The Legacy of the New York City Marathon

By 1976, in celebration of America’s Bicentennial, the race expanded to all five boroughs, transforming it into one of the most iconic marathons in the world. Runners now travel through Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan—an unforgettable 26.2-mile journey.
Over the years, it’s become more than just a race—it’s a global celebration of perseverance, diversity, and unity.

Getting In: Lottery & Charity Entry Options

With over 100,000 applicants and 50,000+ finishers each year, getting a bib for the NYC Marathon isn’t easy—and that’s where the entry systems come in:

General Entry Lottery

• Conducted by NYRR, the lottery gives runners a random chance to earn a spot.
• Divided into three applicant pools (U.S., NYC metro area, and international), improving geographic representation.

Time Qualifiers

• Runners with certified fast marathon or half marathon times can bypass the lottery if they meet strict time standards.

Charity Entry Program

• One of the most popular ways in: run for a charity partner.
• Runners raise funds (usually between $2,500–$5,000) for organizations like Team for Kids, American Cancer Society, and hundreds more.
• Charity runners get guaranteed entry and often receive coaching support, race gear, and VIP perks on race weekend.

Whether through grit, speed, or goodwill, there’s a path for every determined runner to reach that New York finish line.

Celebrate the Journey: Gone For a Run NYC Marathon Collection

Whether you got in through the lottery, ran for charity, or are chasing that finish line in the future, the Gone For a Run NYC Collection has everything you need to commemorate the miles and memories:

Running Premier Frame – NYC 26.2 Route

• A stunning shadow-box-style photo frame that features a detailed NYC course map and a spot for your favorite 4x6" race photo.
• Perfect for showcasing your big moment—from the Verrazzano Bridge to Central Park’s finish.

Socrates® Performance Socks – NYC 26.2

• Moisture-wicking, low-cut performance socks with built-in inspiration and NYC-themed graphics.
• A comfortable and meaningful gift for any marathoner.

Apparel & Accessories

• Route-themed tees, hoodies, and tank tops
• Functional headbands, hats, and even NYC 26.2 medal holders
• All crafted for runners by runners—with thoughtful details that honor the spirit of the race.

Why These Make Great Race Gifts

• Celebrate the journey—no matter how you earned your spot.
• Functional and meaningful—wear the gear on your next run or hang the frame on your wall for a lifetime reminder.
• Thoughtful and high-quality—perfect for gifting to runners or treating yourself after 26.2 tough, amazing miles.

Final Thought

Whether you got in on your first try or waited years for your chance to run NYC… whether you ran for yourself or for a cause that mattered deeply… the New York City Marathon is more than a race. It’s a triumph of heart, hustle, and community.

And Gone For a Run’s NYC Marathon Collection is here to help you celebrate every part of that journey.

Shop the NYC Collection »