Tens of Thousands of Runners Take to the Streets for NYC Marathon, Shattering Records and Expectations.
As New York City's five boroughs came together in a burst of color and energy, over 55,000 runners embarked on the iconic 26.2-mile course for the 54th annual TCS New York City Marathon. The world-renowned event saw participants from all corners of the globe converge on the city, each driven by their own unique motivations and storylines.
The day unfolded with near-perfect conditions: crisp temperatures in the mid-to-high 50s, clear skies, low wind, and sunshine that seemed to fuel the marathoners' spirits. It was a testament to the event's enduring appeal, as thousands of spectators - many of whom were out-of-town visitors - turned out to cheer on their favorite runners.
Kenya's Benson Kipruto proved the fastest in the men's division, securing a thrilling photo finish that will be etched in the memories of marathon enthusiasts for years to come. Meanwhile, Kenya's Hellen Obiri took home her second consecutive women's title, setting a new course record in the process and cementing her reputation as one of the world's top distance runners.
The wheelchair divisions saw equally impressive performances from Marcel Hug of Switzerland and American Susannah Scaroni, who dominated their respective categories with impressive speed and agility.
Beyond the elite fields, thousands of amateur runners - many from the US mainland but also visitors from across Europe and beyond - took part in the marathon, each driven by a desire to push themselves to new heights. For some, like Jeff Lee, who flew in from Seattle to support his friend Daniel Kunkel, it was about being part of a vibrant community that transcended borders and cultures.
For Monika Foster, visiting New York from Switzerland, the experience was deeply personal: she's an avid trail runner who finds solace in the sport's ability to connect her with nature. For many like her, the NYC Marathon represents a chance to tap into that sense of connection - if only for a few hours on Sunday morning.
As the marathoners made their way through the course, past iconic landmarks and colorful spectators, they forged memories that would last a lifetime. And as one of the world's largest and most beloved marathons continues its tradition of growth and innovation, it remains to be seen what 2026 will bring - but for now, this year's event stands as a testament to human endurance and community spirit.
As New York City's five boroughs came together in a burst of color and energy, over 55,000 runners embarked on the iconic 26.2-mile course for the 54th annual TCS New York City Marathon. The world-renowned event saw participants from all corners of the globe converge on the city, each driven by their own unique motivations and storylines.
The day unfolded with near-perfect conditions: crisp temperatures in the mid-to-high 50s, clear skies, low wind, and sunshine that seemed to fuel the marathoners' spirits. It was a testament to the event's enduring appeal, as thousands of spectators - many of whom were out-of-town visitors - turned out to cheer on their favorite runners.
Kenya's Benson Kipruto proved the fastest in the men's division, securing a thrilling photo finish that will be etched in the memories of marathon enthusiasts for years to come. Meanwhile, Kenya's Hellen Obiri took home her second consecutive women's title, setting a new course record in the process and cementing her reputation as one of the world's top distance runners.
The wheelchair divisions saw equally impressive performances from Marcel Hug of Switzerland and American Susannah Scaroni, who dominated their respective categories with impressive speed and agility.
Beyond the elite fields, thousands of amateur runners - many from the US mainland but also visitors from across Europe and beyond - took part in the marathon, each driven by a desire to push themselves to new heights. For some, like Jeff Lee, who flew in from Seattle to support his friend Daniel Kunkel, it was about being part of a vibrant community that transcended borders and cultures.
For Monika Foster, visiting New York from Switzerland, the experience was deeply personal: she's an avid trail runner who finds solace in the sport's ability to connect her with nature. For many like her, the NYC Marathon represents a chance to tap into that sense of connection - if only for a few hours on Sunday morning.
As the marathoners made their way through the course, past iconic landmarks and colorful spectators, they forged memories that would last a lifetime. And as one of the world's largest and most beloved marathons continues its tradition of growth and innovation, it remains to be seen what 2026 will bring - but for now, this year's event stands as a testament to human endurance and community spirit.