The NYC Marathon is an annual marathon that runs through all 5 boroughs of New York City.
Next NYC Marathon Date: November 3rd, 2024
OVERVIEW
The New York City Marathon was originally located in Central Park. Runners in the 1970s would complete loops through the park drive area, which could be grueling. Less than half of the participants finished the race in these early years since the loops covered some of the most exhausting ground of the park, including steep hills.
In today's marathon, which is the traditional length of 26 miles, runners begin on Staten Island and end at Tavern on the Green in Central Park. The race leaves the boroughs and enters Manhattan at mile 16. From there it goes down Fifth Avenue, eventually crossing southern Central Park, loops out again, and reenters the park at Columbus Circle.
The Central Park portions of the marathon take a tremendous amount of work to organize. The New York Roadrunners Club is primarily responsible for the activities at Tavern on the Green, including helping runners and family members find each other after the race is over.
The marathon usually takes place the first weekend in November. During this time, large sections of the park are closed to pedestrians to accommodate the race. If you are interested in viewing the marathon, there are a few spots in the park that are worthwhile, including the area near 67th Street called "Runner's Grove." To watch runners cross the finish line at Tavern on the Green you must purchase tickets, as space is limited.
As of 2014, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been the New York City Marathon’s title sponsor and the year-round premier partner of NYRR, following global financial services company ING as the first title sponsor from 2003.