MEET OUR 2024 RUNNERS

Support a runner, support a reef.

Meet this year’s runners & showcase your support for their run and Billion Oyster Project with a gift.

 
 

Josh Argast 

Josh decided to run the NYC marathon because of how inspired he was by watching all of the runners over the years as a spectator! I’m running for BOP because I’ve been volunteering with them for years so I know firsthand how worthy of a cause it is.

Most exciting part of the run: I’m most excited for Mile 12 in Greenpoint because I live right there and my family will be in town cheering me on!

Charles Kowalczyk

Charles decided to run the marathon because he’s an avid runner and to him, it represents the epitome of a physical challenge and a great way to support an organization that he loves. While he faced a stress fracture weeks away from the race last year and had to pull out at the last minute, he’s excited to come back this year even stronger!

Charles has been involved with Billion Oyster Project for almost three years now as a member of their Young Leadership Committee (YLC). I think BOP is one of the most incredible local organizations in the city. Their work spans science, sustainability, and education, and they make a tangible and truly significant impact on the local community, our students, and our waterways, and I couldn't be more excited to run the marathon for their benefit.

Most exciting part of the run: After getting injured weeks away from the race last year, he’s been working towards this for so long, he just can't wait to hopefully cross the finish line.

GIOVANNA KUPIec

As a native New Yorker and avid runner to keep her ADHD in check, the NYC marathon has been on Giovanna’s list for years. She’s even more thrilled to be running it in support of her home organization and fellow crew members at Billion Oyster Project. As a high school student, Giovanna fell in love with the restoration work happening outside the 96th St. Boat Basin; holding Hudson River oysters from prototype Oyster Research Stations while on a field trip. Since, she’s dedicated her career to supporting marine science and research communications, right here at home – “last place you’d expect to see this kind of work.”

Most exciting part of the run: This is her first marathon, but Giovanna’s really excited to get up to the Bronx River bridges. However, she’s relying on Ben Salus to keep her from running off-course to Roberto’s on Arthur Avenue for a carbonara before the finish line.

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Jared Lowenthal

This is Jared’s favorite day of the year in New York, and on his bucket list to be part of it. He joined Billion Oyster Project on a trip around New York Harbor and saw our work firsthand; oyster reef restoration and education. He wanted to play a small part in helping raise awareness and funds for this effort.

“And you know they say when you're 30... you're either married or running a marathon.... “

Most exciting part of the run: The final stretch on First Avenue and the electric atmosphere. He’s been on the other side of the fence watching it multiple times, and he believes the energy and excitement from the crowd in that area truly brings out the best in New York.

Rebecca Offensend

Rebecca thinks the marathon is something every New York runner should do once - and her time has come! She’s continuously amazed at the ecological power of oysters as water purifiers, ecosystem builders, and delicious snacks! She loves that Billion Oyster Project is creating a stronger, safer, and better harbor for all New Yorkers using these amazing creatures.

Ben Salus

To Ben, the marathon is the biggest day of the year in New York; where you have almost 1,000,000 people out and about celebrating the city and running –the most infectious source of energy he’s ever experienced. A beloved member of our crew who leaves every volunteer he works with ready to come back for more, Ben has come to fall in love with Billion Oyster Project, too –how accessible it is to ascertain the work we do here.

“It’s the only organization in New York that connects restaurants, students and citizens of the city to try to not only clean the harbor but create an autonomous waterway for New Yorkers today and beyond.”

Most exciting part of the run: Running over the Queensboro Bridge and hearing the electric crowd in Manhattan.

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Team Member Benefits

Commit to raise $4,000 and you’ll receive:

  • Bib for race entry

  • Billion Oyster Project running shirt

  • Personal online fundraising page

  • Scripted social media posts for individual fundraising

  • Fundraising tips and online toolkit

  • Training tips and opportunities to engage with other BOP runners

Why run for BOP?

"Billion Oyster Project’s mission aligns with so much that’s important to me,” said Andoni Mourdoukoutas. “I was thrilled to be able to run for them this year!”

FAQs

How many spots are available? Billion Oyster Project is allotted a limited number of race entries each year. This year, we have 5 bibs available.

Am I responsible for paying my entry fee? Yes, NYRR members must pay a runner fee of $255. NYRR non-members are responsible for a runner fee of $295.

What if I don’t meet the minimum fundraising amount? By joining Team BOP, you agree to raise a minimum of $4,000 by November 3, 2024. If you have not reached the fundraising requirement by that date, you will personally be responsible for paying the balance owed.

I have automatic entry or won the NYC Marathon lottery! Can I still run for Team Billion Oyster Project? Absolutely! We ask that runners with automatic entry to agree to raise $1,500 for Billion Oyster Project.