The TCS NYC Marathon is one of the six World Marathon Majors, taking place every November in New York City, USA. First held in 1970, it has grown into one of the most celebrated and diverse marathons in the world. The race begins on Staten Island and winds through all five boroughs—Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan—before finishing in Central Park. The course is known for its unique urban landscape and lively crowd support, making it a favourite among both elite and amateur runners. In 2024, the marathon is expected to draw around 50,000 participants, with many using the event to raise funds for various charities. The NYC Marathon embodies the spirit of the city, celebrating resilience, community, and the joy of running.
We’re beyond excited to bring you the ultimate weekend experience. From Fast Braid Friday to the official Runna shakeout run, our NY Runna Hub has you covered to be race-day ready for Sunday, November 3rd.
Plan your perfect NY weekend itinerary and check out our event line up here!
📍 1875 Broadway, New York City
⏰ Thursday, October 31st - Sunday, November 3rd
💼 What Should I Pack?
Packing for race day is crucial. Not only is it important to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything vital, but also to get that pre-race buzz turned up! Here’s some things to consider:
Running Kit: Wear your race-day outfit before you set off for the race in the morning.
Sports Nutrition: Pack any gels, chews, or snacks you’ve used in training. There will be gels handed out on the course, but bring your own so you know you're prepped!
A pre-run layer: It is a good idea to bring an old jumper to the start line to keep warm. It can be COLD early in New York, even if the forecast is bright for the rest of the day. We would suggest bringing some warm clothes which you can then discard at the start line. Clothing left on the course is usually collected and donated to charity at the end!
Drop Bag: Pack a warm top, spare socks, blister plasters, and a recovery snack for after the race.
Electronics: Charge your phone, watch, and headphones the night before. Download any necessary playlists which will get you through those kms!
🗺️ How do I collect my race bib and where is the expo located?
The NYC Marathon Expo, officially known as the TCS New York City Marathon Expo, takes place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan. The specific address is:
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
655 W 34th St,
New York, NY 10001.
This vibrant three-day event features hundreds of exhibitors showcasing the latest in running gear, nutrition, and technology, as well as exclusive merchandise. It’s also the designated location for participants to pick up their race packets. The expo provides an opportunity for runners to connect with fellow athletes and explore various wellness offerings leading up to the marathon.
For more information, please click here: NYC Marathon Expo.
🚌 How do I get to the start line?
To reach the start line of the NYC Marathon on Staten Island, you have several convenient options. The best way is to take the Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan, which offers stunning views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty. Once you arrive at the St. George Terminal, shuttle buses will transport you to the start area. If you're staying in New York City, public transportation options like the subway and buses can also get you to the ferry terminal easily.
Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available, but be prepared for possible delays due to race-day traffic. If you choose to drive, note that parking on Staten Island can be limited, and road closures may complicate access to the start line, so public transit is strongly recommended. Be sure to arrive early to allow time for security checks and to get settled before the race begins!
🏃 Where will I be running?
The NYC Marathon is renowned for its unique and diverse course, providing an unforgettable running experience. The race starts on Staten Island and finishes in Central Park, taking runners through all five boroughs: Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan. Participants will traverse iconic landmarks such as the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Times Square, immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of the city. The atmosphere is electric, with over 2 million spectators lining the streets to cheer on the runners! Throughout the course, there are numerous aid stations offering water, energy drinks, and medical support to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
🐌 How should I pace myself on race day?
Since the NYC Marathon features a diverse course, you’ll have the opportunity to fully utilize the race day workout provided by Runna. Expect pacing alerts and audio cues similar to those during your training runs, helping you stay on track. Start off at a comfortable pace and aim to negative split by the halfway mark. The support along the route is incredible, and you'll truly enjoy the experience!
However, be aware that the tall buildings and skyscrapers in the city can cause some GPS issues on race day, particularly around miles 13 and 14. So, it's best to rely on the pace markers and your own instincts regarding your marathon pace.
Here are a few more tips on marathon pacing for you too!
👪 How do I meet up with friends and family after?
After the NYC Marathon, you can meet up with friends and family at the official post-race gathering area in Central Park. This designated space is specifically set up for runners to reunite with their loved ones and celebrate their accomplishments. The area often features live entertainment and refreshments, creating a fun atmosphere to relax and enjoy the post-race experience together!
🎉 The Runna After Party
Join us for an incredible Runna after-party. We'll have post-race massages, drinks & food available for everyone who comes along. We'll be starting at 1pm, and going until 4pm! Find us at 1875 Broadway, New York, NY 10023 (Runna pop-up store).
🔜 What's Next After the Race?
You did it! Now it's time to celebrate! 🏅 Grab a drink, loosen your shoelaces, and take some time to stretch and enjoy the moment.
Best of luck with your 2024 NYC Marathon race, and most importantly, have fun!
Take in the sights and have the best time - we will be with you every step of the way.
Check out the video below for more of our Coaches' top tips for race day!