Four Local Runners to Tackle 130th Boston Marathon® in Support of MetroWest Youth

FRAMINGHAM, MA – While the 130th Boston Marathon® presented by Bank of America features world-class elite athletes, four local runners are taking on the historic 26.2-mile course with a different kind of motivation: the future of MetroWest youth.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest is proud to introduce Amanda Manteuffel, Riley Kussmaul, Mary Lassey, and Sameer Rahman as the official 2026 Marathon Team. Running on behalf of the thousands of children served by the Club, these four athletes are turning every mile into an investment in the health and well-being of the next generation.

Chosen for their dedication to the MetroWest community, these runners, are participating through the official charity program, providing a unique opportunity to race in this historic event while fundraising for a critical cause. The team’s primary mission is to raise essential funds for Healthy Lifestyles programming at the Framingham Clubhouse. These programs serve as a lifeline for local youth, many of whom face significant barriers to physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Currently, over 60% of BGCMW members come from under-resourced communities, and 55% live in single-parent households. By supporting these four runners, donors are directly funding nutrition education, mental health support through social-emotional learning, and daily fitness programs that ensure every child has a safe space for sports and recreation.

"As a father of two children, I am a firm believer that every child deserves the opportunity to have a brighter future," said runner Sameer Rahman. "This organization consistently provides them with a safe space with access to the resources required to build confidence and become contributing members of society. Running a marathon is hard, but when you are running for something greater than yourself—that is when the whole experience is actually life's greatest gift."

The funds raised by the 2026 Marathon Team will ensure that these vital resources remain accessible to families in Framingham and the surrounding MetroWest region, helping children build the building blocks of a healthy life. "Team BGCMW represents the heart of our community," said Chris Duane, President & CEO of BGCMW. "Amanda, Riley, Mary, and Sameer are showing our kids that with grit and support, any finish line is reachable. We invite the entire MetroWest region to get behind them."

To learn more about the runners’ stories or to donate toward their fundraising goals, please visit: www.givengain.com/campaign/join-us-for-130th-boston-marathonr-31757

About Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest: The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest has enabled community youth most in need to achieve great futures as productive, caring, responsible citizens. The Clubs serve more than 3,200 youth each year across its’ three Clubhouses in Hudson, Marlborough, and Framingham. The Club maintains a low membership fee of $25 per year, per child because of the generous support provided by local companies, foundations, and individuals. To learn more about or donate to the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest, please visit www.bgcmetrowest.org.