My first NYC Marathon was in 2013, and it was a race I will never forget. I ran for the “Team for Kids” charity and raised $2,620 to support their mission. As my first big marathon, I had no time goals—I just wanted to finish and soak in the experience. What an experience it was!
Team for Kids made everything seamless and comfortable. They provided a heated tent, bagels, coffee, hand warmers, and private port-o-lets, making the start of the race feel luxurious. They even organized a quick pre-race warm-up and escorted us to our corrals. I felt spoiled and incredibly lucky to have such great support.
The NYC Marathon itself was unlike anything I had ever experienced. The crowd support, entertainment, and energy were electrifying—it’s something that’s hard to put into words. From that year on, anytime someone mentioned they were running NYC, I couldn’t help but gush, “OMG—you are going to LOVE it!”
There are so many high points in the race that remain vivid in my memory, even after all these years:
The Verrazano Bridge: Starting the marathon by running over this iconic bridge, with helicopters hovering overhead, was surreal. It’s intimidating, but at the same time, absolutely awe-inspiring.
Brooklyn’s Energy: Brooklyn was alive with music on every street corner. The energy was so infectious that I barely had time to think about the effort of running. The community truly came out to support, and it made the miles fly by.
The Queensboro Bridge: Running off this bridge was a highlight. As I approached the exit, the roar of the crowd was deafening. The noise and excitement were overwhelming in the best way possible.
Entertainment Sections: The music, cheering, and energy along the route were indescribable. It felt like a moving party that carried you forward.
5th Avenue: This stretch was both challenging and exhilarating. The 3.5-mile straightaway seemed endless, but the signs, music, and cheering crowds were a constant boost.
Harlem’s Vibes: Harlem was unforgettable. A DJ pumped up both the runners and the crowd, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
Central Park Finish: Crossing the finish line in Central Park, surrounded by cheering spectators on both sides, made me feel like an elite runner. The energy here was unmatched.
The Post-Marathon Walk: After finishing, the "death march" out of Central Park was a surreal experience. Wrapped in the iconic blue poncho, I joined a sea of other finishers who looked like they were part of a sci-fi movie scene. Despite the exhaustion, it was oddly comforting to be part of such a unique moment.
This marathon is a lifetime experience that I believe anyone who loves running should have. It’s an event filled with unparalleled excitement and support, one that truly celebrates the spirit of the sport.
As for my performance, I finished in 3:56, and to my surprise, I managed to squeak in a Boston Qualifying time! It was the cherry on top of an already incredible day.
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