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Running, Then Crutching the New York City Marathon
New York City, the city that never sleeps, is renowned for its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and iconic landmarks. However, it’s also home to one of the world’s most iconic marathons: the New York City Marathon. Join me on my journey as I laced up my running shoes, hit the pavement, and took on the five boroughs first on two feet and then on crutches.
What Inspired Me to Run the New York Marathon
Running had always been a part of my life, but the idea of running a marathon or any race seemed distant. That was until a serendipitous moment outside Central Park, waiting for my sister as she shopped for diapers for her new baby. I witnessed two women strolling out of the park, donned in pink and black tutus, running shoes, and race bibs. It hit me – running could be elegant, fun, and playful. Inspired by this newfound perspective, I signed up for my first half marathon the following spring, making a goal to run a full marathon by my 40th birthday. It took a little longer, as it often does, and I achieved it at the age of 42.
Setting goals for myself has always been a driving force. My initial New York running goal was simple – to run in Central Park. The mere thought of traveling there and lacing up my shoes filled me with exhilaration. But that was just the fist goal.
How I Secured My Spot in the New York Marathon
My next aspiration was to run the New York Marathon, but it was easier said than done. I entered the lottery seven times without success. It wasn’t until I participated in the virtual marathon during the height of the pandemic that I finally won an entry to run the following year in 2021.
The excitement was palpable. I trained tirelessly and had a caravan of supportive friends and my husband by my side, ready to conquer this race. It felt like coming full circle, racing in the very city that had sparked my desire to participate in races and foster a deep love for the sport.
Finishing the New York Marathon - But Not on Two Feet
As the race began, I was in high spirits and having a fantastic time. The atmosphere and the fans were electric. However, by mile eight I felt like I needed to stretch. My leg just didn’t feel right. On Mile 17, my leg wasn’t working any longer. I couldn’t put any weight on it. Fellow runners were so kind, I was offered ice and pain killers and support sleeves. But it was my husband came to the rescue. I rented an electric bike and found me on the course. He helped me limp along until a first responder offered me crutches (only after trying to pull me off the course). I finished those last 19 miles, my husband, and friends for many of those miles. The spectators were the best – they cheered me on – especially through the Bronx. Those ladies were the best!
I finished side-by-side with some of my closest friends, my husband, Face-time with my kids and a course volunteer who was already off shift just to encourage me those last few miles. I crossed the finish line just minutes before the course closed, and that medal felt like an extraordinary achievement.
We flew home the next day; it was log and terrible. It turned out I had a fractured tibia. I went through the recovery; I trained and was determined to run again.
Next Goal
I did run again. I ran five half marathons and nearly one full marathon in the following year – only to have my femoral neck break on mile 23.5. I didn’t finish that race. I had surgery 5 months ago and I am healing. But running is over for me. Probably forever. So… now I am a walker. In fact, I am walking the 2023 New York Marathon in just a week. My goal – finish on two feet! Wish me luck.
DISCOVER YOUR NEXT
New York Adventure.