New York City Marathon organizers said they are moving ahead with their plans to run the race scheduled for Sunday, but in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, they understand the need to make any adjustments that will best serve the city.
When asked if one of those adjustments includes postponing the 26.2-mile race and moving it back from Sunday, a race organizer was noncommittal.
“This is a very challenging time for the people and City of New York. The City is rightfully focused on assessment, restoration and recovery. At NYRR, we stand with our City agency partners and support their efforts,’’ said New York Road Runners president and CEO Mary Wittenberg, who also serves as race director. “The Marathon has always been a special day for New Yorkers as a symbol of the vitality and resiliency of this City. NYRR continues to move ahead with its planning and preparation. We will keep all options open.’’
Nearly 20,000 amateur international runners need to get into the country.
Yesterday, it was unclear when all public transit, river crossings and airports would reopen.
The marathon pours an estimated $350 million into the city each year. But it also requires major support from city agencies that are being strained by the storm.
The route through the five boroughs mostly avoids areas considered at highest risk for flooding and doesn’t run through lower Manhattan, which experienced significant flooding.