TCS New York City Marathon

TCS New York City Marathon

TCS New York City Marathon

( 102 reviews )
98% of reviewers recommend this race
  • New York,
    New York,
    United States
  • November
  • 26.2 miles/Marathon
  • Road Race
  • Event Website

Jonathan McWalter

Wisconsin, United States
27 55
2018
"New York, New York!!"
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
Jonathan McWalter's thoughts:

Well...Wow. That's the one word I can use to describe an event as amazing and challenging as the New York City Marathon. I am so happy I was selected in the lottery and given the chance to run this iconic race. It did not disappoint, from the cheering crowds to the monster bridges (not that intimidating after all) to the amazing expo and pre-race setup. Just a tremendous experience that I will forever remember.

Race management and communication was good. I only looked over their material via a desktop computer and there as never any technical issues. Lots and lots of emails. Some were not important; just trying to get you to purchase event clothing. Other messages were from the New York Road Runners detailing the weekend's events, transportation options, making sure you selected a transportation option, etc. If there ever had been any real problems, I have no doubt that I would have known in plenty of time.

The expo was great! Lots of vendors. Not congested and easy to walk around and have a conversation. I liked that the expo/vendors and even the New Balance store were separate from where you picked up your bib and t-shirt. It made everything much easier to deal with and not have you tripping all over people. I enjoyed the number of vendors that had samples of their products, some of which I had never had the chance to try before and the previous runners going over the course was great as well. They provided the necessary info you needed while injecting some humor into their presentation making it more enjoyable than just someone standing up there boring you with a dead voiced speech. Definitely worth the extended period of time that I spent there, lol.

The day of the race started with everything going smoothly. Got the train down to the Staten Island Ferry and made it across with zero issues (even though I missed my ferry slot time), then onto the bus to cart us all over to the corrals. Dropped off my bag (wish I had gotten the poncho, but that was my feeling post race) and then had some water and a bagel from the many options that were available in the staging area. This is the first race I've been to where there were this many options BEFORE a race. Bagels, coffee, water, Gatorade gels and drink. Impressed to say the least.

The course was as beautiful and amazing as advertised. Crossing the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge into Brooklyn gave an incredible view of Manhattan and the skyline. I'm not winning or placing anywhere so I freely admit I stopped to take a photo. I couldn't resist. The crowds were so energetic in every borough you crossed into. People yelling welcome as you entered Queens or the Bronx. All of them blasting music for you, yelling out your name as you ran by. The feeling of each boroughs pride was so evident. The bridges were tough but I was mentally prepared for those and the challenge they provided wasn't insane, but...yes, the "but", the repetitive smaller inclines and declines and then inclines again, were really tough at times overall. The aid stations were top notch and extremely well managed. Clear as day what was water and Gatorade and they never seemed to become too congested when you went through them. Damn fine job done by all those volunteers.

Finally, the long sleeve tech shirt you receive, I thought, was pretty nice and I look forward to wearing it as the weather becomes chillier. The medal is awesome. I love it and it's a worthy item to have after finishing this great race.

If you have the chance to run this epic marathon, do it! It will be one for the ages and an experience you will never forget and will most assuredly enjoy!

Login or sign up to leave a comment.

Latest reviews

Loading Reviews...