Your Complete Guide to the NYC Marathon

History

The NYC Marathon dates back to 1970, where it started as a series of loops through Central Park with just 127 runners, only 55 of whom finished. Today, the marathon has evolved into a massive event with over 50,000 participants, covering a 26.2-mile course that begins in Staten Island and ends in Central Park, Manhattan. The race’s transformation from humble beginnings to a global spectacle reflects its growing importance in the world of long-distance running.

Safety and Numbers

Safety is always a top priority for the race organizers, NYRR (New York Road Runners). In collaboration with the NYPD, city, and federal agencies ensure a secure race environment. On race day, expect to see heavy weapons teams, emergency service units, critical response command, and counter-terrorism officers with advanced technology such as radiation detection devices. No drones are allowed anywhere near the course, adding to the heightened security presence.

Elite Field: Olympians and Top Athletes

This year’s elite field is stacked with world-class athletes and Olympians. Just to name a few of the many key names to watch: Tamirat Tola, the world marathon champion from Ethiopia, Gabriel Geay, a top marathoner from Tanzania, and Conner Mantz, Clayton Young, and Dakotah Lindwurm, all Olympians representing the USA. Other major names to keep an eye on include Des Linden, a Boston Marathon champion, Hellen Obiri, a two-time Olympic medalist from Kenya, and two-time world marathon champion Edna Kiplagat. In the wheelchair division, reigning Paralympic champion Marcel Hug is expected to make a strong showing. These athletes will compete for a share of the substantial prize purse, making this year’s race one of the most competitive in recent memory.

Prize Money

The NYC Marathon offers significant prize money across multiple categories. For the wheelchair division, the 1st place male and female winners will receive $35,000, with $25,000 for 2nd place and $15,000 for 3rd place. In the runner division, the 1st place male and female finishers will each win $100,000, with $60,000 for 2nd place and $40,000 for 3rd place. For the USA Division, the top American male and female runners will receive $20,000 for 1st place, $15,000 for 2nd place, and $10,000 for 3rd place.

There is also prize money for NYRR individual and team competitions, including Masters Division athletes. These categories add to the excitement of the event and reward top performers from a range of backgrounds and age groups.

Expo and Race Week Events

Leading up to the race, the TCS NYC Marathon Expo at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center is a must-visit for all participants. Sponsored by New Balance, the expo runs from Thursday, October 31 to Saturday, November 2, with hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. The expo offers runners a chance to pick up race bibs, explore vendor booths, and enjoy race-week excitement.

Race Week Events include Kids' Races in Central Park on Sunday, October 27, the Blue Line Painting Ceremony on Wednesday, October 30, and the Opening Ceremony on Friday, November 1. On Saturday, November 2, the Abbott Dash to the Finish Line 5K and USATF 5K Championships will take place at 8:30 a.m., offering participants another chance to test their speed on a shorter course before marathon day. For additional festivities, unofficial events like meetups and shakeout runs are held all week by brands and local running communities.

Bag Check and Starting Logistics

Remember, there is no bag check at the starting line. Runners have the option to pre-check their bags at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park on Friday, November 1, and Saturday, November 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Getting to the starting line requires careful planning. Transportation options include the Staten Island Ferry from the Whitehall Terminal, buses from midtown Manhattan or New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, and private transport. The midtown bus leaves from the New York Public Library, with a 90-minute ride to Staten Island, so plan accordingly. It’s crucial to time your arrival, as the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge closes at 7am on race day. Be mindful of wave and transportation schedules, as buses and ferries leave at designated times to get you to the start.

Starting Location and Timing

The NYC Marathon begins on Staten Island with five waves of starts. Wave 1 begins at 9:10 a.m., Wave 2 at 9:45 a.m., Wave 3 at 10:20 a.m., Wave 4 at 10:55 a.m., and Wave 5 sets off at 11:30 a.m. Each wave is assigned a corral and pacer, so runners should be familiar with their assigned time and plan accordingly.

Athletes Village and Dunkin' Donuts Hats

At the start in Athletes Village, there will be plenty of porta-potties (around 1,500) and complimentary Dunkin’ Donuts coffee and hats, a beloved tradition. However, many runners prefer to bring their own food and hydration to ensure they’re fueled properly before the race.

Spectating and Watching the Race

If you’re spectating, Central Park is one of the best spots to catch the final miles. The area from Columbus Circle to the grandstands offers prime views, but tickets for the grandstands can be purchased ahead of time.

For those not in NYC, live coverage will be available on WABC-TV from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and ESPN2 will offer extended coverage until 1:00 p.m, with Spanish coverage on ESPN3. Live streaming will also be accessible via the ABC7NY app and ESPN platforms.

Marathon Course Overview

The course itself is a test of endurance and strategy, starting with the climb over the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. After a steady descent, runners enjoy the vibrant energy of Brooklyn. At mile 13.5, you’ll cross into Queens, before hitting the notorious Queensboro Bridge at mile 15, a challenging climb that leads into Manhattan’s cheering crowds. From mile 16-20, it’s a straight stretch up 1st Avenue. You’ll briefly pass through the Bronx at mile 20 before re-entering Manhattan for the final miles through Harlem and Central Park.

The marathon’s course is both demanding and exhilarating, and with a bit of planning and preparation, you’ll conquer it like a pro!

Your Complete Guide to the NYC Marathon👟

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