A set of identical twins who are both members of the NYPD are hoping to scorch the FDNY during the friendly competition between the Finest and Bravest at the New York City Marathon on Sunday.
Sgts. Denise Bellotti and Jessica Pabon-Bellotti, 43, are set to line up side-by-side for the fourth time — but they insist the only competition is with the Fire Department in the annual Mayor’s Cup.
“We just want to represent the NYPD in a positive light,” Jessica, a sergeant with the Bronx Evidence Collection Team, said. “Even though you feel like everyone is cheering for you, you’re a small part of something bigger.”
“The New York City marathon is the best in the world,” added Denise, a sergeant with the 68th Precinct. “The crowds carry you along. The music, the people, the support is all great.”
The fire department has dominated the Mayor's Cup, which is awarded to the team of runners from the FDNY or NYPD that gets 10 members across the marathon's finish line first, over the years, with firefighters winning 12 straight races between 2002 and 2014.
The sisters said it’s time to blaze their own trail.
“It’s been going on for 30 years,” Jessica said. “The FDNY has won 20 of those 30 competitions. We won two years ago, but last year they won. We’re trying to get our Mayor’s Cup back.”
Denise and Jessica said they usually run at about the same pace and offer each other encouragement during the difficult stretches across the Queensboro Bridge and up First Avenue.
“When she’s at her best, I’ll usually be there too,” Denise said.
“When she’s faster and she has to leave me, I totally understand,” added Jessica. “Sometimes it’s my race, sometimes it’s hers.”
Regardless of their times or how the NYPD fares against the FDNY, Jessica said the real thrill is feeling the energy of the crowd.
“So many people run for different causes,” she said. “So many people of different shapes, different sizes from different parts of the world are coming together in New York City. It’s one-big block party.”
