Wilton teen Ronan Conway isn’t just talking the talk when it comes to giving back to a town organization that he said has made a difference in his life. In fact, he isn’t just walking the walk either — he’s running the run. Conway plans to run a marathon to raise money for Trackside Teen Center.
The Wilton High School junior discovered running when he became involved with Trackside as a middle school student.
“In middle school, I participated in many Trackside clubs and activities, including Trackside’s Running Club, which inspired me to start running in high school. I have run on the WHS cross country team and track team every year and have qualified for state competitions in both sports. Outside of school programs, I have also run two organized half-marathons so far,” Conway explained.
Now, Conway is sharing his love of running with other Wilton students as a Trackside leader, mentoring younger kids by co-leading the same Trackside Running Club that made him such an avid runner.
To give back and help support Trackside’s mission, Conway has set his sights on running his first marathon as a fundraiser, with 100% of donations he raises benefiting the running club and other Trackside clubs. “I [hope people] can support this sport I love and a place where kids find things they love,” he said.
He has become eligible to run some full marathons now that he is 16 years old, and he’ll be running his first race, the Pocantico Hills Marathon in Sleepy Hollow, NY, on Saturday, Nov. 9. Conway is hoping to raise between $4,000-$5,000 by Nov 9.
Trackside leadership has implemented afterschool clubs that are designed, created, and led by high school students. They said this organizational structure allows older teens to cultivate leadership skills while simultaneously offering enriching mentorship experiences to younger middle school students.
“This unique environment fosters a culture of belonging, allowing kids to grow and explore their interests,” Trackside Executive Director Lori Fields said. “We feel fortunate to witness the magic each day as they develop their passions and evolve into extraordinary individuals. Ronan is just one example of the many remarkable teens we serve and we are constantly inspired the kids who walk through our doors.”
Fields said Trackside’s adult staff and board members are humbled that Conway chose Trackside for his fundraising goals. “We are incredibly grateful for his generosity.”
Donations can be made online through the Trackside website.