"Ran this in 2013 and 2014. Last year, I followed it with the NYCM the following week.

Fairly standard NYRR race -- typical packet pick-up/ race start/ corral set-up/ run through Central Park.

The difference is the vibe. Given the ""kick-off"" to marathon week, all of the runners are pretty excited.

My first ever marathon was chicago 2011 and since then I have run full marathons and half marathons a total of 20 plus but I always go back to Chicago. The vibe is positive, the view is timeless and the people runners volunteers and spectators alike are warm, friendly and very

This was a great race. The signage was clear and it wasn't too crowded. The announcers were fun & played great music, plus there were a lot of people around to cheer runners on. It was relatively flat, minus a few small hills, and lots of great post-race entertainment.