From the warmth and comfort of your bed on the corner of First Avenue in Manhattan, The faint cheers that turn into a roar start to thunder as those brave souls approach their marathon milestone of 26.2 miles. As you approach the street, lines of family, friends, and New Yorkers grace the taped-off street with support and unity. Strangers become friends, and the common notion that everyone is together cheering on the runners catalyzes this beautiful Sunday morning sight.

There were around 51,402 runners in this year’s marathon. Some were seasoned professionals, and some were running for support of a cause, or just for fun, and of course the glory of being able to accomplish that feat. More than 128,000 entered the lottery for the race, but only so many can be picked, and there is always next year. When the winners get selected in March, training begins, whether you are alone in the task, or with a group, the training is just as important, if not more important than the actual race day itself. The tradition has come a long way, with the first one being held in 1970, when it was only $1 to run, and only 127 runners. Back then only 55 people were able to finish the full 26.2 miles.

This year was an emotional time on the sidelines of the marathon. The current world events have cast a dark shadow over the past few weeks, and it was evident when watching. People were expressing pain in what they wore while running and the signs that were being held on the sides. All 50 states were represented, along with 148 countries, and 16,748 international runners who came to New York City to be a part of this marathon. 

Standing on the course in Central Park with only two miles left, the emotion was overwhelming. A woman watching the marathon had no ties to anyone running but was crying just from being there and watching people of all ages, nationalities, and religions, running together all with the same common goal. She was touched by the community that something like running could create, “It’s just pure joy, no war, no hate, just peace, and comradery, and that’s all anyone can really ask for right now” Another couple was feverishly trying to find their daughter in the sea of runners, she would be wearing neon pink sneakers, and a shirt that said Emily. As she started to zoom by, her face lit up and she screamed, “Mom! Oh wow, hi Dad!” Running right over to hug them she stated “Two more miles just for you guys, thank you so much for being here”. The interactions lit up Central Park, and there was a beautiful sea of emotions that could be felt throughout the entire city.

The Q line later that day was filled with finishers in their orange ponchos graced with their medals, and celebrations of what these 51,402 people just accomplished. The energy was truly contagious, and for just a day, It felt like everyone was standing together to keep up with the accomplishments of the day. The New York City road runners are already preparing for next year as people still shine in the spotlight of 2023. This New York City tradition will continue to be a spotlight on not only the city but the whole world.