The final meters of the race with the Finish Line in sight: the reactions of the runners are very mixed and are accompanied by the cheers of thousands of spectators who pack (for a fee) the metal steps mounted for the occasion near Tavern on The Green.
The Finish Line of the NYC Marathon is considered one of the most sought-after goals by runners across the planet. The NYC Marathon is part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors circuit, the six most prestigious marathons in the world. The others are Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, Tokyo.
Runners visibly exhausted just a few meters after the Finish Line. Reaching it is a dream for which the athletes have trained at least four months. In 2019, about 99.2% of the 54,119 participants crossed the finish line of the NYC Marathon. From the first edition in 1970, 1,283,000 runners have completed the race conceived and realized by Fred Lebow.
After the Finish Line and the awarding of medals, runners are directed to the exit route. Depending on whether runners chose to have a bag waiting for them at the finish, marathoners may have to wait up to an hour to leave the finish area.
One of the most coveted roles among NYRR volunteers is the Finish Line. The awarding of medals is a role reserved for very few chosen people and who have already served in other roles as a volunteer in past editions of the New York Marathon.
After receiving the medal, the runners walk towards the Central Park exit. All participants are provided with an heatsheet and a recovery bag with food and drinks. On the way out, qualified medical personnel observe runners and intervene if they notice someone in difficulty.
After receiving the medal, the runners walk towards the Central Park exit. All participants are provided with an heatsheet and a recovery bag with food and drinks. On the way out, qualified medical personnel observe runners and intervene if they notice someone in difficulty.
Runners who have chosen the “No baggage” option (about 35,000) obtain the characteristic blue poncho on Central Park West. A very slow procession of runners walks towards Columbus Circle, to join friends and relatives and head off for a well-deserved rest.
