MarathonFoto, the leading race photography company with over four decades years of experience, is proud to announce its partnership with the NJ Run4Hope Half Marathon. This collaboration brings together MarathonFoto’s expertise in capturing memorable race moments with NJ Run4Hope’s mission to make a meaningful impact in the fight against Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).
DMD is a fatal, genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration. It primarily affects boys, most of whom are wheelchair-bound by age 12. Duchenne affects 300,000 boys worldwide, including 20,000 children in the United States alone. These children are robbed of their childhood as they can’t run and play. The simplest of movements is painful. Many don’t survive past their mid-twenties.
The NJ Run4Hope Half Marathon, organized by JAR of Hope, is New Jersey’s premier half marathon dedicated to raising awareness and funds for DMD research. DMD is a devastating genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle degeneration, primarily affecting boys. Most children with DMD are wheelchair-bound by age 12, and many do not survive past their mid-twenties.
It was September 13, 2013, when Jim and Karen Raffone received the news that no parent should ever get—they were told that their child was sick. On that day, their now 14-year-old son, Jamesy, was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: a rare mutation of the dystrophin gene that results in severe muscle degeneration.
The Raffones then sought a number of professional opinions, only to be given the same heartbreaking prognosis from each doctor: “go home and love your son—there is nothing we can do.” Unsatisfied with accepting their child’s death sentence, Jim and Karen set out to reverse the seemingly insurmountable odds against them—this is when JAR of Hope was born.
Spearheaded by Jim Raffone, JAR of Hope is an organization that gives Jamesy and thousands of boys just like him the chance to beat a disease that currently has no cure. Through various funding and awareness campaigns, JAR of Hope remains steadfast in its mission to knock out a disease that has, until now, remained undefeated.
Through this partnership, MarathonFoto will provide world-class photography services to capture the spirit and determination of runners participating in the 13.1-mile course from All American Ford in Old Bridge to iPlay America in Freehold, New Jersey. These images will not only serve as lasting memories for participants but also help support for the critical cause.
MarathonFoto’s President, Brad Kroll, stated, “We are honored to partner with NJ Run4Hope and contribute to their mission of finding a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Our team is committed to capturing the passion and dedication of every runner, helping to spread awareness and inspire support for this crucial cause.”
“We are absolutely delighted to partner with MarathonFoto for the NJ Run4Hope Half Marathon,” said Jim Raffone, NJ Run4Hope Race Director. “This collaboration is a significant step forward in enhancing the experience for all our participants. MarathonFoto’s dedication to capturing the spirit of our event aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire hope and support those affected by cancer and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. We look forward to seeing the smiles and triumphs of our runners beautifully documented and shared.”
Runners, supporters, and the community are encouraged to participate in this meaningful event. Every mile run and every dollar raised brings us closer to turning the dream of finding a cure into reality. Together, MarathonFoto and NJ Run4Hope are determined to make a lasting impact in the lives of those affected by DMD.
About MarathonFoto:
MarathonFoto, for more than 45 years, has had a mission that goes beyond capturing mere images. Dedicated to inspiring and celebrating athletes, MarathonFoto transforms moments into memories. As pioneers in their field, their lens doesn’t just freeze the action; it encapsulates the spirit, determination, and triumph of every participant. Through their artistry, MarathonFoto ensures that each athlete’s journey is not just documented but celebrated, creating a visual testament to the passion and perseverance that define the world of sports and mass participation events. MarathonFoto is a division of Infront Sports & Media AG. Website: https://www.marathonfoto.com
About Run4Hope Half Marathon:
The NJ Run4Hope Half Marathon is New Jersey’s premier half marathon dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the fight against Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Set to take place on October 6, 2024, this unique event will shut down historic Route 9 for the first time, allowing runners to traverse a 13.1-mile course from All American Ford in Old Bridge to iPlay America in Freehold. The race not only offers participants a chance to run through picturesque landscapes and parts of New Jersey history but also serves as a powerful fundraising platform for JAR of Hope, an organization committed to finding a cure for DMD and supporting affected families. With its scenic route and noble cause, the NJ Run4Hope Half Marathon unites communities in a collective effort to bring hope to those facing this devastating disease.
