New York City Marathon draws thousands of runners, boosting local businesses

NEW YORK (PIX11)—The New York City Marathon is a big deal for the more than 50,000 runners participating, and it's also a big day for local businesses along the 26.2-mile route.

First Avenue on the Upper East Side typically has the largest cheering section. As runners make their way from the 59th Street Bridge to the Bronx, hundreds of people stand on the sidewalks to shout and applaud. Many bars and restaurants also play music as the spectators eat and drink on the sidewalk.

At Phil Hughes on East 88th and 1st Avenue, bartender Ken Swords tells PIX11 News, "It's the busiest day of the year here. I'd say it tops Saint Patrick's Day even."

Across the Avenue at Roma Pizza, cashier Ruby Hernandez says, "Right next to the Super Bowl, it's our busiest day because a lot of people line up and just come in and out nonstop."

Cassandra Fields and her husband closed last week on their Coffee and Wine shop, Stella & Fly. 

Fields tells PIX 11 News, "We do anticipate heavy volume and high crowds, and we will be here starting at 6 AM."

Some of the more than 50,000 runners listening for the cheering crowds are best friends Chavon Roodt and Saskia Kretschmann. The 22-year-olds are from South Africa and have worked as au pairs on Long Island and New Jersey since January.

 "We decided to take up running before we came to America to stay healthy. We saw a video about the New York City Marathon, and we're like, it has to go on the bucket list," Roodt told PIX11 News.

Their run raises money for the Cultural Care Kids First Foundation, which helps children in need worldwide.