Interview with Marathon Runners Andrew and Sansriti
Conducted and Written by Ginny Sanborn
Published November 4th, 2025
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andrew witner
andrew witner
What was the most difficult about your training?
“Finding time to run”
How did it feel at the start line? Nerves or excitement?
“I love the race, I hate the start line. I was there 3 hours before, so hypothetically, someone could run a marathon in the time we were waiting. I watched TV and stretched. The worst part is you don’t get service.”
What were your top 3 highlights of the marathon in general?
“For training, I like any week I go over 50 miles. In the race itself, I love the Bronx, it's about a mile, and the energy is so fun. Also, it was really cool that so many WESS people were out, which was nice, and I saw my kids, which was great.”
At what points (during training or the race) were the ones where you struggled the most?
“I hate tapering. Hate is a strong word. I dislike tapering. When you stop running to scale back mileage, you get anxious and stir-crazy.”
How did the finish line feel?
It's fun. It's really fun.”
Will you run it again?
“Yes. I have to get to 15, and then I’m done. This was my 13th New York and my 20th marathon. Once you get 15, you get automatic entry for the rest of your life and a tent to hang out in, very exclusive.”
Andrew at mile 23. Photo credit Yosif Zhurbin
Sansriti tripathi
Sansriti tripathi
What was the most difficult about your training?
“Sunday long runs, you want to chill on the weekends, and having to get up and run 20 miles was not fun.”
How did it feel at the start line? Nerves or excitement?
“Excitement, the start is very emotional, you are thinking of all the time you put in, feeding off energy, I didn't know what to expect since it was my first marathon.”
What were your top 3 highlights of the marathon in general?
“In the race itself, the first 18 miles, the energy in the crowds and the support was incredible. It honestly just feels nice to work towards a goal like this. I felt very proud of myself for going out for runs on days I really didn't want to.”
At what points (during training or the race) were the ones where you struggled the most?
“Most of mile 19, basically miles 20 through 24, were pain like I've never known before. There were many times I tried to long run and failed. Also, just having school starting while you’re supposed to be at peak training. “
How did the finish line feel?
“Victorious. What no one tells you is you have to keep walking after the finish line for a few blocks, and it's just a zombie parade since everyone is dead exhausted.”
Will you run it again?
“I would love to run another marathon. I can’t run the New York one next year, but I’ll definitely run another, yeah.”
Both interviews have been slightly edited for clarity
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