs spanning parks across New York City and Jersey City.
NYRR Volunteer Awards: Record-Breaking Numbers
New York Road Runners used Global Volunteer Month as a chance to thank those who support races, city events, and initiatives year-round with their annual awards and dinner event.
For 2025, the impact was huge: more than 22,000 volunteers and 112,000+ hours given. The 116 captains were especially vital to NYRR Open Runs in parks stretching from NYC to Jersey City.
“From the TCS New York City Marathon to the 5th Avenue Mile, and every Open Run and weekend race, we truly could not do it all without our incredible volunteers,” said NYRR CEO Rob Simmelkjaer. “Global Volunteer Month gives us a chance to highlight their remarkable contributions—without them, the NYRR experience simply wouldn’t be possible.”
Celebrating Hall of Fame Inductees
This year, three outstanding individuals joined the NYRR Volunteer Hall of Fame, recognized for decades of giving back.
Dwayne Evans, Robert Moore, and Darnley Simon each have unique journeys that speak to the spirit of service in the running community.
Evans, who started volunteering in 1990 thanks to a nudge from his track coach, has returned to help at the NYC Marathon every year—often joined by family, turning volunteering into a tradition.
Moore began volunteering after a health scare in 2015, working with NYRR to launch an Open Run in Inwood. Not only did he improve his own well-being, but he also became a leader in the volunteer community.
“When people show up at Open Run, I want them to feel welcome and supported,” Moore shared. “I’m always there for them.”
Simon got her start back in 1995, helping at hundreds of races and eventually running several marathons herself.
“Volunteering has given me a whole new family—it’s full of joy and camaraderie,” said Simon. “Recognition is wonderful, but I truly do this because I love it.”
Spotlighting Outstanding Volunteers
Beyond the Hall of Fame, five dedicated volunteers received the Outstanding Volunteer Award for their time, leadership, and support throughout the year.
These honorees have played pivotal roles in everything from pacing to medical teams, with many logging over 100 hours in a single year. Kenneth Grumer stepped up during the pandemic, Otto Lam has paced countless races, and Beth Schmal is a fixture with marathon medical crews.
Cynthia Sung and John Wagner were also recognized for years of consistent, hands-on involvement across running programs and races.
Recognizing Service and Medical Volunteers
NYRR also handed out 21 Volunteer Service Awards to those who each gave more than 100 hours. Plus, 12 medical captains—crucial to marathon day logistics and clinical care—were thanked for keeping everyone safe and events running smoothly.
How Volunteers Shape NYC
The NYRR volunteer force is behind over 60 annual races and a host of year-round community projects, including youth programming and free weekly runs in neighborhoods citywide.
Their efforts bolster public health, fitness, and community spirit across New York.
Since launching the Volunteer Hall of Fame in 2021, NYRR continues to salute those who go above and beyond every Global Volunteer Month.
To keep up with running news, see our NYC Sport Network for updates on events and volunteer opportunities throughout the five boroughs.
Photo by Carla G. Torres for NYRR
Looking Ahead for NYRR Volunteers
The opportunities keep growing—NYRR plans to offer more than 28,000 volunteer slots each year for those who want to get involved. Details about upcoming roles were first shared in their official press release on NYC Newswire.
Get to Know NYRR: Frequently Asked
What is NYRR?
New York Road Runners is a nonprofit that organizes races and community fitness programs around New York City.
How many people volunteer each year?
In 2025, more than 22,000 volunteers contributed over 112,000 hours—a new record for the organization.
What is the Volunteer Hall of Fame?
This honorary group recognizes those who have shown exceptional commitment and leadership through their years of volunteer service.
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