New York City Marathon 101

Did you know that the 2024 New York City Marathon became the world’s largest marathon ever with 55,646 total finishers? Now you do!

Team RunRun athlete, Laura, after crushing the New York City Marathon!
Team RunRun athlete, Laura, after crushing the New York City Marathon!

And with all the intel below, you’re on your way to your own historic NYC finish!

1. Pre-Race Zoom Call 

With the New York City (NYC) Marathon coming up soon, we’re bringing veterans and first-timers together to ask questions, share insights and build some excitement heading into race weekend!

Join our drop-in Zoom call on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025 at 7:00 pm EST where first-time NYC runners can get answers from athletes and coaches who have run this race before. 

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/s/3883695228 

If you think you can make it, or want to submit a question in advance, email your host TRR coach Elaina Raponi at [email protected].

Can’t make the call? We’ll record the call and share the link in the following week’s newsletter. 

2. New York City (NYC) Marathon Race Intel

New York City Marathon course map.
New York City Marathon course map.

Date: Sunday, November 2, 2025

Location: New York City, NY

Start: Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island, near the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge

Finish: Central Park, between West 67th Street and West 68th Street

Course type: Point-to-point; take a look at this page for more course info

Boston Qualifier: Yes

Elevation gain: 810 feet/ 246 meters

Elevation loss: 824 feet/ 251 meters

Temperature:

Average high: 57°F/ 13°C
Average low: 36° F/ 2°C

Tips from Coaches

“While crossing the Madison Avenue Bridge (Last Damn Bridge) around mile 21, move to your right for tons of encouragement and goodies to help propel you to the finish!” – Coach Dana Caruso

”The Verrazano is a suspension bridge, so there’s subtle bounce that reduces perceived exertion. Combined with the adrenaline of starting the New York City Marathon, it doesn’t feel as tough — be sure to hold back and not get too excited so early in!” – Coach Martina Nadeau

”The bridges lie and make your GPS go wild. Therefore, pace by effort, not GPS. Splits will be wrong in multiple spots, so do not panic.” – Coach Martina Nadeau

”The first mile is crowded and a lot of folks stop mid-course to take photos – try not to get too frustrated! Instead, be cautious of the runners around you to avoid twisting an ankle or short stopping.” – Coach Martina Nadeau

New York City Marathon elevation map.
New York City Marathon elevation map.

3. Race Reports

Want even more intel on the New York City Marathon? Read some of the race reports from Team RunRun coaches: 

Team RunRun athlete, Phil, setting a 14-minute PR at the 2023 New York City Marathon.
Team RunRun athlete, Phil, setting a 14-minute PR at the 2023 New York City Marathon.

NYC Marathon Race Report – Austin Meyers

NYC Marathon Race Report – Matt U

4. Shakeout Run 

Date: TBD

Time: TBD

Location: TBD

5. New York City Marathon Coaching Info

At Team RunRun, we have 100s of wonderful, experienced coaches ready to help you crush your goals, regardless of your ability, budget, or lifestyle. Specifically, for New York City Marathon race advice, here are some coaches to start with:

In addition, see the official race website here for even more information.

Above all, good luck!