She may be known for blazing through hurdles at record-breaking speed, but in New York City, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone slowed down for something far more meaningful. Fans expecting another athletic spectacle found themselves watching a story of impact instead. It was one that unfolded quietly amid the energy of the 2025 TCS NYC Marathon weekend. And this time, her mission went beyond the medals. 

As part of a special initiative by New York Road Runners and New Balance, McLaughlin-Levrone spent the weekend uplifting young runners during the TCS New York City Marathon festivities. She joined local children in a shoe distribution event that provided new running shoes and inspiration for the next generation. The Olympian took to Instagram and shared a few visuals from the event.

In the caption, she wrote, “New York I ❤️ U. What a wonderful week full of laughs, incredible people, and inspiring moments! Thank you [New Balance] for having me be a part of this years [NYC Marathon]!! It was such a blast. 🤗 Until next time 🫶🏽.” 

For an athlete who holds the women’s 400m hurdles world record at 50.65 seconds and owns multiple Olympic and World Championship titles, this was a rare moment of stillness and purpose. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone led the children through a series of fitness activities. Her presence turned what could have been a simple brand event into a message of hope and community empowerment. And that strengthened her stance as the face of New Balance, the official athletic footwear and apparel sponsor of NYRR and the TCS NYC Marathon. 

That drive to connect with the next generation is what makes Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s actions in New York even more meaningful. Her message of discipline, humility, and purpose isn’t confined to the track. And her stance at the 2025 NYC Marathon was simply a continuation of her mission to inspire the younger generation. 

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone opens up about motivating the new generation

Earlier in September 2025, McLaughlin-Levrone appeared in an interview with Olympics.com. Therein, she acknowledged her feelings of being able to inspire the younger generation to strive for greatness. She confessed, “It’s really an honor to have young athletes want to look up to me in any way, shape, or form. I definitely take that as a responsibility to represent well so that they are looking at someone that they can want to model. [Someone] who’s going to do things correctly and in a humble and honorable way. It’s just really special.”

Well, the Olympian’s story is nothing short of a motivational one. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone was only 16 years old when she ran her first Olympic race. The surrounding buzz refused to die down as the teenager made it to the semifinals. Later on, she claimed her first international medal in the 400m hurdles at the 2019 Doha World Championships. And now, she has become the second-fastest woman in history in the 400m flats, clocking in at 47.78s at the 2025 Tokyo World Championships. Needless to say, her 16-year-old self would be pretty proud of her. 

McLaughlin-Levrone’s journey proves that true greatness lies not only in shattering world records but in shaping the world around you. From Olympic tracks to community events, she continues to redefine what leadership in sport looks like. And as she empowers others to begin their own races, her legacy keeps running stronger than ever.