Going in to the NYC Marathon, I had a lot of questions about logistics surrounding the start and the finish and everything in between!
It turns out many of you have the same questions, so while I can still remember all the details I thought I would share some answers.
Do you really get peed on if you start on the low bridge???
I swear this has to be myth. I was one the lower bridge and you don’t enter it until everyone is running. The likelihood of anyone stopping within the first 10 feet of the race to pee, particularly with tons of cameras and helicopters flying by them is very unlikely. Now right after the bridge, put on your blinders unless you want to see a mass of men whipping it out along the walls.
What was the security like?
When we arrived to Fort Wadsworth for the start there was a VERY long large line for all runners to go through before getting to any corrals. Cops were checking for bibs, ensuring you had only the clear plastic bag and winding everyone who passed through. Lots of discarded bags, blankets and such outside because they were on the not allowed list.
Why do they say allow 30-60 minutes for the finisher’s area?
It’s not because you are hanging out having a party. You end up walking at least another mile to get through the entire finishing area and then back out to where you can meet up with family and friends. It’s simply a lot of people to move through and it’s a slow march past medical, the photo line, heat blankets, a bag with water and snacks then much farther to any bag pick up area.
What are the VIP tents?
There are a number of VIP tents and entry is given for a lot of sponsors, elites, celebrities or awesome people like Laura running her 100th marathon…and I think maybe some tickets are sold. The primary benefit is NO waiting for porta potties, which is a huge deal. Additionally you are out of the cold and able to sit on a chair, so if you arrive to the island hours before the start this an help to conserve a lot of energy. Worth it 100%.
What’s the expo like?
Definitely one of the better expos, if you like expos…and I do! A lot of the sponsors go all out with cheer stations, places to make signs, videos and of course all kinds of gear with NYC on it. Not a lot of “specials” or deals that I could find though.
I was lucky to attend NYC with Asics, which meant that I once again got to do a warm up run and breakfast with some amazing athletes. Here are a few marathon words of wisdom from Ryan Hall, Deena Kastor and Pete Jacobs.
Parties???
Yes there are parties galore surrounding this event. We had a chance to enjoy the HUGE Asics store in the Meatpacking area with a fun party and the Runner’s World Party…find a way to get to one. It’s just a way to get pumped up about the race and talk to a bajillion other people who love to talk running and have tips about the race.
Trying to capture them all while I can remember!
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