The 2016 TCS New York City Marathon was an epic experience that I have been trying to be a part of for years. I got into the lottery in 2012 (the year the race was canceled) and this year I was finally able to run it. That's the first thing to know - despite that this is the largest marathon in the entire world, it is very difficult to get into. My dad and I got entry through the Marathon Tours travel company (one of several ways you can get in). Being such a large race in such a densely-populated city, there are logistical challenges, but if you have your heart set on New York, it's absolutely worth it.

The expo is massive - held at the Javits Center - but it's easy to get to via the Subway. It's spread out and easy to find what you're looking for. We went on Friday to avoid the Saturday crowds and we didn't have any issues buying any of the items we wanted and getting some nice photo ops. You really feel the magnitude of the race you are about to run.

The race start is challenging because it starts on Staten Island. Marathon Tours arranged a coach bus for us (departed at 6:15 AM from near Grand Central Station), but when you get in "normally," you can opt for either bus or ferry based on where you are staying. I'm sure the ferry is lovely and more "new York," but I liked riding the bus. Upon arrival, there is a long line to get through security (don't panic) and an expansive runners village that has coffee, snacks, port-a-potties, etc.

We lucked out because the weather was gorgeous, but if it's the least bit cold or chilly, bring plenty of throw away layers. Our start wasn't until 10:40 AM, so we had plenty of time to rest and fuel up before the start. I have to tell you that when we toed the line for our wave start (based on anticipated finish time), it was a little bit emotional starting down the Verrazano Bridge listening to the smooth voice of Frank Sinatra singing "New York, New York" (played for each wave).

The Verrazano Bridge is nearly 2 miles long - meaning 1 mile uphill and 1 mile downhill to start. We were on the bottom level of the bridge and there was some wind, so the beginning was pretty chilly. This race is NOT EASY and maybe better for the "experience" than PR chasers (not to say that's impossible). There are multiple bridges (basically hills), the majority is straightaways (we had pretty consistent headwinds as we traveled North), and the whole course was VERY crowded.

That being said, if you're really looking for an experience, this is really hard to beat. You get a super unique view of New York, it is VERY well supported (thank you amazing volunteers), lots of people to cheer you on, and there is constant entertainment. This one was special for me because I was running it with my dad - was not too hard to stay with my running buddy, which was important to me. This is a race for anyone of any ability level (the average finish time is a little over 4:30) and I was so impressed with the number of people wearing shirts displaying their consecutive finishes - 38?! that's crazy amazing!

At the end of the race (Central Park), you can either collect your gear check bag OR you can collect your post race poncho (way nicer than it sounds). You select your option when you register, but you are not guaranteed the choice you select - you find out when you get your expo runner info. I don't think you can go wrong either way, but it was a bit of a challenge finding my dad again and he did have to walk a bit further than me. We took the Subway back to the hotel (which was free for runners).

The Bottom Line:
Run This Race If: You love big marathons, especially if you're interested in the Abbott World Majors. If you want to have an epic experience and don't mind a race that has some logistical challenges and is definitely not ripe for PRs (though not impossible).
Course: Challenging, point to point, hilly (bridges and Central Park finish), on the streets of New York. Some turns, but the vast majority is straight.
What Makes It Unique: The setting - I mean it's New York! I was also amazed at how many international runners there were. It's also the largest marathon in the world with over 50,000 runners finishing every year.
Cost: Pricey. 2016 entry: New York Road Runners members $216, Non-Members $255, Non-US Residents $347, Processing Fee $11. The larger issue is getting in. This is a really competitive lottery and you could try for years to get in. Of course there are ways - through NYRR, charity entries, and tour companies. This one is commitment though.
Date and Time: First weekend in November, staggered start based on corral placement.
Website: http://www.tcsnycmarathon.org/
Would I do It Again? Maybe, but not because of the race. I am so grateful that I had this opportunity to run it and would never take it back, but I'm not sure how many marathons I have in me (or in my dad for that matter). I have a feeling the next will mean trying something new, but I would definitely recommend this one.