Matthew Gertz is excited to be running his first marathon this fall with Team Answer the Call!
Matthew began running during the COVID-19 pandemic when gyms started shutting down as a way to stay active. Now getting into a running groove, the TCS New York City Marathon is his top priority. For guaranteed entry, Matthew participated in all New York Road Runners 9+1 races to run the NYC marathon. This race has been on his mind for a while, and also has a special place in his family’s heart, as his parents met and trained for a marathon years ago.
Training has been going good for Matthew, yet finding the time in his weeks dedicated to longer mileage is a challenge. However, when that time is found, it is very rewarding and encouraging, “a mini success” he noted.
Matthew has a gift of compartmentalizing his thoughts towards the NYC marathon and training, taking everything piece by piece. Matthew is intentional about reminding himself that he is going to have to run a lot longer in the future, and how the strength built for the marathon comes from commitment now. Taking everything one step at a time and finding new locations to change up his runs has helped Matthew remain inspired. Additionally, although Matthew plans to run the marathon solo, he knows several other people running it and has appreciated the accountability throughout training.
Being in the insurance industry, Matthew has had the opportunity to work with Answer the Call and participate in the charity’s Red & Blue Soiree in the spring. Matthew’s grandfather was a firefighter out of Queens Village, who unfortunately passed before he was born, but his legacy has fueled Matthew to support Answer the Call and its mission.
Aside from training, Matthew enjoys following NY sports teams, especially the Yankees, and spending time with family and friends in the NYC area. He is excited to have those he loves cheering for him on race day and a cold glass of chocolate milk waiting for him at the end of the finish line, his favorite treat post-long run.
To the families that Answer the Call serves, Matthew shares, “I am very proud to continue to raise money and help families who’ve experienced a terrible loss.” Best of luck, Matthew!
Click here to support Matthew’s fundraising efforts!
Answer the Call’s 2025 Fall Intern, Morgan Schaefer, conducted this interview and wrote this blog post.
