It is difficult to describe the thrill of running the streets of New York with 43,000 other runners and hundreds of thousands of cheering spectators. The run started in Staten Island to Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” blaring from loud speakers and then crossed into Brooklyn via the Verrazano Narrows Bridge. It was a hoot running through the many ethnic neighborhoods with live music on almost every corner. We then ran briefly through Queens and then into Manhattan across the Queensboro Bridge. This was my favorite part of the race as the crowds were huge and very enthusiastic and the point where I need it most. After a short jaunt through the Bronx, we came back into Manhattan, into Central Park and the finish line. What a thrill!

This was my eighth marathon and, although it was not my fastest, it was the most enjoyable given the overall experience of being part of the MWCT team and running in this great city. My finishing time was 3:38, which is about where I had hoped to be.

However, my favorite part of the marathon weekend was getting a chance to meet the three Maasai runners and to participate in a “blessing of the warriors” ceremony on Saturday night. I really enjoyed talking to Samson, Parashi and Sunte and especially liked hearing them talk about David Blaine’s magic. I only wish that I could have been there to see their reactions first hand.

Many thanks to my AECOM teammates for helping to make this an unforgettable experience. I am proud of the amount of money we raised to support the MWCT. Special thanks to those who sponsored me as the money is going to a great cause. It is not too late to donate if you have not already done so.

One final note: I was passed by a guy dressed like a banana at about mile 20. I don’t think I was hallucinating but I can’t be sure. How humiliating!

Dan