New York City is a crazy and crowded place. Before I lived here and got into the running scene, I never would have thought of NYC as a running city. Being a concrete jungle full of busy streets, you might be surprised to know that NYC is one of the best places to be active. If you enjoy doing races, you will never run short in this city. Thanks to New York Road Runners, there are races nearly every weekend, ranging from 1 mile to 26.2+. Whether you’re trying to win the race or merely get in a few fun miles with friends before celebrating at brunch, there are tons of great races to take part in.
I ran my first NYC race back in July 2005 when I was interning in the city during the summer. That one race got me hooked. The energy is electric, pushing you to work harder than your typical pace thanks to race day adrenaline and thousands of excited runners surrounding you.
Here’s a look at my five favorite New York City races. If you’re considering logging miles in the city, put these on your to-do list.
New York City Marathon
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For New York runners, this is a can’t-miss race. Running through all five boroughs with 50,000+ passionate runners is an incredible experience. If you’re a local and can scatter your friends and family around the course to cheer you on, it’s an extra amazing experience.
I’m not sure what’s harder, training and completing the race or scoring a spot to participate. While some lucky folks will get in from the lottery, if you really want to run, don’t leave it up to chance. Either join a charity team or do NYRR’s 9+1. The full calendar year prior to the race, become a NYRR member, run 9 qualifying races and volunteer at one race and you’ll get a guaranteed spot (this is what I did).
As you train for this race, I highly recommend reading A Race Like No Other to get an intimate look at the miles you’ll be covering.
New York City Triathlon
After completing this race 6 years in a row, I can confidently tell you it is so good that it’s worth the dip in the Hudson River. While far smaller than the NYC Marathon with about 5,000 participants each year, the NYC Triathlon is still quite large for a triathlon. Even so, this race is expertly organized and makes for a seamless, stress free experience as a competing athlete.
The race starts on the Upper West Side with a 1-mile swim down the Hudson River. Is it disgusting to swim in the Hudson? You betcha. But you’re swimming with the current so even if it is gross, it’s over super quick, likely to be your fastest mile swim ever. Next you jump on your bike and head north for a moderately hilly 40k ride. If you’re not too competitive, be sure to look around and take in the views as you cross the Henry Hudson Bridge. Finally you drop your bike off and start your 6.2 mile run around Central Park.
Triathletes are some of the friendliest and most supportive people and you feel this throughout the race, cheering on your fellow athlete. This course will challenge you to push your limits and you’ll deserve a post race celebration after getting through your swim, bike & run.
NYC Half Marathon
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This is the race to run if you want to feel like you’re taking over NYC. The beginning of the NYC Half Marathon course is a hilly loop around Central Park, then takes you through a shut-down Times Square. Such a rare and cool New York experience. You’ll head south down the West Side Highway to end your course at the bottom of Manhattan.
Brooklyn Half Marathon
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From the kick-off of race weekend at packet pickup to the finish at Coney Island, this race feels like a party. The Brooklyn Half has recently grown in popularly and sells out quickly. The course loops Prospect Park, then is a pretty straight shoot to the Coney Island boardwalk. The second half might be a little boring since it’s a straight run, but it’s worth it when you get to do your final sprint on the boardwalk with beach views welcoming you to the finish line.
While maybe not the most important reason to run a race, the Brooklyn Half always has the best race t-shirts.
New York Mini 10k
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For my ladies out there, this is the race for you. The women’s-only NYRR Mini 10K takes you on one loop around Central Park. It feels special to be running with a pack of powerful women, plus you get a cute tank top and a finisher medal, not typical for 10k distances. This race is in early June so you’re likely to warm weather. The race makes for a perfect kick off to a Saturday with your girlfriends. Run the 10k and then grab mimosas and brunch near the park.
Having the opportunity to race regularly in my city has been a real treat and if you’re a runner in NYC, don’t take this for granted! Now you let me know, what you’re favorite New York City race? Leave your comment below.
