Shark Attack Survivor Ali Truwit to Run NYC Marathon After Losing Leg

Ali Truwit will run the TCS New York City Marathon this November. The Yale graduate lost her left leg in a shark attack just two years ago. Her incredible story of recovery is now inspiring thousands. According to USA Today, she will run the 26.2-mile race with a prosthetic leg.

The attack occurred while she was snorkeling in Turks and Caicos. She was celebrating her college graduation at the time. Now, she is turning her personal tragedy into a powerful mission for others.

The Life-Altering Attack and Immediate Aftermath

Truwit was a Division I athlete with a bright future ahead. She had just run the Copenhagen Marathon ten days prior. A job at the consulting firm McKinsey was waiting for her.

The shark bit off part of her left leg while she was with a friend. She and fellow Yale swimmer Sophie Pilkinton swam 75 yards to their boat. Pilkinton then applied a life-saving tourniquet during the frantic journey to shore.

Doctors at a Miami trauma center performed two surgeries. They ultimately amputated her leg below the knee. Her life was forever changed in an instant.

A Grueling Journey Back to Running

Learning to use a prosthetic limb was her first major challenge. Simple tasks like walking and swimming required complete relearning. Her athletic background provided a foundation of mental toughness for the long road ahead.

She began training again in mid-2024. She started cautiously on treadmills before moving outdoors. Mastering a running-specific “blade” prosthetic was difficult and required constant balance adjustments.

Turning Trauma into Triumph and Advocacy

Truwit founded the nonprofit Stronger Than You Think during her recovery. The organization provides prosthetic limbs to women and girls who cannot afford them. It also promotes water safety and supports Paralympic sports.

She will not be running the NYC Marathon alone. Eleven family members and friends will join her, including Sophie Pilkinton. She is also using the race to raise $100,000 for her foundation.

Her goal extends far beyond this single race. Truwit has set her sights on qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. Her story is a powerful testament to human resilience.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Ali Truwit?

Ali Truwit is a 25-year-old Yale University graduate and a former Division I swimmer. She lost her left leg below the knee in a shark attack in 2023.

When is the 2025 NYC Marathon?

The TCS New York City Marathon is scheduled for November 2, 2025. This is the race where Ali Truwit will make her comeback.

What is the Stronger Than You Think nonprofit?

It is a foundation started by Truwit that provides prosthetic limbs to women and girls. The organization has donated 11 prosthetic devices so far and also advocates for water safety.

How did her friend help during the shark attack?

Her friend and fellow swimmer, Sophie Pilkinton, applied a critical tourniquet to the injured leg. This action is credited with saving Truwit’s life before she could reach advanced medical care.

What are Ali Truwit’s future athletic goals?

After completing the NYC Marathon, she aims to qualify for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. Her journey in competitive sports is far from over.