The 2011 ING NYC Marathon is set for its 42nd running next Sunday, Nov. 6th. The race is one of the largest in the United States, along with Boston and Chicago, boasting just over 45,000 finishers a year ago.
The race has come a long way since 1970, when runners continually lapped Central Park on their way to the 26.2 miles. Now, runners weave their way through all five boroughs, crossing several bridges in the process. Starting in Staten Island, the runners cross the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge into Brooklyn. Runners spend just over 13 miles winding their way through Brooklyn before entering Queens via the Pulaski Bridge. After a quick 2.5 miles, it's over the Queensboro Bridge and into Manhattan. The majority of the remainder of the race is spent in Manhattan, bookending a brief stint in The Bronx. The race culminates as runners make their way south on 5th Avenue, entering Central Park and crossing the finish line outside Tavern on the Green.
Gebre Gebremariam of Ethiopia is back to defend. Gebre won in his first ever marathon last year and is looking to go 2 for 2 in New York. The women's side is due for an exciting race as the 1-2 combo of Kenyan Edna Kiplagat and American Shalane Flanagan are not entered for the 2011 edition.
2011 NYC MARATHON RACE DAY SCHEDULE (all times EST)
8:30 a.m. Wheelchair Division
8:45 a.m. Foot Locker Five Borough Challenge
8:55 a.m. Handcycle Division and Ambulatory Athletes with Disabilities
9:10 a.m. Professional Women
9:40 a.m. Wave 1 Start (including Professional Men)
10:10 a.m. Wave 2 Start
10:40 a.m. Wave 3 Start
You can find all the information you need at www.NYCMarathon.org.