NYRR 50th Anniversary Run

Nearly 2,000 runners stepped off the starting line in the pre-dawn rain at the NYRR 50th Anniversary Run in Central Park on June 4, 2008.

The race celebrated the founding of NYRR on June 4, 1958. Known then as the Road Runners Club–New York Association, the group had about 40 members.

Could our founders have imagined a world in which thousands of runners of all ages and fitness levels cheerfully logged five fast miles before breakfast?

Each participant became a part of history in a race that honored the dedication of runners by waiving the entry fee.

The rain may have soaked sneakers, but it didn’t dampen runners’ desire to start the day with a quick spin around the park.

It’s all about just getting out there, isn’t it?

Karl Dusen of the Brooks-Manhattan Track Club broke the tape in 26:15…

…and Ana Segura of Manhattan was the women’s champion, stopping the clock at 30:20.

Some of the top men’s open finishers enjoyed a bit of camaraderie after their five sub-6:00 miles in the rain.

Though NYRR has always welcomed women, the original roster was all male. NYRR’s membership is now 47 percent female.

The New York Flyers, one of the area’s largest clubs, had 52 finishers in the race.

As in 1958, road racing in 2008 is a great way to spend time with friends.

As the rain eased up, finishers lingered over post-race refreshments. They’d still be on time for their 9:00 meetings.

There was a satisfying “5” in the day’s running log—and it was still only 6:15 a.m.

Fierce competitors on the course, fast friends at the finish: That’s the spirit of running. Here’s to the next 50 years.

For half a century, volunteers have kept NYRR running, and today was no exception. Give them a big “Thanks!” at your next race.