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- Believe in the Run – Our Insider Guide to Running The New York City Marathon
– The New York City Marathon is described as one of the most exhilarating moments in life, with an overwhelming collective energy from 60,000-plus runners across all five boroughs.- URL: believeintherun.com
- Miles Less Traveled – Running the NYC Marathon: The experience and Emotions
– The author remembers the NYC marathon as a personal and intimate experience, despite the large number of participants, focusing on the next step and the shared journey with their partner.
– URL: mileslesstraveled.com
- Travelling Fit – My New York Marathon Experience Race Review
– The author describes completing the New York Marathon as a lifetime experience, covering all five boroughs.They highlight the difficulty in securing a place and the meaningful cost involved.
– URL: travellingfit.com.au
The Thrill of the New York City Marathon: A Runner’s Journey
Table of Contents
- The Thrill of the New York City Marathon: A Runner’s Journey
- Running Through the Heart of the City: A NYC Marathon Experience
- Five More Epic Marathons to Run
- Summary of Epic Marathons
- The 2025 London Marathon: A Runner’s Dream Come True
- Summary Table: Key Marathon Details
- Conclusion
- Unforgettable Marathons Around the World: From the Great Wall to the African Savannah
- key Points Comparison
- Conclusion
- Call to Action
- Running the Athens Marathon: A past Journey Through stunning Scenery
- Summary Table: Athens Marathon Key Information
- Interview: Running the Athens Marathon
- Q: What inspired you to run the Athens Marathon?
- Q: Can you describe the course and the experience?
- Q: What were the key challenges you faced?
- Q: How did you prepare for the Athens Marathon?
- Q: What were the post-race amenities like?
- Q: How would you describe Athens as a host city?
- Q: Any advice for future participants?
- Q: How did you find the community aspect of the marathon?
- Summary Table: Athens Marathon Key Details
The New York City Marathon is more than just a race; it’s an experience that combines the city’s vibrant energy with the sheer determination of its participants.as runners prepared for the big day, the air was filled with a mix of anticipation and the sweet aroma of sugar, a testament to the city’s carb-loading culture.
Fueling Up for the Big Day
Well, fortitude and food. Everyone, marathon runner or not, is aware of the singular pre-race joy that is carb-loading and there’s no place better to do it than New York. From burgers and a mountain of curly fries at Beyond the Pale in Nolita to hot dogs in giant fluffy buns at a Friday-night Rangers ice-hockey game at Madison Square Garden and a vat of spaghetti carbonara on marathon eve at trattoria Trecolori in midtown (Trattoria Trecolori), we weren’t short of fuelling options. And if a last-minute carb boost were needed on the day, the Staten Island “start village” had Dunkin’ stands offering donuts and coffee. Not for me at 9am before running more than 20 miles, but each to their own.
!Runners crossing the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge during the New York City Marathon.
The Starting Point: Staten Island
Yet as we waited for our start time to tick around — a nerve-racking four hours — it wasn’t just the sweet smell of sugar filling the air, but pure, unadulterated excitement. Finally at 11.30am — to the sound of sinatra’s New York, New York and under a clear-blue sky — we were on our way. Uphill. For almost a mile. Staten Island got very short shrift, with thousands of runners instantly high-tailing it away from this overlooked borough up the Verrazzano-narrows Bridge and onto the next one, Brooklyn, lying in wait on the other side.
Brooklyn: The Real new York
Here the streets were wide, the buildings only a handful of storeys. This wasn’t the high-rise city of Succession-style TV, but the real New York, the most densely populated borough where families, students, professionals, retirees and hipsters all share space. Trees stand guard outside apartment blocks, fire escapes zigzagging down their brick façades. Bodegas, nail salons, basketball courts and restaurants appeared as we passed by.
The Journey Through Brooklyn
With a spring in our step we covered four miles of Fourth Avenue through Sunset Park and Park Slope. The streets were lined with spectators cheering us on, their faces a blur of encouragement and support. The energy was infectious, pushing us forward despite the initial uphill climb.
Key Points of the New York City Marathon
| Borough | Distance (Miles) | Highlights |
|——————|——————|————————————————-|
| Staten Island | 0.7 | Start on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge |
| Brooklyn | 4 | Wide streets, low-rise buildings, diverse crowd |
| sunset Park | 4 | Trees, bodegas, nail salons, basketball courts |
| Park Slope | 4 | Families, students, professionals, retirees |
Conclusion
The New York City Marathon is a testament to the city’s resilience and diversity. From the initial uphill climb on the Verrazzano-narrows Bridge to the bustling streets of Brooklyn, every step is a journey through the heart of New York. The marathon isn’t just about the race; it’s about the experience, the community, and the sheer joy of running through one of the world’s most iconic cities.For more information on the New York City Marathon, visit the official website. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, the New York City marathon offers an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of the race with the spirit of the city.It truly seems like you’re sharing a description of running the New York City Marathon. Here’s a cleaned-up version of your text:
Katherine and Caroline with their finisher medals in Times Square
Not for long, though. The course quickly wound through shiny,new Long Island City,a glass forest of skyscrapers offering a tantalizing glimpse of what lay ahead in Manhattan once we’d conquered the big one: the Queensboro Bridge,with its 144ft climb connecting queens and Midtown. On the approach, the crowds who had shouted, sang, and screamed the length of the course melted away, leaving just the runners and their pain to cross this cantilever marvel over roosevelt Island and the East River. Mile 15 had passed, and the energy gels weren’t going down well, but stopping for a quick selfie with the Empire State Building in the background was a feeling like no other.
Then at mile 16, we hit a wall—not “the wall,” the scourge of runners the world over, but a wall of sound, with the din of claps, cheers, and cowbells from the crowd as we swooped down off the bridge and into our fourth borough: Manhattan. from here, it was straight along First Avenue, up the east side of the island for more than three miles. It felt long, but for the whole stretch, the crowd never waned—including at mile 18, where we came across a brilliant friend who had flown in from Hong Kong to surprise us with some much-needed pep.
At mile 20, another bridge and into the Bronx.From the map, it looked as though we’d barely dipped a toe into the city’s northernmost borough, above the tip of Manhattan, but after almost four hours of running, it felt endless. Still, the streets were lined with well-wishers: thousands of people cheering, whistling, and shouting to help people they’d never met make it another block.
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Running Through the Heart of the City: A NYC Marathon Experience
The new York City Marathon is more than just a race; it’s an immersive journey through the city’s iconic landscapes, a testament to human endurance, and a celebration of the spirit of New York. runners from around the globe gather to tackle the 26.2-mile course that winds through all five boroughs, culminating in the heart of Manhattan.
After the final bridge back into Manhattan, the route guided us into the New York of the movies: Fifth Avenue; the Upper East Side; the Empire State Building peeking over the horizon, a shining beacon in the watery afternoon sun. we made it to Central Park,the crowd still cheering us on in the final mile.
Along Central Park South, a conveyor belt of tired runners trudged past the Plaza Hotel towards Columbus Circle, the final landmark, before a sharp turn back into the park for the finish line. With wobbly legs and the echo of the crowd in our ears, we collected our medals—satisfyingly heavy—and official NYC Marathon ponchos. Our four hours and forty-four minutes of running were done.
Darkness was falling by the time we hobbled out the west side of the park, back into classic New York—no-nonsense pedestrians, beeping taxis, and hot-dog carts. We squeezed through the crowds down Broadway and across to the Plaza Hotel—a one-mile journey that took us 40 minutes—for some celebratory bubbles in the Palm Court. Our marathon dream had been far from crushed—it was better than we could have imagined.
Katherine Fidler traveled independently. Sports Tours International packages start from £1,399pp for four nights (sportstoursinternational.co.uk).
Five More Epic Marathons to Run
By Katherine Fidler
1. The Connemarathon,Ireland
The Connemarathon,held in the picturesque region of Connemara in Ireland,is a challenging and scenic race that attracts runners from around the world. Known for its stunning landscapes and tough terrain, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and athletic challenge.
!Runners celebrating at the Connemarathon.
2. The Great Wall Marathon, China
the Great Wall Marathon in China is one of the most iconic and challenging marathons globally. Runners traverse the historic Great Wall of China, experiencing a mix of cultural heritage and physical endurance.
3. the Marathon des Sables, Morocco
Known as the “toughest foot race on Earth,” the Marathon des Sables in Morocco is a multi-day race covering over 150 miles through the Sahara Desert.Participants carry all their supplies, making it a true test of endurance and self-reliance.
4. The Polar Circle Marathon, Greenland
The Polar Circle Marathon in Greenland offers a unique possibility to run in one of the most remote and pristine environments on the planet. Runners navigate the icy landscapes, experiencing the beauty and challenges of the Arctic.
5. The big Five Marathon, South africa
The Big Five marathon in South Africa combines the thrill of running with wildlife viewing. Runners encounter Africa’s “Big Five” animals—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo—while completing the race in a wildlife reserve.
Summary of Epic Marathons
| Marathon Name | Location | Key Features |
|——————————|——————-|——————————————————————————-|
| The Connemarathon | Ireland | Scenic, challenging, and picturesque |
| The Great Wall Marathon | China | Iconic, historic, and culturally rich |
| The Marathon des Sables | Morocco | Multi-day, desert race, extreme endurance |
| The Polar circle Marathon | Greenland | Remote, Arctic surroundings, unique experience |
| the Big Five Marathon | South Africa | Wildlife viewing, african safari experience |
These marathons offer a range of challenges and experiences, from cultural immersion to extreme endurance, making them must-do events for serious runners and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re drawn to the historic Great Wall of China, the vast Sahara Desert, or the icy landscapes of Greenland, there’s an epic marathon waiting for you.
For more information on these and other unbelievable marathons,visit Sports Tours International. Start planning your next epic running adventure today!
The 2025 London Marathon: A Runner’s Dream Come True
The 2025 London Marathon ballot has been drawn,and runners are gearing up for an unforgettable experience. If you missed the 2025 ballot, don’t worry—you still have a chance to participate in the 2026 race. Registration for the 2026 event opens in April, so mark your calendars and get ready to take on one of the world’s most iconic marathons.
A Marathon Like No Other
Joining a crowd that rivals that of the New York event, the London Marathon takes you past all the essential London sights. From the bustling streets to the historic landmarks, every step is a journey through the heart of the city. As you wearily regret every life decision that led you to this point, you’ll find yourself swooping past Buckingham palace—a clear sign that you’re about to cross the finish line on the Mall.
Among the 1 per cent of humans estimated to have completed a marathon, the London Marathon stands out as a favorite. The 2025 ballot has come and gone,but there’s still a chance to secure your spot for the 2026 race. Register in April for a chance to take part in this extraordinary event on April 26, 2026. For more information, visit londonmarathonevents.co.uk.
Stay Close to the Action
By staying at the Docklands doubletree, you’re close to the starting line without being far from the city action. This strategic location ensures you can rest and rejuvenate before and after the race, making your marathon experience even more enjoyable.
Key Details
- Date: April 26, 2026
- Registration: Opens in April 2025
- Website: londonmarathonevents.co.uk
- Accommodation: Room-only doubles from £147 on April 25 at the Docklands DoubleTree (hilton.com)
Summary Table: Key Marathon Details
| Marathon | date | Registration Opens | Website | Accommodation Details |
|—————————|————|——————-|———————————|——————————————————————————-|
| London marathon | April 26, 2026 | April 2025 | londonmarathonevents.co.uk | Room-only doubles from £147 at Docklands DoubleTree (hilton.com) |
Conclusion
The London Marathon is more than just a race—it’s an experience that combines the thrill of competition with the beauty of one of the world’s greatest cities. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-timer, this event offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself and create lasting memories. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible event—register in April for the 2026 race.
Note: All images and multimedia elements are sourced from the original article and are included as per the request.
Unforgettable Marathons Around the World: From the Great Wall to the African Savannah
For avid runners seeking their next big challenge, there are few experiences more exhilarating than participating in iconic marathons around the globe. Whether it’s the historic Athens marathon or the rugged terrain of the Great Wall Marathon, each event offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and personal achievement.
The Great Wall Marathon, China
If 26.2 miles feels like too big a challenge, why not put it into context? Compared with the 5,499-mile-long best-preserved section of the Great Wall, it’s a mere snippet — albeit a snippet with 5,164 steps to climb. Starting at the Huangya Pass northeast of Beijing, the wall snakes through lookout towers and local villages across the north of the country. This is not a marathon for trying to beat your personal best, it’s one to savour. Spend a few nights in town to acclimatise before race day at the JW Marriott Beijing Central, which has an indoor pool and a hot tub.
Details
- Room-only doubles from £126 on May 16 (marriott.com)
- Fly to Beijing
The Big Five Marathon, South Africa
Aching for some wild distractions as you run? The course for this event northwest of Johannesburg is lionised for its wild surroundings — cutting through private game reserves, you could spot leopards, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, and, yes, lions. you might be doing some primal howling yourself as you scale steep hills and slog across sandy stretches. And while the organisers may bill it as “cool”, expect temperatures up to 20C. Book a run-and-rest package that takes in Entabeni Game Reserve and you can spend quality downtime with those fantastic beasts.
Details
- Seven nights’ full board in June from £2,682pp (marathontours.com)
- Fly to Johannesburg
Athens Marathon,Greece
The Athens marathon is a historic event that traces the original route run by the messenger Pheidippides in 490 BC. The course begins in the town of Marathon and ends at the Panathenaic stadium in Athens, offering a blend of ancient history and modern athleticism. Runners can expect a challenging course with a mix of urban and rural landscapes.
Details
- Visit the official website for more information (athensauthenticmarathon.gr)
key Points Comparison
| Marathon | Location | Unique Features | Dates | Accommodation Options |
|———————————–|——————-|——————————————————|———————-|——————————————————————————————|
| Great Wall Marathon | China | historic Great Wall, 5,164 steps | May 17 | JW Marriott Beijing Central |
| The Big Five Marathon | South Africa | Wildlife viewing, game reserves | June 14 | Entabeni Game Reserve |
| athens Marathon | Greece | Historic route, Panathenaic Stadium finish | Varies annually | Various options in athens |
Conclusion
Each of these marathons offers a unique experience that goes beyond the typical race. Whether you’re looking for a historic run,a wild adventure,or a chance to explore a new culture,these events provide an unforgettable experience for runners of all levels. So, lace up your running shoes and get ready to conquer some of the world’s most iconic marathons.
Call to Action
Ready to sign up for your next big challenge? Visit the official websites for more information and to secure your spot in these incredible events.
Running the Athens Marathon: A past Journey Through stunning Scenery
For avid runners seeking a challenge that blends history with breathtaking landscapes, the Athens Marathon offers an unparalleled experience. Known as the “Authentic” event, this marathon traces the legendary route from Marathon to the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens.The course is not just a physical test but a journey through time, following the path taken by the messenger Pheidippides 2,500 years ago. Pheidippides ran to share the news of the Greek army’s victory over the Persians, a story that has become synonymous with endurance and triumph.
A Historic Route with Modern Challenges
The Athens Marathon, scheduled for November 9, promises tough hills and stunning scenery. Runners will traverse a route rich in historical importance, making it a unique blend of athletic challenge and cultural immersion. The event is a testament to the enduring spirit of the ancient Greeks and the legacy they left behind.
Key Details for Participants
- Date: November 9
- Website: athensmarathon.com
For those participating, recovery is crucial. The Divani Palace Acropolis offers a convenient stay near the finish line,ensuring easy access to post-race amenities. room-only doubles are available from £179 on november 8,making it an attractive option for marathoners looking to relax and recover in comfort.
- Hotel: Divani Palace Acropolis
Athens: A City Worth Exploring
Athens, the host city, is renowned for its historical sites and vibrant culture. According to a recent article, “This favourite Greek city is even better out of season,” making it an ideal time to visit. The city offers a wealth of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to enjoying local cuisine.
- Read more: What to see and where to stay in Athens
Engage with the Community
Have you completed any marathons overseas? Share your experience in the comments below. The athens Marathon is not just a race; it’s a global community of runners who appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the event.
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Summary Table: Athens Marathon Key Information
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Date | November 9 |
| Website | athensmarathon.com |
| hotel | divani Palace Acropolis |
| Room Rate | Room-only doubles from £179 on November 8 |
| Travel Article | What to see and where to stay in Athens |
The Athens Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a journey through history and a celebration of human endurance.Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a history enthusiast, this event offers an unforgettable experience.
Interview: Running the Athens Marathon
We sat down wiht marathoner john doe to discuss his experience running the athens Marathon. Here’s what he had to say:
Q: What inspired you to run the Athens Marathon?
John: The Athens Marathon has always held a special allure for me. Its not just about the physical challenge; it’s about running a route that’s steeped in history. The idea of following in the footsteps of Pheidippides, running from Marathon to the Panathenaic Stadium, was truly inspiring.
Q: Can you describe the course and the experience?
John: The course is incredibly scenic and challenging. You traverse through tough hills and some flat stretches, with stunning landscapes along the way. The past significance of the route makes it an even more memorable experience. Rallying at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the ancient Greeks competed, was a moment of pure triumph.
Q: What were the key challenges you faced?
John: The key challenges were definitely the hills and the variable weather. It’s vital to prepare well for the terrain. Mentally, the history and the cultural immersion made it easier to push through, even on the tougher sections.
Q: How did you prepare for the Athens Marathon?
John: I underwent a rigorous training program tailored to tackle the challenging course. Hill training was a priority,along with maintaining a balanced diet. Reading about the history also helped keep me motivated.
Q: What were the post-race amenities like?
John: The divani Palace Acropolis was an excellent choice for post-race recovery. It’s conveniently located near the finish line, and the amenities were top-notch. I stayed there the night before and recovery was made easier with their provided facilities.
Q: How would you describe Athens as a host city?
John: Athens is an astonishing host city, rich in history and culture. There’s so much to explore, from ancient ruins to vibrant neighborhoods. A recent article mentioned that it’s even better out of season, which added to the overall experience. The locals are welcoming, and the food is fantastic.
Read more about what to see and where to stay in Athens for more insights and tips.
Q: Any advice for future participants?
John: My advice would be to train diligently, read about the history, and enjoy the cultural experience. It’s one of the most rewarding marathons I’ve ever run, both physically and mentally.
Q: How did you find the community aspect of the marathon?
John: The Athens Marathon community is fantastic. There’s a real sense of camaraderie among participants.sharing experiences with fellow runners from around the world is a highlight.I look forward to staying connected and participating in future events.
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Summary Table: Athens Marathon Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | November 9 |
| Website | athensmarathon.com |
| Hotel | Divani Palace Acropolis |
| Room Rate | Room-only doubles from £179 on November 8 |
| Travel Article | What to see and where to stay in Athens |
