Elizabeth Hyde-Daddio to Run Her First Half Marathon

Elizabeth Hyde-Daddio of Islip Terrace is running her first half marathon Oct. 29 at the Suffolk Marathon.

The third annual Catholic Health Services Suffolk Marathon, Half Marathon, 5k run/walk and newly added four-member marathon relay will start and finish in the village of Patchogue. The event raises funds for Suffolk County veterans. More than $300,000 has already been contributed from the two previous races.

“I am running the half marathon for the first time. I started running as an overweight teenager with asthma as a way to improve my health and it carried through adulthood. I have since lost 40 lbs and became a registered dietitian. I never thought I could compete in any kind of sport because I was never athletic growing up. I was nervous but entered my first 5k five years ago. I found the experience inspiring and I soon began entering more races and my time just kept improving!

“This will be the longest distance I have ever raced but I'm excited to meet the challenge. I was afraid when I first starting racing but once I just did it, I truly felt the runner's high. I hope to inspire others to overcome fear in order to achieve goals. Most importantly, I especially hope to instill that into my 2 year old daughter Emily. Good Luck to everyone!”

The race is accompanied by the FreedomFest: Taste of Long Island festival that features local foods, wines and craft beers, as well as music and other entertainment.

For more information and to register, see suffolkmarathon.com