Around 10,000 runners took to the wet streets of Staten Island on Saturday for the New York Road Runners Staten Island Half Marathon.
Runners and spectators braved the rain for the 13.1-mile race, which brought together athletes of all experience levels and abilities.
For many runners, crossing the starting line was an accomplishment in itself after months of training and overcoming challenges. Others were taking part for the first time, drawn in by the atmosphere and the running community.
The race also featured athletes who compete using their arms, including members of Prevailers Racing.
“It’s hard work. Very hard work in the bikes,” said Trisa Harris of Prevailers Racing. “People think it’s easy because we’re doing it with our arms, oh no.”
The course began at Bay Street and Slosson Terrace and traveled 13.1 miles along Staten Island’s eastern shore, passing Fort Wadsworth and several of the borough’s parks.
The first athlete crossed the finish line in 1 hour and 4 seconds, averaging a 4-minute, 56-second mile pace.
Ted Metellus, New York Road Runners’ chief event production officer, said the growth of running clubs and families getting healthier together are among the reasons every race is a victory.
“Watching the communities grow, watching the number of run clubs and crews grow, family and friends that are getting healthier together, spectators that you see here that are cheering on runners … it’s a nice precursor for what we’ll see on November 1,” Metellus said.
Saturday’s half marathon was the final race organized by New York Road Runners before the New York City Marathon on Nov. 1.
Some runners were also hoping the race would help them qualify for the full marathon.