Bowing to the rising tide of criticism about their decision to go forward with this Sunday’s ING New York City Marathon in the savage wake of Hurricane Sandy, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and NYRR President and CEO Mary Wittenberg have now cancelled the event.
Joint statement:
“The Marathon has been an integral part of New York City’s life for 40 years and is an event tens of thousands of New Yorkers participate in and millions more watch. While holding the race would not require diverting resources from the recovery effort, it is clear that it has become the source of controversy and division. The marathon has always brought our city together and inspired us with stories of courage and determination. We would not want a cloud to hang over the race or its participants, and so we have decided to cancel it. We cannot allow a controversy over an athletic event — even one as meaningful as this — to distract attention away from all the critically important work that is being done to recover from the storm and get our city back on track. The New York Road Runners will have additional information in the days ahead for participants.”
There will be a news briefing at 6:00 PM at 67th and Central Park West/NYRR Media Center
More as developing…
WANDERING IN A RUNNING WORLD 
The NYRR and ING are donating a large sum to the recovery (I think I heard $1.5M) along with food and supplies. I believe the rented tents and generators will also be deployed. I hope it is also possible to efficiently mobilize race volunteers and runners this weekend…..imagine the positive impact of that number of people! Its a huge undertaking to organize volunteers on such short notice, but if anyone can do it, New York can!
A great call on Bloomberg’s part. Now utilize Central Park Finish Line Staging Area a Relief Area for those in need. Over food clothing and water are there for over 40,000 people. Coordinate with the NYC Emergency Management Center for the logistical needs. Imagine what 40,000 Heat sheets can do for the folks without power as yet another storm ventures their way. Now for the Expo, OK Nike and othe retailers just do it and donate the items to the effort. Yes use the Expo as yet another emergency relief site. Everything was transported there now get it out to those who really need it. The good will and reputation of he NYC Marathon and NYRRC will be enhanced 10 fold. Fred Lebow would be smiling at the feat. NYC came together to make the marathon happen now the Marathon can help pull the city back together along with their neighbors in NJ and CT. The resources are there from the event and sponsors so let’s send it to the right place there is no need to save anything for next year the need is immediate.
Kudos to the mayor for making the right decision, finally…