I cannot even begin to tell you how epic this race is. 

If you are even considering it, do it. 

I ran here as my first marathon in 2015...I know, I know, spoiled. They treat you like a superstar. I was chosen to represent GB in the parade of nations on Friday night before Marathon Sunday. I honestly felt like i was marching in the Olympic Opening Ceremony.

Expo - its HUGE. And busy. But there is some lovely kit. The race shirt was a long sleeve, its lovely and still my favourite (reviewing in 2017!)

The race itself - well, its a challenge getting over 50,000 runners onto an Island off the edge of NYC for the start eh? But they manage it. 2015 I took the bus. You get there EARLY on the bus.  But the queue is brilliantly organised.  Bus journey takes about an hour and you get a CHiPs style escort! Once on Staten Island they provide you with food and water and tea and coffee.  And more portaloos than I have EVER seen. I did not queue once. 

The race itself is an unbelievably amazing experience. The crowds out supporting, the signs, the cheering.  It's almost overwhelming.  The bridges provide 5 patches of peace and quiet; and some amazing views over the city.   I was wave 4 start in 2015, started at 11am. The support where still there long after I finished (I have friedns who finished slower and confirm this)  People says the course is crowded; and it is.  But I have run HMs in th UK where I have felt much more hemmed and and I found I could run my own race with no trouble. 

Afterwards - medal, apple (best apple EVER) and loads of food/drink in a nice reuseable bag.   Heat sheet - which they tape on to you so you don't even have to hold it. Its the little things. Medics and spotters everytwhere making sure you are ok. And more photographers than you can shake a stick at.  In 2015 I did bag drop.  I'd recommend you don't do this. Its a very long walk to get out of the park and you gain nothing as there's nowhere to change into your dry clothes. SO unless you have something you absolutely must have post race, get the poncho. 

Medal Monday - the race pavillion is open, selling finisher stuff, the New York Times (marathon monday special with a list of finishers up to a certain cut off) and souvenirs.  Then you get to walk round NYC wearing your medal, getting high fives and congratulations from perfect strangers and eating all that American food.

Like I said, do it.