Marathon Team Spotlight: Caroline Smith
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, Caroline Smith, and how she’s getting ready for the race!
Caroline Smith
- Caregiver to daughter with T1D
- Daughter ran with Beyond Type Run in 2021
What inspired you to run this year?
My daughter, Jackie, was diagnosed with type 1diabetes at the age of 25. She ran with Beyond Type 1 in 2021, but is now expecting her first child, so I am running in her place to fundraise and raise awareness of type 1 diabetes.
Who will be joining you the day of the race?
My second daughter, Jessica, is also running the NYC marathon. Unfortunately, Jackie won’t be able to make it with a new born.
Prepping for race day
What is your go to running snack?
Jelly Belly Sport Beans
How do you prepare for long runs?
I eat 3 to 4 pieces of healthy toast with nut butter and Manuka honey—and of course, coffee!
What has been the hardest part of your training so far?
I love running. I have run 240 miles thus far but my foot started to hurt so I had to take last week off. Taking the week off has been the hardest part of my training.
Advice to start running
Caroline’s advice for other people impacted by diabetes who want to start running is:
Put one foot in front of the other and just go. If I can do it, anyone can!
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 Caroline? Stay tuned! The 2024 team application will open in April of 2024.
