The **New York City Marathon**, officially branded as the **TCS New York City Marathon**, is the world’s largest annual marathon organized by the nonprofit New York Road Runners (NYRR) since its inception in 1970[1][4][8]. Initially a modest race of 127 entrants running four laps around Central Park, it expanded in 1976 to a course traversing all five boroughs of New York City—Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan—making it a unique urban marathon experience[3][4]. The race is held every first Sunday of November and routinely attracts over 50,000 finishers, with applications exceeding 200,000 in recent years, reflecting its massive global appeal and competitiveness[1][3]. Key achievements include becoming part of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors alongside Boston and Chicago marathons, and hosting elite athletes who have set course records such as Tamirat Tola’s 2:04:58 in 2023[4]. The event also pioneered inclusivity by introducing a wheelchair division in 2000 and prize money in 2001[7]. Its 2001 edition was symbolically significant, held shortly after the September 11 attacks, representing resilience and hope for New York City[7]. The marathon’s organizational success is bolstered by a complex entry system involving a lottery, qualification standards, and guaranteed spots for dedicated NYRR members or charity fundraisers. The race is supported by thousands of volunteers, including 90 expert pacers who guide runners throughout the course[1][2]. The title sponsorship by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) since 2014 has enhanced the race experience through technology and sustainability initiatives, reflecting a strategic partnership focused on health, wellness, and innovation within the New York running community[6]. Notably, the marathon serves as a major philanthropic platform, partnering with charities like The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to enable runner