HMF Runner Spotlight | Tom Zukowski

Tom Zukowski

Tomorrow is race day and today we are spotlighting WFSB photographer, Tom Zukowski! Zukowski will be running his 47th Marathon — yes, you read that right! 47th!

Zukowski has been running marathons for over two decades. But tomorrow’s race is going to be extra special for him. It marks 22 years to the date since he ran it for the first time in Hartford. And this time he’s running it for Denise.

“I am honored to run for The Denise D'Ascenzo Foundation in her memory,” he says. “Denise was one of my longest and closest friends for nearly 30 years.” The two worked together on several stories, memories of which he treasures. They were a great pair. Denise would turn to him for “that ‘special touch’ she was looking for on a project.” And they always had a lot of fun.

Outside of work, Denise was always a big supporter of Zukowski’s marathon feats -- and feasts! “Denise was such an advocate for health, fitness, and wellness,” and she was deeply moved by the human spirit -- of which finishing a marathon is a beautiful example. But she also loved hearing about Zukowski’s post-marathon refuel!

“Denise always marveled at how much food I consumed [after the marathon],” he says. “It became a tradition for me to send her a picture and list all of the post-race treats.” We can just see her smiling and giggling with delight looking at Zukowski’s assortment of post-race goodies!

We are honored to have Zukowski running for our team. His fundraising efforts have been nothing short of extraordinary. He’s raised $3,500 for the Foundation and is currently sitting as the #5 fundraiser out of everyone fundraising in the Hartford Marathon.

Zukowski says he has “something special planned” for the finish line. “I can’t wait to turn that corner and run under the Arch for Denise. I love her and miss her dearly every day.” We can’t wait to see what he has in store.