"Such a Positive Vibe" Draws Kids to Rising NYRR Program in Brooklyn

Evelyn Craig and her parents at the 2024 New Balance Indoor Nationals.

A few years ago, when Lisa Marzoff Craig was touring middle schools with her daughter, Evelyn, she was impressed to learn that one school, Sunset Park Prep in Brooklyn, had an afterschool running program organized by NYRR.

“At the time I only knew NYRR as an adult,” said Lisa, who had run the Brooklyn Half five times. “I thought they put on well-organized races that were a bit expensive.”

Evelyn ended up attending Sunset Park Prep and joining the Rising New York Road Runners afterschool program, known as the Patriots.

Running Is Fun

“It had such a positive vibe," Lisa said. "All the kids wanted to join, which can’t always be said about afterschool activities for that age."

She added, “We had no trouble getting Evelyn to go to practice. To see her and a bunch of kids wanting to stay after school to run was amazing.”

For three years, Evelyn attended practice two or three times a week and participated in races on the weekends. She became one of the Patriots' top performers, competing at the New Balance Indoor Nationals this past spring. But performance wasn’t the main point, said Lisa.

“She and all the kids ran because it was fun and there was camaraderie. They had a great time together and really bonded."  

Inspiration and Accountability

Lisa praised the Patriots' coaches for fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and inspiring atmosphere.

“The coaches treat the kids as athletes. They keep everyone motivated,” she said. “The kids all get faster, but it's never about who's the fastest. It’s about participating and being accountable. The coaches keep spreadsheets of everyone's attendance, progress, and race times, so they can see how they’re improving.”

Keeping Kids Running

Evelyn (left) ran the 2024 Times Square Kids Run at the United Airlines NYC Half.

The support by NYRR is invaluable, Lisa noted. “I have been overwhelmed by the support—equipment, New Balance shoes, buses to transport the kids and their families to the races.”

In March, dozens of Patriots took part in the Times Square Kids Run at the United Airlines NYC Half. “Some of these kids, they’d never been to Times Square, and here they are with the big buildings and bright lights. It’s a thrill for them, and they get the hats and medals—it makes them feel special.”

Seeing NYRR's support changed Lisa's perspective on her previous racing experiences. “Now, having had the experience as a parent, seeing the support, I’m happy to have spent the money [on race fees],” she said. 

“I wish everybody knew that bigger picture,” she added. “This is encouraging a whole new generation of kids to get outside and move their bodies and love doing it."

As Evelyn starts high school this fall, Lisa said she’s excited but a bit nostalgic for the Patriots.

“Everything NYRR has done for kids across the city to give them opportunities is amazing,” she said. “Together they positively affect so many kids and their families. It is truly remarkable.”