The World’s Borough brings running to locals, including awards.
The running community gathered on Monday, June 1, for a surprise ceremony hosted by New York Road Runners (NYRR) to crown Ottília Demeter of Forest Park Runners as the next winner of the Miles of Impact Award. “The Bachelor” star and TV personality Matt James presented Demeter with a glass trophy and a bouquet of flowers in recognition of her community spirit and fortitude at Victory Field, a recreational section of Forest Park in Woodhaven.
Photo by Paulina Albarracin
Presented by Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), the award — an annual accolade that debuted last summer to inaugural winner Julia Azcona of Ridgewood Runners — celebrates dedicated runners who embody the core values of NYRR and HSS. Among the values are community spirit, inclusivity, gratitude and integrity, according to the Miles of Impact Award page. The criteria also search for “runners who go the extra mile — not just in their training, but in their resilience, passion, and impact on the running community.” Such finalists serve as inspiration for those around them by overcoming personal challenges with determination.
The winner receives a complimentary guaranteed entry to the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, an HSS Running Mechanics Analysis and a one-year NYRR x Runna training membership.
Photo by Paulina Albarracin
Ted Metellus, the NYRR Chief Event Production Officer and Race Director, described how it felt to have bestowed the distinguished award on Demeter.
“I often present our awards to our top athletes, and Ottília [Demeter]’s a top athlete,” said Metellus to QNS. “Whether it’s through the training, through the preparation, through the engagement, through the connections that she makes with the runners here, it was truly beautiful to be a part of it.”
Photo by Paulina Albarracin
As a beneficiary of HSS, James shared that he felt honored to welcome Demeter as the second Miles of Impact Award recipient, as it aligns with his passion for the sport and the organization — he described his involvement as “near and dear” to his heart.
“I think that we both have similar core values and align on the things that we want for the community,” said James about Demeter.
“I just hope that people are inspired by the work that Ottília has done and continues to do, and that they use her as an encouraging person to aspire towards,” added James.
Over 15 years ago, Demeter moved to the United States from Hungary, facing a significant barrier as she adjusted to learning English. After a brain tumor diagnosis, the Elmhurst-based runner turned to running as a coping mechanism, completing the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon with a shirt that read the following statement: “I’m running with a brain tumor. What’s your superpower?”
Photo courtesy of Will Schneiderhan
“At the time, I wanted to take control of my life again and improve my health,” said Demeter with QNS. “Running was my way of proving to myself that I was stronger than the challenges I had faced.” She added that running brought her “peace during difficult times” and helped her move forward with determination and discipline, underscoring the sport’s importance in runners’ lives.
Now, the 2026 Miles of Impact Award recipient is a coach with Forest Park Runners, Queens Center for Progress and Achilles International Queens, where she cultivates an inclusive space for runners and walkers of all levels. Through her personalized training programs, Demeter has brought the running community together through self-confidence and a sense of shared identity. In reflection of her newly minted title, she thanked the above organizations, including her loved ones, who trusted her to be a part of her journey.
When asked what she hoped people would take away from learning about her, Demeter hoped it would inspire them to never give up in the face of failure.
“Life will knock all of us down at some point,” said Demeter. “What matters is getting back up, over and over again, and continuing to try.”
“I also want people to know that you don’t have to be the fastest runner to make an impact. Everyone has something valuable to offer,” added Demeter. “Maybe your gift is running, maybe it’s cheering for others, coaching, volunteering, or simply helping someone who needs support. Find the thing you’re good at, stay consistent, and keep showing up. Small actions repeated over time can create an incredible impact.”
In terms of advice for those who wish to make a difference in their communities, Demeter encouraged people to show empathy toward everyone, regardless of background.
“Show up consistently. Welcome new people. Encourage someone who is struggling. Volunteer when you can,” said Demeter.
Photo by Paulina Albarracin
“As someone who came to New York from a small village in Hungary, I never imagined that running would lead me here,” noted Demeter. “This recognition means a great deal to me because it celebrates not just athletic achievement, but service, inclusion, and community.”
Frank Gallo, the president and race director of Forest Park Runners, expressed his pride in seeing one of his longtime members become a distinct running figure.
“We’re proud to see Ottília Demeter receive the 2026 NYRR Miles of Impact Award,” said Gallo. “Her coaching, leadership and the training culture she’s built make her an essential part of Forest Park Runners. We’re honored she is this year’s award recipient.”
Through her determination and humility, Demeter has shown the running community what it means to go the distance — in and out of the track.
“I accept this award on behalf of everyone who believes that running can change lives,” shared Demeter. “I am grateful for this recognition, and I hope it inspires even more people to get involved, support others, and make a positive difference in their communities.”
Ottília Demeter and Forest Park Runners after the ceremony at Forest Park. Photo by Paulina Albarracin
To learn more about NYRR and its mission, visit their website. To find out more about Forest Park Runners, follow their Instagram.