Columbus Circle, New York —

Leaving the serenity of the Conservatory Garden behind, we’re back on the race course for the grand finale. It is a lovely stretch that trots past the Guggenheim, behind the Met and flows through a perfectly autumnal Central Park. I hope that these folks are able to enjoy it.

Though the leaders were long ago crowned and have probably finished up most of their TV interviews, you can see that a good deal of the 42,000 participants are still working on it. It is my first marathon and I was surprised to see that many runners have their names plastered in large letters across their chests. It seemed pretty vain to me. “Look at me! Big, cool guy named Hank, running in the big important race!” Then I realized that this is a tool that allows the crowd to shout out encouragement and we quickly joined in. I tell you, if I were out there, I’d need all the help I could get.

It’s another hour before we make it to Columbus Circle where they have thoughtfully erected a giant screen so that the runners have physical proof (besides all that pain) that they are indeed about to finish the race.

I think that the sign below must be one of the most beautiful sights in all the world. I cannot imagine covering 26.2 miles in 2 hours 19 minutes, 4 hours 22 minutes or 13 hours 55 minutes. I would tackle this course with a three day strategy and a list of the great restaurants that line the way.

From a spectator’s point of view, I have to rank this event far above the Giro d’Italia which captivated me for a little over a minute. A ramble from Harlem to Columbus circle is worthwhile on any day but on race day its a unique treat. My sincere thanks to those 42,000 that made it possible.