photo: nyrr.org

40 years ago, 127 athletes ran several loops of Central Park and the world-renowned New York City Marathon was born. Thanks to the hard work and passion for the sport of running by Fred Lebow, a few years later the event grew into the five borough race that the Marathon is today.  Along with Boston, Chicago, London, and Berlin, the NYC Marathon rounds off the group of events known as the World Marathon Majors.  Each year, the field of runners grows larger; the 2009 event will welcome around 42,000 participants. Below you will find information for runners, spectators, and everything you need to know about the 2009 New York City Marathon.

Information for Runners
How to Qualify for New York City Marathon
New York City Marathon Course Route
Tapering and Race Week Advice 
Health and Fitness Race Expo
Thousands flock to expo, meet elite runners and best-selling authors
Marathon Retail Locations
Race Results - coming Sunday, Nov. 1

Information for Spectators
New York City Marathon Course Route
Best Places to View Marathon
Volunteers Needed for Marathon
Broadcasting of New York City Marathon

Who To Watch For
Paula Radcliffe looks to defend title as New York City Marathon champion
Americans hopeful that Ryan Hall will bring US victory
Edward Norton runs with Masaai warriors for Conservation
Charity Teams in the New York City Marathon
Paula Radcliffe is crowd favorite in New York City 
Two-time NYC champion Marilson Gomes dos Santos goes for 3rd win

Pre-Race Day Events
Lululemon offers running clinics and celebrations: October 20, October 28
NYRR Poland Spring Marathon Kick-Off: October 25
"A Race Like No Other" Reading by Liz Robbins: October 26
Ready, Set, Go! Marathon Prep Course by The Hospital for Joint Diseases: October 29
Newton Natural Running Clinic and Group Run: October 30
International Friendship Run: October 31

Share your story! 

What brought you to the 2009 New York City Marathon? Was this your first marathon, your first NYC Marathon or are you a familiar face to this course?  Did you run this race for a charity, in honor of someone, or as a personal goal? How was your race day experience? What is your 2009 New York City Marathon story?

For a chance to be featured in the New York Running Examiner column on Marathon Monday, email newyorkrunningexaminer@gmail.com with YOUR experience from this year's race.