Houston attorney Andrea Sager turned the New York City Marathon into a light‑hearted dating experiment on Nov. 1. The 35‑year‑old single mother ran the 26.2‑mile race in a hot‑pink tank top that read, “Andrea, 35, Single. Great Credit. Bad Judgement,” with a playful invitation on the back: “Looking for a man with more endurance than my ex.”
Why she did it
Sager, who runs a legal‑tech company and raises two children—son Thomas, 9, and daughter Allie, 7—said she grew tired of the usual online dating routine. “I’m all business all the time, so putting a joke on my shirt felt like a fun way to meet someone,” she told Today.com. She hoped the marathon’s massive audience would give her a chance to “switch to having more fun” in her personal life.
Reactions on the course
Runners and spectators responded with laughter and encouragement. “People just loved it. They were cracking up,” Sager recalled. “When you’re running 26 miles, it’s rare that you get a laugh.” The shirt became a conversation starter, with many participants stopping to ask about the cheeky message.
Dating flood
After the race, Sager’s Instagram direct messages filled with “hundreds, if not thousands,” of men ranging from their 20s to their 70s. She said age is not a barrier: “I’m not ruling anyone out.” Her ideal partner, she explained, would be willing to join her at her children’s softball, baseball and volleyball games and help “carry my wagon”—a literal reference to the equipment she brings to every sports event.
What she’s looking for
Sager emphasized emotional intelligence as the most important trait, noting that many women find it lacking in today’s dating pool. She also hopes for a man who is athletic, financially responsible, and comfortable with a successful, independent woman. “I think that’s the one thing that’s really lacking with most men these days,” she said.
Turning the moment into a series
Inspired by the positive response, Sager announced a new video series titled “Running from Dating Apps.” The clips will parody the idea of hitting the pavement to meet a partner while encouraging other women to stay active. “A lot of comments have been from women who are like, ‘Well, fine, I guess I’ll start running if that’s what it takes to find a man,’” she said.
Community perspective
While the story is light‑hearted, it underscores a broader theme of single parents seeking balance between family responsibilities and personal fulfillment. Sager’s approach reflects a growing trend of creative, family‑friendly ways to re‑enter the dating world without compromising parental duties.
As the marathon season continues, Sager hopes her playful stunt will inspire other parents to find joy in everyday activities and perhaps, just perhaps, meet someone who appreciates the whole family package.
Original reporting: Richardson, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
