Q&A with 2019 TCS NYC Marathon Runner, Becky Gatto

Author: Stephanie Zlotnick
Community Involvement
Published: Monday, 26 Aug 2019

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Becky Gatto, 42, is running the 2019 TCS NYC Marathon with Team JA New York! This will be Becky's first marathon ever! Check out what keeps her motivated, her favorite bands to run to, and more!

Q: How did you get involved with JA New York?

A: My company, Robert Half, has been partnering with JANY for several years now. I became an in-classroom volunteer about 3 years ago and I have loved every minute of it!

Q: Why did you decide to run the 2019 TCS NYC Marathon?

A: Frankly, running a marathon has always been something I wanted to do but was reluctant for obvious reasons. I started doing half marathons a few years ago and decided to go for the full this year in the best City- NYC!

Q: Who/what is your biggest motivation to train?

A: I think I felt motivated to run and train for the marathon because it seemed scary and impossible for me to accomplish. Mostly, I love showing my 2 young boys that it’s never too late to challenge yourself and it means the world to make them proud of me! I recently read a quote that really resonated with me “Happiness is the joy we feel striving after our potential.”

Q: How do you measure success as a runner?

A: If you run, you’re a runner and that to me is something to be celebrated. A successful runner puts in the time and effort to achieve whatever goal they set out for themselves – whether they reach that goal or not. The older I get, the more I realize how lucky I am to be able to enjoy going for a run.

Q: What is the best running/training lesson you’ve learned?

A: Being a distance runner is not something that develops overnight. The key is to be consistent and don’t over-do it. Listen to your body, make sure you fuel and sleep well and take those much-needed days off to rest and regenerate. Your hard work will pay off, but you need to be smart about taking care of yourself along the way.

Q: What is the most challenging part of marathon training?

A: There’s no doubt that marathon training is both mentally and physically challenging. The hardest part can be carving out the time and commitment in our busy lives to make the time. I am grateful to my family for their support (and time away spent training) while I embark on this adventure.

Q: What are your favorite pre- and post-run meals?

A: Water, Gatorade, a handful of gummies and a plain bagel beforehand. Post-run, I likely reach for a banana, pretzels and an adult refreshment or 2.

Q: What are some songs on your favorite running playlist?

A: Tons of Classic Rock - Led Zeppelin, the Who and newer music like Mumford and Sons, Imagine Dragons with bouts of hip hop. I like running to music that makes me happy and keeps me calm yet motivated.