"The Marathon is a charismatic event. It has everything. It has drama.

It has competition. It has comaraderie. It has heroism. Every jogger can't

be an olympic champion, but can dream finishing a marathon."

- Fred Lebow, Founder; 5-borough NYC Marathon.

"...and there is something fascinating about these marathoners who would

immerse themselves in no-pain, no-gain subculture in which sacrifice is a

commandment and obsession is an understatement."

- Anonymous

Each running of New York City Marathon was an unforgettable experience.

1989 was my best race because I ran intelligently and set my PR .

With determination, desire and proper training,

26.2 miles can be an enjoyable experience.

The most unique thing about New York Marathon is the festive atmosphere and the support of people on

the course. Throughout the boroughs, through all different ethenic neighbourhoods

there is not a single yard on the course where you don't find these friendly

New Yorkers. And the event of this magnitude is only possible with the help

of thousands of voluenteers. In history of these marathons, the percent of

finishers has never been less than 95%. I was always fascinated by the distance

of the race and that's how I started training (also I needed to lose weight!).

Along the way, I have learned lot more than just how to keep fit.

By the way, I am fortunate to have very understanding family who allows me

the time that is required to train. My then 5 years old daughter asked me after

my first marathon, "dad, How come it took you so long to finish?"

Recently, she has decided to try out for her highschool cross country team.

I am sure she will learn a lot from running, including importance of "to finish..

....no matter how long it takes"