NYC Half

The NYC Half is, in my opinion, the best running event in New York City. This year's race started off at near freezing temperature. After a mile or so, you forget the cold, but your body appreciates not being overheated. The field is limited, unlike the NY Marathon, so you stand a much better chance of running at your pace. The course is challenging, with Central Park's hills (first 8 miles in the park) being more difficult than people might expect. Emerging from the park, heading south down 7th Avenue, then west on 42nd Street builds your enthusiasm; electricity supplied by Times Square flatscreens and live running fans. When I ran the first NYC Half, which was held in August that year, hardly anyone showed to root the runners on. Now, aided by an hour later start, there's plenty of support. The last 4 miles down the west side are flat and fast. Plenty of good music along the way, too, with live bands every couple of miles. Any runner who hasn't tried this race should.