One Incredible Journey:
26.2
Written By:
Katrina Tolentino
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The Battle of Marathon took place in 490 BC during the Persian invasion of Greece. After the battle was over the Greek soldier Pheidippides, was sent as a messenger to the city of Athens. Pheidippides was sent to announce that the Persians had been defeated. It is said that he ran all the way from the city of Marathon to the city of Athens, without stopping. When he reached the assembly, he cried out, "Nenikekamen" before collapsing and dying.
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In keeping with the history of the first marathon, running groups from all over the world organize races that are similar to the one Pheidippides ran. One of the top five marathons to compete in is the New York City Marathon. This race debuted in 1970, and is sponsored by New York Road Runners Club. The first running of the New York City marathon consisted of four loops around Central Park. Today the race course consists of all five boroughs. The race begins on the first Sunday in November. The starting line is in Staten Island at the base of the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge. After crossing the bridge and completeing the first two miles of the race, the course runs eleven miles through neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
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At the half way mark of 13.1 miles, runners cross the Pulaski Bridge into the borough of Queens. They then cross the Queens Borough Bridge into Manhattan. Climbing this bridge's incline is considered one of the most difficult parts of the race. But it is also one of the most exciting parts too! As the runners come off the bridge they enter Manhattan on 1st Avenue. They have completed 16 miles at this point. Here is where runners are greeted with cheers, music and tons of support from spectators. One must remember not to allow the emotions, the cheers and the adrenaline get the best of you.
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As the runners continue down First Avenue they cross briefly into the Bronx via the Willis Avenue Bridge for only one mile. They then return to Manhattan via the Madison Avenue Bridge. Runners pass through Harlem down Fifth Avenue to Central Park. Runners enter the park at the southern end and continue for one mile to Columbus Circle. The race finishes outside Tavern on the Green. Thousands of spectators cheer on the runners for the last mile. It is truly an inspiring and emotional experience.
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January 1, 2008; I began my own journey much like Pheidippides. I decided to join the New York Road Runners Club. My dream to compete in the New York City marathon was about to come true. In order to gain entry I would have to complete nine NYRR qualifying races and then volunteer at one race as a safety marshal. On March 30, 2008; I ran my first race. It was the Scotland 10k and it was the first of many exciting races. Running in Central Park is difficult and amazing at the same time. There are some challenging hills as well as some beautiful scenic views. My times have decreased as my confidence has increased. Running in the New York City marathon is frightening but I know that it is a mental and emotional test against myself.
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On the morning of April 14, 2009; I received the confirmation email that guaranteed my entry into the New York City Marathon. A mixture of emotions swept through me. I felt excited, a sense of accomplishment, nervous, and sick to my stomach. I know that the first part of my journey is complete. I quailified for the marathon. Now the second part has begun, training. This will be no easy feat. I must gradually increase the number of miles that I run per week for the next 16 weeks. I must continue to hydrate properly. I must also continue to motivate myself to practice alone, practice in the heat and to know that every effort taken will help me to cross the finish line.
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November 1, 2009; at 10am the magic begins. My goal is to complete my first marathon in under four hours. I am confident that all my hard work and training will pay off. Just completing the race will be a test of my inner strength, mental ability and emotional limits. I know that it is going to be an event to remember. I have faced many struggles and bright moments during this journey. I will be happy to know that all the pain, blisters, rain, sore muscles, personal bests, friendships, and smiles were all worth it.
Created with CAST's UDL Book Builder
Created with CAST's UDL Book Builder