Amby Burfoot from Runner’s World writes a thoughtful essay on the aftermath of the cancellation of the New York Marathon. I thought it would go on, should go on, but I don’t live there and was not running New York. I understand some of the reasons for why it eventually was cancelled at the last minute, but not some of strong emotion behind those against the initial decision.
I think the decision to cancel came a little late; if there was any doubt, cancel it earlier, rather than in the middle of the anti-runner sentiment that arose after Mayor Bloomberg said to proceed with the event. The ramifications of the cancellation next year and beyond for all runners will be huge. Those who showed up in New York from elsewhere, especially outside the US, must feel somewhat angry and disappointed. Hopefully the anti-runner sentiment will not bleed over into other events.
