ESPN reports, that since it began in 1970, the New York City Marathon has become a monolith moment for both running and New York City. There are 45 reasons why, after 45 years, the event remains a significant part of the city.
The top reason is due its size, with more than 50,000 competitors annually, the New York City Marathon is the largest in the world. Another big reason is due to the founder of the race, Fred Lebow, who died of cancer in 1992. He ran 69 marathons in 30 countries, including an emotional finish in NYC race in 1992 after he was diagnosed with cancer. He also organized the Empire State Building Run-Up and is immortalized in a statue in Central Park near the finish line.
To read all 45 reasons, as well as to view pictures of the Marathon over the years, please click here.