For Rocha, it’s one more N.Y. marathon

Freeport’s Alma Rocha, the principal of Columbus Avenue School, once again made her way through the streets of the five boroughs during this year’s New York City Marathon, finishing the race for the 32nd time on Nov 5. 

A seasoned long-distance runner and a stalwart member of the eight-member Team Mission United, Rocha’s journey through the city wasn’t just a personal accomplishment, but a testament to her unwavering commitment to supporting Long Island’s veterans and military families.

Notably, the collective efforts of the team resulted in an impressive achievement of raising over $32,000. Within this commendable total, Rocha’s division played a significant role by contributing an additional $2,000 to the cause.

The funds generated through this initiative are instrumental in assisting veterans with various aspects of their lives, including job preparation, emergency financial assistance, case management, and housing development.

The New York Marathon attracts more than 50,000 runners, ranging from top professional athletes to runners of all ages and abilities, as well as 10,000 charity racers. Over 125 nationalities are represented as participants traverse the different areas of New York City’s five boroughs—Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan.

More than a million spectators and 10,000 volunteers line the streets of the city to cheer on the runners, while millions more watch the worldwide broadcast. The New York City Marathon recognizes United Way of Long Island as an official Charity Partner.

Acknowledging the growing difficulty with each passing year, Rocha recalled the challenges encountered during training, asserting that the will to overcome obstacles is key.

“Every year gets a little bit harder during training, and training is more of a challenge,” Rocha said. “If you have the will, you find a way.”

The marathon, beyond its physical demands, presented Rocha with poignant moments that fueled her determination. She found inspiration in the resilience of fellow runners, particularly veterans running with missing limbs. Their unbreakable spirit served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served in their country.

“The highlight during these races always comes when you see people with way greater challenges than you,” Rocha said. “You have veterans, service men running with missing arms, some with missing legs. It is inspiring to see them and how they face the 26 miles. It is really uplifting.”

Rocha’s annual participation in the marathon is driven by a deep sense of honor to represent Long Island’s veterans. She views it as an opportunity to contribute, albeit in a small way, to the well-being of those who have selflessly served their country.

“What keeps me coming back is my honor to represent the veterans of Long Island,” Rocha said. “It’s my honor to contribute in a very small way. Every year, I have the opportunity to meet veterans benefiting from Mission United, and you see how grateful they are with little things that we can do.”

Rocha moved to New York City from Mexico City when she was 26 years old. She ran her first New York City Marathon that year, and has raced every year since. Running, she said, helps her clear her head and tackle the problems of an elementary school principal.

The marathon is especially significant to Rocha because she is running to make a difference.

“The first time I ran the Long Island Half Marathon was the first time I saw veterans running with just one limb,” she said. “In Mexico, war was something far from me. So when I ran the half marathon, it was real for me to see someone with a lost arm or leg. The impact that had on me to be able to come back to the world with crutches or wheelchairs takes my heart. I thought, “If veterans can run this, what can a regular person do?”

Preparing for the marathon requires meticulous planning and dedication. Rocha’s training routine, emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition and healthy eating habits. In the month leading up to the race, she dedicated five hours a day to running, striving to align her mindset with the grueling demands of the marathon.

“I’m so grateful that I have a smile on my face to get me through the finish line,” Rocha said. “It gets harder every year, but this is a challenge for me. If I can do this, I can do many other things that I can put in my mind. It’s really an incentive for myself.”

For those inspired to contribute to Team Mission United’s fundraising efforts, donations can be made at unitedwayli.org/teammissionunited.