NYC Marathon will help the city recover: Mayor
2011 NYC Marathon. (Patrick E. McCarthy) Credit: 2011 NYC Marathon. (Patrick E. McCarthy)
Despite the havoc caused by Hurricane Sandy, the New York City Marathon will go on - but with a stripped-down feel.
There will be no opening ceremony Friday, and Saturday's NYRR Dash to the Finish Line 5K was also canceled. The marathon's cancellation policy is also modified to allow runners who cannot compete because of the storm to become eligible for a guaranteed spot in the 2013 race.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg said that going forward with the marathon is part of getting the city back on track.
"This city is a city where we have to go on," Bloomberg said, adding that the marathon won't "redirect any focus."
"By Sunday we'll have electricity back downtown. That will free up an enormous number of police," he said. "Also, a lot of the transportation needs that we have during the week aren't there on the weekends."
Still, not everyone was appeased.
"I understand that the NYC marathon gives hotels and restaurants a nice boost, but it's not worth it, race needs to be postponed," tweeted Sirius SM radio host Chris "Mad Dog."
Snow totals may be less across the South Shore A winter storm is expected to pummel LI as artic air settles in across the region. NewsdayTV meteorologist Geoff Bansen has the forecast.
Snow totals may be less across the South Shore A winter storm is expected to pummel LI as artic air settles in across the region. NewsdayTV meteorologist Geoff Bansen has the forecast.
