Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Dwight Williams (212) 788-2972
"With participants from all 50 states and 103 countries, the New York City Marathon is truly an international affair," Mayor Giuliani said. "The marathon is a reflection of the great City through which it is run. The success and popularity of this wonderful event is a tribute to Fred Lebow -- the man whose determination made the New York City Marathon into the great tradition that it is today."
Last year's marathon, the coldest in history, was won for the second year in a row by male runner German Silva and female runner Tegla Loroupe. This year's race marks the 20th anniversary of the "modern" five borough marathon. WPIX-TV Channel 11 will broadcast the marathon live from 9am to 2pm, this Sunday, November 3. Logistical information about the marathon can also be found on the World Wide Web at the New York City Marathon Home Page.
On September 13, 1970, New York Road Runners Club president Vince Chiappetta and entrepreneur Fred Lebow staged the inaugural New York City Marathon in Central Park. The 127 runners, who paid a $1 entry fee, raced the 26 miles through the park with no water stops. By 1976, a decision was made to create a five-borough marathon which would showcase the City's many diverse neighborhoods.