Sunday, November 3, 2013

New York City Marathon

Today is marathon day – also known as New York City’s finest hour. 


In honor of the occasion the entire city becomes one big street party and good will reigns supreme as everyone joins in to encourage the runners. 


Last year the event was cancelled due to Superstorm Sandy.  And this year they took all the garbage cans away on Wednesday night.  But at least the party is on.


We live on mile 17 where the crowds of spectators are so boisterous that First Avenue becomes a canyon of noise. 


Most of the crowd is actually there to cheer on their friends and relatives. 


They usually arrive in time to see the leaders run past and then cheer everyone else on as they wait. 


When the person they are waiting for arrives, it’s a hallmark moment. 


They exchange hugs, take a few photos and before too long the runner heads off again.  It is truly charming. 


But one year stands out as the most memorable because a couple, who had met at the marathon the year before, actually got married across the street. 


 Then they ran off to complete their run.   


Only in New York!
PJ

© 2013 PJ Lehrer

No comments:

Post a Comment