When it comes to marathons, both the New York City Marathon and the London Marathon are considered some of the most prestigious in the world. But which one is older?

The London Marathon actually predates the New York City Marathon, having been first run in 1981. Organized by former Olympic champion Chris Brasher and athlete John Disley, the London Marathon quickly became one of the most popular marathons in the world. The inaugural race had 7,747 runners and finished at Buckingham Palace, with American Dick Beardsley and Norwegian Inge Simonsen crossing the finish line hand-in-hand in a dramatic tie.

On the other hand, the New York City Marathon was first held in 1970, making it slightly younger than its London counterpart. The race was organized by Fred Lebow and Vince Chiappetta and had just 127 entrants, with only 55 runners crossing the finish line. Over the years, the New York City Marathon has grown in size and popularity, with over 50,000 runners now participating annually.

Both marathons have their own unique characteristics and challenges. The London Marathon takes place in April and features a mostly flat course that passes by iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace. In contrast, the New York City Marathon is held in November and winds through all five boroughs of the city, with runners crossing five bridges and finishing in Central Park.

Despite their age difference, both marathons have a rich history and attract elite runners and recreational athletes from around the world. The London Marathon is known for its vibrant atmosphere and enthusiastic crowds, while the New York City Marathon offers a challenging course with stunning views of the city skyline.

In conclusion, while the London Marathon is older than the New York City Marathon, both races have become iconic events in the world of long-distance running. Whether you prefer the historic streets of London or the bustling neighborhoods of New York City, both marathons offer a unique and unforgettable experience for runners of all levels.

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