NYC In Focus

The Heartbeat of a City: My Lens on the Record-Breaking NYC Half Marathon

Published by

Howard Weiss

on

New York City, March 16, 2025

From the moment the first wave surged forward at 7:20 a.m. from Washington Avenue near the Brooklyn Museum, the energy was electric. Through Prospect Park, the diverse stream of runners, a tapestry of colors and determined strides, pushed onward. Each runner carried a personal story, a journey of countless training miles culminating in this challenging 13.1-mile trek through the heart of NYC.

A male runner in a blue shirt and black shorts runs past a female runner wearing a Statue of Liberty hat, during a road race. Spectators and a blue and white sponsor banner are visible in the background.
A smiling woman wearing a white shirt with a photo and the word “Grandma” participates in a marathon, holding a piece of food. Other runners and spectators are visible in the background, set against a backdrop of trees and a partially visible American flag.

This year’s course held a special significance, making history for the NYC Half. For the very first time, approximately 27,000 runners abandoned the usual Manhattan Bridge crossing to make their way over the majestic Brooklyn Bridge. Exam

A woman in a marathon-branded thermal blanket receives aid from a volunteer near a SeniorCare ambulance. Another volunteer assists.

Once in Manhattan, the course truly became a quintessential New York experience. Runners pounded along the FDR Drive, then turned onto East 42nd Street, leading them into one of the race’s most exhilarating sections: running through Times Square. This vibrant intersection, usually choked with traffic, was open exclusively to the athletes, a surreal tunnel of dazzling billboards and roaring cheers. It’s a privilege to photograph such an iconic space transformed by the raw energy of competition.

A shirtless man with chest tattoos displays his NYC Half Marathon medal, holding a red phone while other runners and spectators are blurred in the background. The scene is outdoors, likely post-race.

The final stretch led up Seventh Avenue and into Central Park, culminating in the finish line between West 67th and West 68th streets. Here, the raw emotion of accomplishment erupted. Exhaustion gave way to elation as runners crossed the threshold, their personal victories celebrated by roaring crowds. It was a day of breaking barriers, both personal and historical. Defending men’s champion Abel Kipchumba of Kenya set a new event record with a time of 59:09, becoming only the second runner to win back-to-back. Sharon Lokedi of Kenya also made history in the professional women’s race, setting a new event record of 1:07:04.

A woman smiles and gives a thumbs-up, having completed a race; she wears a purple shirt with a race bib; other runners blur in the background.
Runners participate in a road race, many wearing vibrant clothing. A digital clock displays race time. Spectators and race officials are visible in the background.

As a press photographer, I strive to capture not just the event, but the human spirit at its core. The United Airlines NYC Half Marathon is a powerful reminder of how dedication, perseverance, and the collective energy of a city can create something truly unforgettable. It’s about every stride, every breath, every shared moment of challenge and triumph.

For more of my photography of this incredible event and to explore my wider portfolio, please visit my Shutterstock page: https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Howard+Weiss?rid=422275801 You can also find more of my NYC-related blog posts and photography on my Instagram: @youfoundhowie

What was your favorite moment or spot along the NYC Half Marathon route today? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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