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50,000 runners from 140 nations and a finish line that smacks of achievement.
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Inducted 400 million: an event that combines sports and business.
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Average times uphill but with a clear goal: to surpass oneself.
The first Sunday in November isn’t just any day for New Yorkers and marathon fans—it’s the day of the New York City Marathon, one of the world’s most famous and scenic races. But what does this marathon look like by the numbers? How many participants show up? From how many countries? How many bananas do they eat? Okay, we won’t go that far, but here’s a breakdown of the event by its most striking stats. The New York City Marathon isn’t just a race; it’s a global icon of human endurance. It may not be the only marathon in the world, but there’s something special about New York.
1. Tens of thousands of legs from nearly 150 countries
Each year, the NYC Marathon attracts over 50,000 runners from nearly 150 countries (148, to be exact), making it the world’s largest marathon. Italy, in particular, shows up strong every year, placing second in participation after the U.S. (last year, 2,368 Italians ran). As 2017 winner Shalane Flanagan says, “It’s not just a race. It’s like running alongside the whole world, one kilometer at a time.” The international mix of cultures and backgrounds makes the race’s energy unmatched, and you can feel it throughout the city.
2. Which nation wins the most?
The U.S. leads with 35 victories, followed by Kenya with 32 and Switzerland with 16. Some of the most celebrated wins have also been the fastest, like Geoffrey Mutai’s 2011 record of 2:05:06, and the repeated victories of Mary Keitany, who won four times.
3. Over 260,000 liters of water and tons of snacks
To keep the runners going, NYC Marathon organizers distribute over 260,000 liters of water and tons of energy snacks and fresh fruit along the course. Marathon co-founder Fred Lebow once joked, “On such a long day, runners don’t just burn energy—they devour the whole city!” This logistical support is crucial to keep everyone fueled from start to finish.
4. How many medals are awarded?
Each finisher receives a medal celebrating their accomplishment. In 2019, over 53,000 medals were handed out. Lebow once said, “Getting that medal is an ode to your tenacity. It may look like just metal, but it tells a story of sweat, pain, and victory.”
5. $400 million impact
The marathon is more than just a sporting event; it’s an economic powerhouse for New York City. Generating over $400 million in revenue through tourism, dining, and hospitality, it’s a prime event for the city. “The marathon is our Super Bowl,” says a spokesperson for the New York Road Runners (NYRR). This financial impact grows each year thanks to international visitors, and the race has raised over $520 million for charity since 2006.
6. How long does it take?
While pro runners keep their times consistent, amateur finishers generally take between 4 and 5 hours. But speed isn’t everything. Katherine Switzer, the first woman to run the Boston Marathon, says, “The marathon is not just about speed. It’s about the journey. Every mile teaches you something.” Nowhere is this spirit more alive than in New York.
7. An experience like no other
The New York City Marathon is more than a race—it’s a life-changing experience. Running through the five boroughs, cheered on by local crowds, makes it unforgettable. Eliud Kipchoge put it best: “There’s no other place in the world where every step feels like an anthem.” If he says so, we can believe it.