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World-renowned race will operate at 60% of typical participant field
√ COVID-19 health & safety guidelines in place for participants, event staff
Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Monday announced the TCS New York City Marathon will return for its 50th running this year, on Nov. 7. The race will operate at 60% of its usual participant field for a total of 33,000 runners.
This landmark marathon is being planned with COVID-19 health guidelines, which are subject to change as the public health conditions change. As of now, the race's health protocols include staggered start times, social distancing, masks, and health screenings to ensure the race operates in the safest way possible. Registration is expected to open Tuesday, June 8.
"In 2019, the New York City marathon broke records to become the world's largest marathon ever," Cuomo said. "While canceling the race was the right choice in 2020, we are excited to welcome runners back to our beautiful city. New Yorkers worked hard to flatten the curve after the COVID-19 outbreak, and it is that work that allows us to bring back this iconic event for its 50th running."
A press release stated, “As public health conditions change over the coming months, the TCS New York City Marathon will adapt and adhere to applicable protocols – such as social distancing, masks, health screening and cleaning and disinfection, where necessary – to provide a safe and successful race. In addition to reduced capacity, other health and safety protocols are planned to be in effect for participants, event staff and volunteers to maximize social distancing, reduce touchpoints and contacts, promote communication, and promote health and well-being.”
The current TCS New York City Marathon health and safety plan reflects:
√ Staggered start times between runners based on pace, space, and release timing over several additional hours
√ Appropriate social distancing at all times, including before and after the race, except for members of the same household or family
√ Required masks at all times for event staff and volunteers. Runners will wear masks before and after the race
√ Mandated health screening of participants, event staff and volunteers, which may include proof of full vaccination status or recent negative test result
√ Start and finish lines will be controlled access for participants, event staff, and volunteers; a limited number of spectators may be permitted at the finish line, in accordance with health and safety guidelines
√ Modified race day activities to reduce any unnecessary congregations including prepackaged amenities, no baggage service, no public-facing awards ceremony, and limited on-site entertainment
Race Director Ted Metellus said, "This will be an unprecedented and historic year for the TCS New York City Marathon as one of the most iconic New York sporting events makes its return. As we stage a safe and memorable race for the 50th running, this year's marathon will showcase our great city's strength, inspiration, and determination."
NYRR Interim CEO Kerin Hempel said, "At NYRR, we are looking forward to once again being part of New York City's comeback story. We can't wait to welcome the global running community to our city, and to experience the incredible energy that radiates along the streets of New York on Marathon Sunday."
Additional TCS New York City Marathon details will be available here.