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The New York City Marathon has its own personal star of the show. And it is not someone who’s running the marathon, but in fact, a 91-year-old volunteer. Barbara Rubenstein was 60 years old when she first decided to become a volunteer for the city marathon.

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Since then, she has shown up with the same dedication every year for the event. Not only that, but she also volunteers for multiple marathons that happen regularly in the city. This year too, 91-year-old Barbara has come out once again to volunteer in the marathon.

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New York City Marathon star volunteer

Barbara Rubenstein has revealed she herself is not much of a runner. But she sure loves these marathons much more than the actual runners. The thrill of standing at the finish line, giving high fives, and being in that moment is really the ultimate feeling for her.

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It all began when she saw a poster for volunteers by her apartment building and decided to sign up for it.

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?I thought, gee, that?s a good way to get involved in something that?s becoming such a big New York City event,? Rubenstein told?Runner?s World.

She enjoyed the first marathon more than she thought she would. Barbara found that a race happens every week. Initially, she wasn’t as enthusiastic about it. But with time, the excitement of being present at the finished line grew strong.

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?Every weekend they have a race, I?m out [there],? she said. ?I guess it?s keeping me going, keeping me young.? The marathons were really the highlight of her week.

Slowly, she became a known name in the running fraternity. Frequent runners know her as somewhat of a celebrity volunteer. Many people often take pictures with her as well.

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91-year-old volunteer awarded with Hall of Fame seat

The New York Road Runners inducted Barbara Rubenstein into their Hall of Fame along with 11 other long-time volunteers. These volunteers have more than 40 years of experience and their volunteering hours go up to 2500 and more.

?I can?t believe that I?m actually being recognized for something I love doing.? Rubenstein has been recognized as the oldest volunteer in the community.

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Barbara was very disappointed to miss the races during the pandemic. However, now that they are back, she can’t wait to be at the finishing line this fall.

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Written by

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Richa Goswami

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Richa Goswami is a US Sports writer at EssentiallySports. As an adherent learner, she uses her journalistic persona to navigate through new skills. Richa has completed her schooling at Don Bosco.

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Melroy Fernandes

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