They hit the ground running!
More than 27,000 runners wound their way through the borough for the Airbnb Brooklyn Half Marathon on May 20. The race sliced through eight neighborhoods and exposed runners to some lesser-known nabes. Even Brooklyn-born joggers discovered new bits of the borough, said one runner.
“It forced me to slow down and actually look at all the neighborhoods,” said Carnise native David Yung who runs for fun and clocked a respectable 2:09:09. “I’m used to driving around, so I really got to experience the neighborhoods and see them change. It was awesome.”
The 13.1-mile run kicked off in Prospect Heights and raced down to Coney Island’s Boardwalk where thousands cheered the runners in an over-the-top extravaganza packed with live music, stilt walkers tricked out in hand-made costumes by Modern Gypsies Productions, and a post-run party on the field of MCU Park.
Runners trekked from Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and as far away as Texas to burn rubber in Brooklyn. Some joined in for kicks with friends, one couple took the chance to tie the knot, and for some it was another notch on their belt to help qualify for the big kahuna — the New York City Marathon.
“I heard it was a great race and I’m trying to fulfill the requirements so I can make it into the New York City Marathon,” said Emily Taddei, from the distant borough of Queens. “It was so cool, and I love running by the ocean in general, so it was fun to finish at the Boardwalk.”
After crossing the finish line, the athletes indulged in classic Coney antics with a spin on the Wonder Wheel, a dip in the water, and a Nathan’s Famous hot dog.
“I know it kind of defeats the purpose but I ate, like, three hot dogs afterward,” said Greenpoint resident Ray Simon. “Why not indulge a little after an accomplishment like that?”
