Aisling O’Dowd started running through Track and Field in high school, but considered herself more of a sprinter than long-distance runner. She has previously participated in the Brooklyn Half Marathon, and is now ready to take on a full marathon. Aisling’s mom is a big inspiration and source of encouragement in her decision to run the TCS New York City Marathon, as she completed it a few years ago.
Though training presents its difficulties, Aisling sometimes struggles with consistency, particularly as she’s running more mileage than ever before. Nevertheless, getting into a routine and confiding in her mom on the tougher days has greatly helped. Running is a mental game, and Aisling has found that very influential in her ability to successfully tackle the longer running days. Being intentional with listening to her mind and body has enhanced her mental toughness approaching the race. Taking breaks and not forcing herself to keep going if in pain has also made the transition to longer mileage easier.
Aisling plans to run this year’s marathon alongside her best friend Ciara McGee, who is also running on Team Answer the Call. Aisling was introduced to Answer the Call through Ciara, but also has fond childhood memories volunteering for a youth center who occasionally worked alongside our charity. Having family and friends in the NYPD, Aisling felt that representing Answer the Call was a great option and an opportunity to support them.
The full circle moment of having watched her mom and other family finish the TCS New York City Marathon and now getting to work towards it herself has been incredible. Motivated by the thought, “If my mom can do it, I can do it,” Aisling continues to make progress toward achieving her running goal.
After crossing the finish line, Aisling celebrates with a well-earned treat. Her go-to post-race meal is a burger, fries, and a beer—”The epitome of a long run.”
To the families of fallen first responders, Aisling shares: “I am so grateful to be running for a cause I support and for the families that have sacrificed so much. I hope running for this organization will help them and spread awareness to the light of Answer the Call’s mission.”
We are proud to have Aisling on Team Answer the Call!
Click here to support Aisling’s fundraising efforts!
Answer the Call’s 2025 Fall Intern, Morgan Schaefer, conducted this interview and wrote this blog post.
