Marathon Team Spotlight: Ayla Kanow

Beyond Type Run, a program of Beyond Type 1, brings together an inspiring team of people impacted by diabetes—those living with type 1 diabetes (T1D), type 2 diabetes (T2D) and their caregivers. Since 2017, this program has brought more than 200 runners with T1D to the TCS New York City Marathon. In 2023, Beyond Type Run opened up the team to all people with diabetes and their caregivers.

This year we’ll be cheering on this 2023 team in New York City on November 5, 2023. Get to know 2023 marathon team member, Ayla Kanow, and how she’s getting ready for the race!

Ayla Kanow

• Diagnosed 2013 with T1D
• Enjoys skiing, climbing and hiking

What inspired you to run this year? 

The newly diagnosed 9 year old version of myself and all of the diabetic youth athletes I have met throughout the years at diabetes camp!

Who will be joining you the day of the race?

My mom, dad, sister and my best friend from high school!

Prepping for race day

What is your go to running snack?

Shot locks, Huma gels and coconut chocolate Luna bars

How do you prepare for long runs?

Hydration and temp basils!

What has been the hardest part of your training so far?

Running through exhaustion while working at a diabetes camp.

Advice to start running

Ayla’s advice for other people impacted by diabetes who want to start running is:

Do it! Diabetes is your superpower. Adding running to your life is just another piece to the lifelong puzzle of diabetes.

Get to know the rest of the 2023 Beyond Type Run marathon and learn more about the program here. Want to be on the team like Ayla? Stay tuned! The 2024 team application will open in April of 2024.