On a cold and windy day in New York City, two Kenyans crossed the finish line to dominate wins at the infamous New York City Marathon, on Sunday. Mary Keitany, 32, is petite but fierce, as she ran to a photo finish in her first American marathon in NYC. The athlete had previously taken two top finishes at London marathons and crossed the ocean to arrive in New York. She was running on par with fellow Kenyan Jemina Jelagat Sumgong, 29, but burst through to complete the marathon in two hours, 25 minutes and seven seconds. That was just three seconds faster than Sumgong.
For Kenyan Wilson Kipsang, the fierce winds were not going to hold him down. In his very first marathon in NYC, Kipsang claimed victory in the winners circle in just two hours, 10 minutes and 59 seconds.
More than 50,000 competitors arrived for the running and wheelchair marathon. The Weather Channel had issued an advisory on the wind, but that did nothing to dampen the mood of the race, or the competition streaking in competitors. The city prepared for the busy race by planting 4,000 police officers around the parameter to guide traffic and monitor crowds.
The winds became an extra barrier for runners who had to battle to maintain their pace, making a race that is already grueling, more so. Their determination across the board was honored as well wishers gathered and hugged each person crossing the finish line.
The NYC Marathon encompasses over 26 miles, and numerous streets and bridges were closed in anticipation of the race.
Spectators gathered in acceptable locations and kept the runners motivated, especially when they hit areas not protected by buildings and came into full contact with the brutal, cold winds. The course began at Staten Island and continued through Brooklyn, Manhattan and completed in Central Park.
The NYC Marathon is a hub of energy from professional runners to recreational joggers. It was introduced back in 1970 when 127 participants ran four laps around Central Park. It has become one of the largest and well known marathons in history.