More than a thousand participants gathered in Old Wethersfield, Connecticut, for the Hartford Marathon Foundation’s 5K and 10K races on Sunday. Among them was Middletown resident Joshua Berger, whose personal transformation has become a centerpiece of the event.
From 370 lb to 170 lb: a personal health breakthrough
Just fifteen months ago, Berger weighed 370 pounds. Through a disciplined running regimen, he has reduced his weight to 170 pounds—a 200‑pound loss that he says has reshaped his daily life. “I just realized that I can do more,” Berger told organizers after crossing the finish line.
Berger’s commitment to running began as a simple effort to become more active, but it quickly evolved into a deeper passion. “Once I started running, I was hooked,” he explained. His dedication earned him a nomination for the Hartford Marathon Foundation’s Inspirational Athlete award, a recognition he described as “thrilling.”
Community impact beyond the race
The Hartford Marathon Foundation’s All the Way series, of which this race is a part, aims to bring runners to communities across Connecticut. Elizabeth Johnston, the foundation’s marketing director, highlighted the series’ broader goals: “Folks have run with us in Middletown, Simsbury, and now Old Wethersfield to complete the third event in the series.”
In addition to promoting fitness, the Sunday race served charitable purposes. The foundation collected non‑perishable food donations for the Hartford Public High School food pantry and for Ava’s Way, an organization supporting individuals with neuro‑developmental disorders. The dual focus on health and community service underscores the foundation’s mission to make a lasting impact beyond the finish line.
Inspiring others to pursue healthier lives
Berger hopes his story will encourage others who feel limited by health challenges. “If you feel you can’t do it, you absolutely can,” he said, urging fellow participants and community members to consider running as a pathway to better health.
The event also highlighted the growing interest in running and fitness across Connecticut. Local volunteers, families, and businesses gathered to support the runners, creating a festive atmosphere that blended athletic competition with charitable giving.
Looking ahead
Berger plans to continue his running journey and remain active in future Hartford Marathon Foundation events. The foundation, meanwhile, will keep promoting its All the Way series, encouraging more Connecticut residents to experience the physical and communal benefits of running.
For those interested in joining future races or supporting the foundation’s charitable initiatives, information is available on the Hartford Marathon Foundation’s website.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
