Joel Kaufman, a 66-year-old retired math teacher from Queens, achieved a unique distinction at the 2022 TCS New York City Marathon by being the official last finisher. With a time of 8 hours, 43 minutes, and 34 seconds, he embraced this title, noting that it’s a lasting honor over merely being number 57,000. Kaufman has walked the marathon for the past decade, raising funds for those battling blood cancers. This year, he will start two hours earlier, at 9:10 am, alongside three-hour marathoners, excited to showcase his cause.
Kaufman dons a cape that highlights leukemia patients and sports various accessories, including an American flag headband and a dog tag advocating for the return of Israeli hostages. His journey began in 2015 after a childhood friend’s battle with leukemia. With a consistent training routine, Kaufman aims for stability over speed, often engaging with fellow participants to keep spirits high along the course.
This year, he joins Team Inspire, a group representing compelling marathon stories. Kaufman looks forward to continuing his marathon journey, stating, ‘There’s no reason for me to stop; I’m just warming up.’