New York Marathon

New York Marathon is one of the major sports events of the world. Every year 37,000 participants both professionals and amateurs participate in this 26.2 mile long event. The New York Marathon first started in 1970 and involved running around the Central Park until the 26.2 mile target was achieved; but now the course runs through the five boroughs of New York City.

There are three categories of this marathon; the men’s events, the women’s events and the wheelchair event. The race commences from the Staten Island and after crossing the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, the participants head towards Brooklyn. From Brooklyn they turn northwards and after running 13 miles, enter Queens. From Queens they cross over the Queensboro Bridge into Manhattan. From here it is a four mile run to Bronx. The participants return to Manhattan after a brief run through Bronx and then enter the Central Park. This is the final stage of the marathon and by this time most of the participants are completely exhausted. The last stage is three mile long and quite tough. The race ends in front of the Tavern Green.

The New York Marathon carries prize money of $900,000 and many participants enter to raise money for charity. It provides an opportunity to the participants to enjoy the sights of New York as well. This major event is watched by millions of people both on television and on the entire 26.2 mile long course.