During the bustling New York City Marathon, which saw over 59,000 runners cross the finish line, Ariana Grande sparked joy when she penned a handwritten note of encouragement for a tired runner named Ellie.
- Ariana Grande wrote an encouraging note while watching the marathon.
- The note was delivered to marathon finisher Ellie, who was deeply moved.
- Ellie shared how music and support helped her through the race.
What happened
On November 1st, amidst the excitement of the New York City Marathon, Ariana Grande and her boyfriend Ricky Alvarez cheered from the sidelines. Content creator Ella Schweiger, known for distributing kind notes to runners through her project Ella’s Envelope, invited Grande to write a message. Without hesitation, Grande contributed a brief but heartfelt note saying, "You did it!" accompanied by hand-drawn hearts and her signature "Ari + Ricky."
Later, as runners crossed the finish line, Schweiger handed out the notes to exhausted participants. Marathon finisher Ellie, wrapped in a post-race blanket, picked Grande’s note and was overwhelmed to learn it was from the pop star. She shared that Ariana Grande’s music had helped her through a tough stretch near the end of the race, making the note all the more meaningful.
Why it feels good
This moment resonates because it highlights the power of kindness from unexpected sources. A major celebrity taking time to encourage everyday people reminds us that simple acts can inspire and uplift. For runners enduring physical and mental challenges, even a short message can provide a boost to keep going.
Ellie’s response shows how deeply the gesture connected with her effort and emotions during the marathon. The fact that she was listening to Grande’s music at a critical moment made the surprise feel personal and encouraging, reinforcing the notion that community support, even from afar, can have a big impact.
What to enjoy or watch next
Ellie’s story is a wonderful example of how sporting events foster community and compassion. For those interested in spreading kindness yourself, projects like Ella’s Envelope continue to make waves by encouraging spectators to write uplifting notes for marathon runners or others in need of encouragement.
Fans of Ariana Grande and running enthusiasts alike might find inspiration in revisiting Grande’s music, which has clearly motivated many, including Ellie. Watching race highlights or personal stories from marathons can also remind us of the joy and shared human spirit found in perseverance and celebration.