Courtesy Queens Center for Progress
Christian Martinez, one of Team QCP’s runners, waving as he runs by.
By MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com
The Queens Centers for Progress (QCP) celebrated a day of triumph at this year’s TCS NYC Marathon, marking a special moment for its dedicated team of runners and the community they support. Team QCP, comprising individuals who embody resilience and determination, completed the 26.2-mile race to raise awareness for people with developmental disabilities.
Queens Centers for Progress is a nonprofit dedicated to providing person-centered services to children and adults with developmental disabilities. Its mission is to promote independence, community involvement, and a higher quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges. The organization offers a broad range of services aimed at meeting the needs of these individuals and their families.
This year’s marathon was not just a race, but a powerful show of unity, with participants running for a cause close to their hearts.
“Crossing that finish line was not only a powerful achievement but also an inspiring show of support for the children and adults with developmental disabilities who rely on QCP’s services every day,” the organization said in a statement.
Courtesy Queens Center for Progress
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. and Councilmember James F. Gennaro posing with John Bowne High School’s Arista Honor Society and Bayside High School’s Key Club.
Among the runners were Sterling Ivey, Sally Brophy, Elizabeth Sullebarger, Morgan Gryga, Hayden Gill, Melissa Milstrey, William Sullebarger, and Christian Martinez. Each runner pushed through the grueling course, raising funds and awareness for QCP’s mission with every stride.
As the marathon route passed through Queens, the energy in Long Island City surged, with QCP setting up a festive cheer section to encourage the runners. For the 14th consecutive year, the organization partnered with the Queens Economic Development Corporation (QEDC) and the Queens Tourism Council to create a lively support station just past mile 14 at 44th Drive and 21st Street. Local students from Bayside High School’s Key Club and John Bowne High School’s Arista Honor Society joined in, offering high-fives and cheers that helped keep the runners energized during some of the race’s most challenging miles.
QCP was not alone in spreading motivation along the course. Achilles International, a nonprofit supporting athletes with disabilities, also participated, adding to the event’s spirit of resilience and determination. Their presence reinforced the message that physical challenges can be overcome, inspiring everyone in their path.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. made a special appearance to cheer on the runners, praising their spirit.
“I just love the resilience of the runners and know that every single one of them has their own story to tell,” Richards Jr. said. “They trained and maybe they’re running for a purpose—but no matter what, they are finishing this race—no matter how fast, no matter how slow. It is an amazing feeling to be out here cheering with the students from local high schools in Queens, all of whom brought excitement to our cheer section, creating a great memory of our borough for the runners.”
Courtesy Queens Center for Progress
John Bowne High School’s Arista Honor Society and Bayside High School’s Key Club cheering on the runners.
Councilmember James F. Gennaro also joined the celebrations, showing his support for both the marathon participants and QCP’s mission.
“Having Borough President Richards and Councilmember Gennaro join us made the day even more special, showcasing what it really means to have our community coming together for a great cause” said Wendy Phaff-Gennaro, QCP’s Director of Development.
The success of Team QCP was made possible through the guidance of their coach, Ottilia Demeter, whose unwavering support helped the runners through months of training.
As the event wrapped up, QCP expressed its excitement for next year’s marathon, already preparing to support a new group of runners.
“To those on Team QCP who are gearing up to take on the marathon in 2025, we are already looking forward to cheering you on next year!” the nonprofit said.
Courtesy Queens Center for Progress
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. and Councilmember James F. Gennaro.
