Thousands take part in Staten Island Half Marathon

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Thousands of runners flooded the streets of Staten Island on Sunday for the sold-out New York Road Runners Staten Island Half Marathon.

The event, part of the Five-Borough Series, attracted over 9,000 participants and served as a vital preparation for the upcoming TCS New York City Marathon in November.

Jeff Thies, a Brooklyn-based runner who secured fourth place, reflected on the challenging 13.1-mile course. "Man, it was, uh, it was tough," Thies said. "The, uh, around six miles, about a little before halfway you turn around and it was just into a headwind. Uh, and then there was a big hill at mile eight that into the wind is, takes a lot outta you."

A seasoned runner with 15 years of experience, Thies emphasized the importance of community in keeping him motivated. "It's incredible just to be around people that are all getting up every day, putting in work, trying to get a little better and chase their own goals," he shared.

Ted Metellus, Senior Vice President of Events and Race Director for New York Road Runners, described the event as a crucial milestone for marathon preparation. "This is it, this is your last big test, your last big run," Metellus stated. He also noted the event's popularity, saying, "This event sold out with tremendous demand of our runners and we've been seeing a demand that is unique and diverse."

Now in its 37th year, the Staten Island Half introduced new youth programming this year. Metellus explained, "We'll have over a hundred kids that are out there between the ages of two and 12 that will be participating in various activities, running, jumping, base running, and getting them active as well."

Other runners shared their enthusiasm for the event. One participant noted, "This is my third time here, the Staten Island half was my first half marathon to me so that's why it's so special." Another first-time racer added, "This is my first organized race and I decided to jump into it."

Despite his fourth-place finish, Thies remains ambitious about the upcoming New York City Marathon. When asked about aiming for first place, he responded, "That's always the goal. Um, but you know, every day is different and you just kind of get the most out of what you can that day."

The Staten Island Half Marathon serves as a critical stepping stone for runners as they prepare for the TCS New York City Marathon is November 3rd. More information can be found online on the New York Road Runners website.