The New York City Marathon marks its 50th anniversary this year, having grown from a modest field of 2,000 runners in its early days to a massive event attracting 60,000 participants across the city's five boroughs.
The race, which began in 1970, has become one of the world's most iconic marathons. Bill Rodgers of Melrose, Massachusetts, won the 1976 edition, crossing the finish line in Central Park.
In recent years, the elite competition has featured top international athletes. At the 2025 race on November 2, Kenya's Benson Kipruto edged out compatriot Alexander Mutiso to win the men's division, while Hellen Obiri claimed victory in the women's elite race.
The course spans all five boroughs, with runners making their way across the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge at the start before finishing in Central Park.
