Inspiration and Perspiration: Marathoners Hit Central Park

by Avi - November 2, 2009 at 11:34 pm -

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Just when the runners participating in Sunday’s marathon were at their breaking point, they came into Central Park, and encountered a crowd of thousands of Upper West Siders and other visitors screaming for them to push through those last few miles. The site was so inspiring to local journalist Peggy Truong, she completely forgot where she was going:

“I gave high fives to random runners. I shouted, “Go!” to whatever name was on the bib of the next person on the other side of the railing. I screamed “Go Canada!” when I saw a couple of Canadian flags on a couple of runners.

The energy was bone chilling. The noise was incredible. The people were spectacular. This engagement on the sidewalk lasted for about an hour. My nose froze. My cheeks started to hurt from all the smiling at those whizzing by. I clapped so much that my palms turned into a dark shade of pink.

I never made it to school. Midtown is too far away when you’ve spent a good couple of hours trapped in marathon cheer. I decided to trek across to the Upper West Side to a café with free Internet. During my brisk walk in Central Park, I came across more marathon action. The last of the pack was crossing the finish line. Those who finished earlier were just walking out of the park to the designated reunion area. People were greeted with hugs, flowers and fresh clothes. Another spectacular sight.” (read the rest here)

Check out photos of marathoners willing themselves through the last few miles: