The World’s Borough celebrated runners at the halfway mark of the largest marathon in the world.
On Sunday, Nov. 2, thousands of Queens residents and spectators filled the streets of Long Island City with enthusiasm and cheers for the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon. Cowbells, stadium horns, and rhythmic beats from Fogo Azul NYC energized the atmosphere, providing a boost to marathoners approaching the challenging Queensboro Bridge section.
Numerous Queens-based running clubs, including Run HUSTLE Run, Queens Distance Runners (QDR), Forest Park Runners, Woodside-Sunnyside Runners, AWSTARS (Asian Women Stay Running), Hellgate Road Runners, World’s Fair Run Crew, and Wolf Runners of Queens, gathered to support participants as they journeyed towards the Central Park finish line.
The animated crowd was there to reinvigorate marathoners with energy gels, digestible carbs, hydrating fluids, pain-relieving products, and warm embraces. Long Island City brimmed with empowerment for the resilient runners, continuing a tradition across the five boroughs to encourage marathoners to conquer 26.2 miles.
Ronnie Colborn, who moved to New York City two and a half years ago, emphasized the importance of community by joining QDR with her roommate. “Being able to stand and cheer with people that I know and help build community for is really special,” Colborn said.
Andrew Chin, a Westchester County native and Flushing resident, described the marathon distance as “one of his passions.” Through the New York Road Runners (NYRR) 9+1 Program, he secured his entry for next year’s marathon. “I’ve loved the energy and the ability to meet so many new people and how inclusive the sport is,” Chin said. “The New York City Marathon embodies all that energy.”
Chin also cheered on his friends at the marathon, motivated to “run it next year” after completing the NYRR 9+1 Program. “Running a marathon shows the testament of all the hard work I put in,” he added.
The vibrance of the Queens neighborhood showcased the power of community in spectator sports. The marathoners embodied the spirit of The World’s Borough — a never-quitting attitude until the dream is achieved.
According to a press release, an estimated 59,226 runners completed the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, breaking the record for the world’s largest marathon for the second straight year. Among them, 18,660 hailed from 132 countries. Queens resident Karen Bdera finished in seven hours, 49 minutes and 54 seconds. Ceil Witherspoon, a Long Island City native, completed it in 12 hours, 45 minutes and 25 seconds.
For more information on the TCS New York City Marathon, visit nyrr.org/tcsnycmarathon.
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