Rhian Ramos has dismissed accusations that she and her boyfriend, Sam Verzosa, “cheated” during the 2024 New York City Marathon. Ramos addressed the issue head-on, sharing proof that the absence of timing records at certain markers was due to circumstances beyond their control.
Explanation from Organizers
Ramos took to Instagram on November 13 to share an email from the marathon organizer, New York Road Runners, explaining the missing data.
“Rhian, it looks like both you and Samuel fell behind the sweep, and the timing points at 30km, 20 miles, and 35km were removed from the course as the streets reopened before you passed through. In Central Park, we can stay open longer, so you were picked up again at 40km. You are both still listed as official finishers.”
For Charity, Not Competition
Ramos clarified that she and Verzosa participated to raise funds for Smile Train, a charity that provides cleft treatment and surgeries for children.
“We didn’t do it to compete with anyone’s times. We just had to make sure we could finish without passing out or getting injured,” she said.
She emphasized that their efforts helped raise money for essential medical procedures and underscored their goal was charitable, not competitive.
Condemning False Accusations
Ramos expressed frustration over the spread of false claims, calling out those who failed to verify facts before making allegations.
“It’s so easy to send an email, verify facts, and get your story straight before trying to ruin someone’s name for a little attention,” she wrote.
The actress also urged the public and the media to practice responsibility, highlighting the harm caused by fake news.
“Even if ‘chismis is fun,’ the truth can be fun too,” she added.
Positive Takeaway
Despite the controversy, Ramos remains proud of her participation in the marathon, calling it “one of the best things” she’s ever done. She encouraged others to pursue challenges, saying, “If we could do this, you can do anything!”
Through her statement, Ramos reiterated her commitment to charity and her resilience in the face of baseless criticism.