Sun Nov 02 13:40:00 UTC 2025: Shark Attack Survivor to Run NYC Marathon, Two Years After Losing Leg
NEW YORK – Ali Truwit, 25, is set to participate in the TCS New York City Marathon on November 2nd, a remarkable feat of resilience less than three years after a shark attack cost her her left foot and part of her leg. In May 2023, while on vacation in Turks and Caicos celebrating her upcoming graduation from Yale and a new job at McKinsey, Truwit was snorkeling when a shark attacked. On her 23rd birthday, she underwent surgery to amputate her leg below the knee.
After the attack, one of the first responders reassured Truwit that she would run another marathon, a promise that is now coming to fruition. Truwit, who had run the Copenhagen Marathon just days before the attack, credits her determination and the support of her friend and fellow Yale swimmer, Sophie Pilkinton, who helped save her life.
Following the attack, Truwit faced a challenging journey of physical and emotional recovery. With prosthetics costing an exorbitant amount, she founded Stronger Than You Think, a nonprofit focused on promoting water safety, access to prosthetics and the Para movement. Truwit has since helped donate 11 prosthetic legs to women and girls.
On Sunday, Truwit will run alongside 11 family members and friends, including Pilkinton, as she aims to raise $100,000 for Stronger Than You Think. Having already competed in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, where she set two American records and earned silver medals, Truwit also plans to make a run for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.
First Piper 