A runner crosses the finish line during NYCRUNS’ inaugural marathon in Central Park. Credit: David Alm
About 500 runners gathered Sunday morning for what organizers called the first co-ed marathon held entirely in Central Park since 1975.
The marathon course essentially comprised five loops of the park, though it skipped the hilly northernmost section. A half-marathon with roughly 1,000 participants also took place Sunday.
“It was a huge success,” said David Alm, communications director for NYCRUNS, which put on the event and plans to do so again next year. “Our race is essentially a throwback to [the original New York City Marathon]. It appeals to a certain sensibility.”
The New York City Marathon stayed entirely within Central Park from 1970 to 1975, but since then has gone through all five boroughs. This past year, it was cancelled due to Hurricane Sandy.
