2009 NYC Half-Marathon Event Photos

August 16, 2009 [Complete Coverage]

The warmest NYC Half-Marathon on record saw 10,171 finishers make the journey from Central Park to Battery Park by way of Times Square and the West Side Highway. Top professional athletes from around the world led the way, and the sights and sounds of the world’s most dynamic city offered inspiration along the course.
A “Tunnel of Kids” representing NYRR Youth Services division welcomed the invited athletes.	American marathon record-holder and Olympic medalist Deena Kastor acknowledged cheers.	The lead runners tensed with anticipation as they awaited the starter’s horn.	Off and running, more than 10,000 strong!
At least one runner had her own very personal cheering section.	After a loop of the park, the route headed south on Seventh Avenue…	…and through the heart of Manhattan, Times Square.	NYRR Young Runners members were out in force to cheer on the runners.
Cheerleaders from Cheer NY kept spirits high with their rousing support.	Running through car-free city streets made every runner feel like a winner.	You couldn’t help but pump your fists to the beat of the NYC Half!	For the second-straight year, the Times Square Sing-Along was a hit.
The skyscrapers of Midtown provided welcome shade from the morning sun.	Rounding the Toyota Turn to the Finish, runners had about four miles to go.	The crowd support continued as runners completed four flat miles on the West Side Highway.	The buildings of Lower Manhattan told runners that the finish was finally approaching.
Run with a view: The last few miles of the course afforded a glimpse of the Hudson River.	Marathon world record-holder of Great Britain Paula Radcliffe triumphed in 1:09:45.	Ethiopia’s Tadese Tola defended his 2008 NYC Half title.	WABC TV’s Heidi Jones, an avid distance runner, finished in 1:48:27.
Runners replenished carbs and fluids in the post-finish area.	Every finisher received a medal for a job well done.	The post-race festival in Battery Park featured dancers from around the world.	The top three finishers displayed their nations’ flags in a victory celebration.
Third-place finisher Catherine Ndereba greeted supporters after her finish.	The sun shone brightly during the awards presentations.	Top finishers showed their appreciation by tossing their bouquets into the crowd.	Radcliffe celebrated her seventh win in a New York City road race.
Team for Kids About 300 members of Team for Kids (TFK), a group of adult runners who raise funds for NYRR youth running programs, ran the NYC Half.