Folsom runner Goga Moore, now wheelchair-bound, trains with service dog Ronaldo and raises funds for local nonprofits while preparing for the Boston Marathon
FOLSOM, Calif. — Goga Moore, a longtime runner and CrossFit coach from Folsom, has transformed a life-changing injury into an inspiring new chapter as an adaptive athlete. Now competing in hand cycling and push swimming, Moore is preparing to take on the Boston Marathon on April 20.
After an injury left her wheelchair-bound, Moore leaned into adaptive sports while continuing her involvement in the fitness community through CrossFit coaching and training. She now trains throughout the Greater Sacramento area, including the American River bike trail system, building endurance for one of the world’s most prestigious races.
Moore’s journey has come full circle in another meaningful way. A former volunteer puppy raiser for Canine Companions, she was recently matched with her own service dog, Ronaldo. In a remarkable twist, Ronaldo was raised locally by a friend of Moore’s, deepening her connection to the organization and its mission.
“The Sacramento running community has embraced me without question,” Moore said. “Every race I’ve entered has been supportive and open to making events accessible.”
As she prepares for Boston, Moore is also giving back. She is fundraising for Canine Companions and Walk for Austin, aiming to raise awareness and support for both organizations ahead of race day. Those interested in supporting her efforts can donate here: https://givebutter.com/ronaldos-run-for-a-reason-boston-bound-lhf9id
Her journey will also be celebrated locally during Puppy Nation, taking place March 23–30. The nationwide event highlights the volunteers, puppy raisers and supporters who make it possible for Canine Companions to provide service dogs at no cost.
As part of that celebration, the Gold Rush Chapter is partnering with Fleet Feet Sacramento to host a special send-off for Moore during its Run Crew event on March 24. The weekly run typically draws dozens of local runners, who will gather to support Moore as she heads to Boston.
“When I cross the finish line, my message to Sacramento will be simple: we did it, and we did it together,” Moore said.
Moore is documenting her journey with Ronaldo on social media, where supporters can also follow her progress leading up to race day.
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