Long Island Moms Aim for World Championship Glory
Walking a mile in her shoes isn’t easy.
Two dynamic mothers from Long Island, who have collectively claimed nearly 50 national race walking titles and participated in the Olympics twice, are setting their sights on the World Championships in Tokyo this month.
“I just want to race and have fun,” said Maria Mishta Coffey, 39, who works as a physician assistant in Suffolk County.
The Lake Grove resident, married to a teacher at Sachem East High School, balances her career with motherhood, raising two children: a sports-loving 6-year-old, Liliana, and a 1-year-old, Daniel. She previously competed in the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics.
Maria joined Northwell South Shore University Hospital’s staff about four years ago. “There shouldn’t be a choice. You should be able to pursue both passions,” she asserted, referring to her commitments in medicine and athletics.
When emergencies arise, her colleagues benefit from her impressive speed. “She’s cheerful and motivated, taking on a challenging role in the hospital,” noted Irene Maysich, president of South Shore.
Maria, who graduated as valedictorian from Long Island University in 2008 and later earned a PhD in Biomedical Sciences, recalls juggling her studies and training, even walking through Central Park during her graduate studies at Mount Sinai.
For her, showing that a mother can excel in multiple roles fuels her passion, and she hopes to inspire younger generations.
“It wasn’t easy, but the experience was invaluable in continuing to pursue what I love,” she reflected. “I think it’s crucial not to lose your sense of self.”
Michta-Coffey has faced obstacles before; she qualified for the London Games with just seconds to spare, making a remarkable comeback. This year, however, she battled a right Achilles injury, saying she couldn’t even wear regular shoes at times.
Despite these challenges, she remains focused on the upcoming 35K event in Japan, with her hospital colleagues cheering her on.
As she nears 40, Michta-Coffey acknowledges that this competition feels different, particularly as she trains the next generation of race walkers.
Having raced at Sachem East High School and later at Marist University, she is now mentoring Lauren Harris, who aims for the 2028 Olympics. “My husband was her coach, and I took on a mentoring role,” she explained, detailing how their paths crossed as they trained together.
Maria’s journey has been transformative. “If that had ended in 2012, I can’t imagine where I’d be,” she admitted. “I’m undeniably passionate about this; the thrill and rush are exhilarating.”
