The NYC Marathon is poised to surpass its own participation record with about 60,000 finishers and over two million spectators along a five-borough course. A surge in applicants (over 240,000 from 160 countries) and a growing running culture driven by Gen Z and social media characterize this year’s event. Organisers aim to raise $100 million as the course spans Staten Island to Central Park, with elite and amateur runners sharing the spotlight.