The New York City Marathon isn't just a race; it's an event that brings to life an entire city and transforms it into a giant athletics stadium. Streets turn into cultural parties, bands play in the open, neighborhoods spring into action, and the resting-bitch-face expressions of city residents for once bloom into smiles and hearty laughs.
The annual 26.2-mile marathon includes thousands of participants from all over the world. They include professional runners, cyclists, and even casual joggers. The marathon begins in Staten Island, via the Verrazano-Narrows bridge, weaving its way through Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx, and culminating at Central Park in Manhattan.
The race unites diverse communities across boroughs, and millions of spectators line the streets to cheer the runners — they even hand over free water bottles, napkins, energy bars, and other necessities as a symbol of unity and support. Capturing these moments, standing in between the runners, and watching them soldier on and share their infectious energy, was an unforgettable experience.
The NYC Marathon isn't just a race; it's a testament to the city's vibrancy and is revered by all who call New York City home — including me, albeit only temporarily.
