As a runner of three years, this was my first New York City Marathon, not as a competitor, but as a friend + team member.

Central Park South, last mile of the TCS NYC Marathon 2015

One of the world’s biggest marathons, the TCS New York City Marathon, and this past November 1st marked its 45th anniversary! This marathon kicks off at the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge in Staten Island into Brooklyn, across the Pulaski Bridge into Queens, over the Queensboro Bridge into Manhattan, all while getting a glimpse of the South Bronx before finishing at Central Park. Although, I was not among those running the marathon, as an active member of the running community, and my amazing team, LIC Runners, I had many teammates and friends embarking on the challenge. The long 26.2 miles is no easy feat for anyone to accomplish but with hard work + dedication anything is possible!

Mimoza running the TCS NYC Marathon 2015

It was so exciting when my teammate Mimoza asked me to pace her, for many reasons. First, I had never paced anyone during a race before. A pacer in the running world is someone who sets the speed and minutes-per-mile. Ideally, the runner will keep up in order to realize their time-goals for the race. Mimoza and I coordinated to meet around mile 19 and I was tracking her all along with the TCS New York City Marathon app. Second, this was the first NYC marathon I was ever going to be able to witness. Not only did I witness the big race, but also, I was able to jump in and for a couple of miles and feel first-hand what all the excitement is about. The energy is so contagious that it made me want to run 20 more miles! Finally, being the support system for my friend during her last five miles really showed me what teamwork is all about + how important it is to help others reach their goals! Catch me at the 2016 TCS New York City Marathon!

Pro Women at the TCS NYC Marathon 2015 in Long Island City

Pro Men at the TCS NYC Marathon 2015 in Spanish Harlem