Donato runs the 2025 TCS NYC Marathon

My name is Donato Ruscitti, and I am an Italian-American dual citizen currently living in Brooklyn, New York. Since moving from Boulder, Colorado, to Brooklyn, running has become a central part of my life. I have completed two road marathons and numerous other races, finding in running not just a source of structure and motivation but also a way to explore the world around me and connect with my community. After several previous attempts to gain entry, I am beyond excited to finally run the NYC Marathon and race through the streets where I train and live.

I am proud to be fundraising for the Italian American Sport Foundation (IASF), which supports special sports initiatives that empower women and children to improve their lives and achieve their goals through athletics. The foundation provides scholarships for athletes, organizes sporting events for children, and offers specialized courses that help women develop confidence through sports. Growing up, I played a variety of sports, and many of my closest lifelong friendships were forged on the field (primarily little league baseball). Supporting this cause is deeply meaningful to me, as I know firsthand the profound impact that sports can have on personal growth and community building.