Baypath’s 2025 Boston Marathon Runner: Meet Sophie Goodnough

With the start of the historic Boston Marathon just down the road from Baypath, our Development Coordinator, Katy Kesselman, set out to learn how Hopkinton native and official 2025 Baypath marathon runner Sophie Goodnough is staying motivated as she raises funds to support the animals we serve. Read on to meet this incredible local humane hero and support her extraordinary efforts!

Katy: The Boston Marathon is iconic. What inspired you to run in honor of Baypath?

Sophie: I moved to Hopkinton in 2010 and vividly remember the inspiring Kenyan runners visiting Elmwood Elementary School. Each year, I watched my town excitedly prepare for the marathon, and witnessing such a historic race so close to the start line inspired me to one day run it myself. Being able to run for Baypath, a shelter that is deeply rooted in our community and close to my heart, is truly special.

Katy: Marathon training and fundraising are known to be extremely challenging. How have they been going for you?

Sophie: Neither is easy, but fundraising is very motivating for training. It’s rewarding to know that people are supporting not just my runs, but also my efforts to raise money for the shelter. In a way, it’s a support system I never knew I needed!

Katy: Tell us more about your connection to Baypath.

Sophie: Baypath is a beloved shelter here in Hopkinton, known for the unmatched level of care they provide. Growing up, I’d host bake sales to raise money for the animals, and now as an adult, many of my friends have adopted their pets from Baypath. Although I don’t have a dog of my own yet, Baypath will be the first place I go when I’m ready to adopt. It’s a full-circle moment to once again be raising money for the shelter I love.

Katy: If you could share some important lessons you’ve learned during this experience, what would they be?

Sophie:

1. Training and fundraising go hand in hand.
2. Some goals may seem daunting, but they are absolutely achievable through perseverance.
3. Marathon training requires significant time and sacrifices—there are a lot of Band-Aids involved!
4. The sacrifices are all worth it in the end, knowing that dedication and discipline lead to accomplishing something great.

Katy: What are your hopes for the big day on April 21st?

Sophie: My hopes are to raise as much money as possible for Baypath and to celebrate by crossing the finish line! Ultimately, I hope my run will contribute to Baypath’s goal of building a new facility to care for even more animals in the future.