The 2024 New York City Marathon kicked off on a cool November morning with temperatures in the lower 40s. The crisp weather created a unique challenge for the participants, but many saw it as an opportunity for fast times and strong finishes. Sal Media was there to capture the excitement of the day, with Sal documenting the determination and grit of runners and wheelchair racers alike from Brooklyn, while Chia-Ta Tsai captured dynamic moments from Queens. Together, they highlighted the runnersโ journey across the famed 26.2-mile course that spans all five boroughs of New York City, delivering standout performances that captured the essence of endurance and determination.
The Menโs Wheelchair Race featured an impressive showing from Daniel Romanchuk, who claimed victory with a finish time of 1 hour, 36 minutes, and 31 seconds. Romanchukโs win marked a return to form, as he had previously taken the title in 2018 and 2019. His consistent pacing and powerful finish showcased his experience and skill in navigating the courseโs varied terrain.
Susannah Scaroni dominated the Womenโs Wheelchair Race, crossing the finish line in 1 hour, 48 minutes, and 5 seconds. Her commanding performance highlighted her tactical acumen and physical strength. This victory was her second in the New York City Marathon, solidifying her reputation as a top competitor in the field. Scaroniโs significant lead throughout the race was a testament to her well-executed race plan.
The menโs race saw an exciting victory from Abdi Nageeye of the Netherlands, who finished in 2 hours, 7 minutes, and 39 seconds. Nageeyeโs triumph made history as he became the first Dutch runner to win this event. His strategic surge in the final miles set him apart from the pack, demonstrating his tactical racing and impressive stamina, especially under the cool conditions of the day.
In the womenโs race, Sheila Chepkirui of Kenya claimed the title with a time of 2 hours, 25 minutes, and 48 seconds. Her steady, fast pace kept her ahead of the competition for most of the race, and the cool weather appeared to work in her favor. Chepkiruiโs performance was marked by consistency and focus, underscoring her place as a formidable athlete in the marathon scene.
The cool weather, while challenging for some runners, provided optimal conditions for those prepared to embrace it. The lower temperatures reduced fatigue and allowed athletes like Chepkirui and Nageeye to maintain their pace throughout the course. This aspect added a strategic element to the race, influencing how athletes approached the competition and managed their energy.
The marathon route, known for its iconic stretches through city neighborhoods and the final push into Central Park, brought out the best in the participants. Photographs from the day captured the determination and resilience on the faces of runners and wheelchair racers as they pressed forward, undeterred by the chill in the air. The atmosphere was electric, with crowds lining the streets to offer encouragement despite the cold.
Throughout the event, the spirit of the marathon was evident not just in the athletes but in the support from volunteers and spectators. The shared sense of excitement and community resonated along the route, making it clear that the race was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of strength and human willpower. The cheer of supporters was felt at every mile, providing motivation for each participant.
Capturing these powerful moments was as rewarding as witnessing the races themselves. The grit shown by the competitors, from the wheelchair racers powering uphill to the elite runners sprinting to the finish, made for a compelling narrative of resilience. Each photograph told a story of struggle, triumph, and the culmination of months of preparation.
The 2024 New York City Marathon ended with winners like Romanchuk, Scaroni, Nageeye, and Chepkirui standing as symbols of hard work and dedication. Their performances added another chapter to the rich history of the marathon, inspiring countless others who aim to one day race through the streets of New York City and experience their own moment of victory.
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Photographs captured by Sal Sayed
Photographs capture by Chia-Ta Tsai