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27th November 2024 | Curiosity Bites
Our staff spotlight allows us to share some of the fantastic projects and remarkable achievements of our team of creatives at G.A Group during their free time.
For this edition of curiosity bites we are delighted to shine the spotlight on Christoph Guenther, designer from our New York office for his incredible accomplishment of completing the New York Marathon (for the second time!)…
On Sunday 5th November, Christoph joined a further 51,000 runners to take on the New York Marathon – the world’s largest marathon of 2023! Christoph was running for TFK (team for kids) Charity.
Christoph opens up about why he chose TFK, the emotions he experienced and insights and advice for those wanting to get involved…
Why TFK Charity?
It usually quite hard to get into these major marathons and I always considered using one of these charity entry options. For me TFK was the best choice because I do believe in their mission and want to support that a 100%. Helping children to build a healthy base and understanding of how important a routine in exercising like running is, will have an impact in their entire future life, in a really positive way. To learn how to focus on something, keep a routine and be disciplined, all that is worth a lot in so many other fields.
The coaches of the TFK team are amazing, they share so much energy and passion, it motivates you. They are well organized and on marathon day you have some exclusive perks such as a private TFK ferry, busses and a TFK tent near the start line, heated with coffee, bagels, energy gels and what not, …. that whole experience is definitely worth it. I’d would do it again with TFK!
How did it feel to cross the finish line?
Amazing, relieved, and just pure happiness. You just ended a 4-5 month journey and with everybody cheering and all that noise,… it moves you! That moment alone will let you sign up for the next one.
Do you have any other marathons on your list to complete?
I’d like to run all 6 (soon 7) majors but that’s easier said then done… This year I tried to get a spot for London, Tokyo, Berlin and Chicago… the first two already replied with a no, but I still hope to make it into Berlin. My twin brother already has a spot and it will be the 50th anniversary for the Berlin marathon meaning it will be huge and very special – well at least I think it will, haha!
And finally, any tips you would give to those who are wanting to get into long distance running?
Patience! It’s important to build up a good base, running form, discipline and routine. If you try to get fast too quickly your body won’t be able to catch up, which will lead to injuries and the process will take way longer. If you start too eager it might also kill the fun of it, because it might become something you HAVE to do rather something you WANT to do.
About the Charity…
Funds raised by Team for Kids members supports NYRR youth and community programs. This includes Rising New York Road Runners, NYRR’s youth program and events platform. Through school-based programs, youth events, and a collection of digital resources, Rising New York Road Runners brings free running and fitness programs to students across the country.
Since the charity started in 2002 $100 million dollars, funding various impactful projects.
In a monumental achievement Christoph and those dedicated individuals that ran this year for TFK have raised an extraordinary sum of
$6.7 million for the cause.
Find out more on the charity here
Christoph wasted no time signing up for next year’s marathon with NYRR Team for Kids, immediately after crossing the finish line. A truly remarkable achievement – well done, Chris!
