NEW YORK — The TCS New York City Marathon will return to full capacity this fall after being canceled in 2020 and limited last November because of coronavirus concerns, organizers said Thursday.
The race – regarded as the world’s largest marathon – will celebrate its 51st running on Nov. 6 with a field of 50,000 runners.
“Every year, runners from all over the world come to New York City because there’s no better race than the New York City Marathon,” Mayor Eric Adams said.
“This race is the strongest proof of New York’s unrelenting spirit and determination.”
In 2021, the race had a modified field of 25,010 finishers, all of whom were required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.
This year, all participants will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to New York Road Runners, which operates the marathon. It remains unclear what the requirements will be for spectators.
Event organizers are also hoping to bring back on-course entertainment and other elements that will help return the marathon back to its former standard.
“Last year’s marathon served as an uplifting and unifying moment for New York City’s recovery as well as a symbol of renewed hope, inspiration, and perseverance,” race director Ted Metellus said.
New York Road Runners will open an entry drawing for runners at noon on March 9. The application window will close on March 23.
If runners do not receive entry through the drawing, they can still register to run with various charities associated with the marathon, such as Run for NYRR Team for Kids.
Participants who were set to run in the canceled 2020 race and selected to take part in the 2022 race instead are eligible for a guaranteed, complimentary entry.