East Meadow runs big at NYC Marathon

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The weather was warm and humid on Nov. 6 for the annual New York City Marathon which meant that the 26.2 mile run was going to be even harder than usual. Runners came from all over the world — 50,000 in total — to run throughout the five boroughs. Some threw up, some passed out, and some called it quits. But for these East Meadow marathoners the only option was crossing the finish line in Central Park.

Thomas Geraghty

Age: 42


Year running the marathon:
- Third time running NYC, fifth marathon overall.

Why you started running:
- I started running in 2015 to get in shape for my wedding. I ran the Long Island Half Marathon two weeks before our wedding day. I caught the running bug and have been doing it ever since.

Are you raising money for anything?
- Not this year. Last year, I raised over $5,000 for the National Blood Clot Alliance. I was diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism in January of 2020, so this cause is very near and dear to me.

Finish time?
- 5:26:54, a “personal worst”

Favorite part:
- My favorite part definitely was seeing my wife and son on Central Park South before the finish line. My wife has met me there all 3 of my NYC Marathons. It’s become “our spot.”

Hardest part:
- The halfway mark. My mom, step-dad and brother were waiting to cheer me on at the very end of Brooklyn. I was 50/50 about calling it quits, I was so tired.

How long you trained:
- I did a 20 week training program, three runs a week with some cross training and strength training mixed in.

Was it harder this year because it was warmer?
- Absolutely. The conditions were brutal. This was my worst time in five marathons. In a strange way, I’m the proudest of this one because of all the challenges this year had!

Any advice for someone who wants to run it?
- You should do more than just running if you want to have a successful marathon. Strength training, cross training, improving flexibility, good nutrition, all of these put together will set you up for a big race day!

Jill Cagan

Age: 57

Year running the marathon:
- This was my first marathon ever!

Why you started running:
- I started running about nine years ago simply because I always thought I couldn’t! Also, it’s cheaper than therapy.

Are you raising money for anything?
- Yes, for the Babies Heart Fund at New York Presbyterian Hospital. My son was born with a congenital heart defect and was a patient there for many years. I raised over $4,300.

Finish time?
- 5:50:33

Favorite part:
- The energy of the crowds.

Hardest part:
- The Bridges and the awful humidity.

How long you trained:
- 18 weeks

Do you think it was harder this year because it was warm?
- Yes, the heat and humidity made it really difficult. It definitely slowed me down and I saw a few people who were passed out. Several water stations had run out of cups which made it extra challenging.

Any advice for someone who wants to run it?
- Just do it! It’s an unforgettable experience.

Denyse Kofod

Age: 50

Year running the marathon:
- Second NYC, also ran in 2019. Ran Marine Corps in 2018.

Why you started running:
- I had a lot of friends and family who ran and their accomplishments were so inspiring. It’s great exercise for both the body and mind!

Finish time?
- 5:15:46

Favorite part:
- All the crowd support!!! Absolutely unbelievable 26 mile block party. So much fun to be a part of that!

Hardest part:
- In general, the bridges, and this year, the temperature and humidity.

How long you trained:
- 16 weeks

Do you think it was harder this year because it was warm?
- 100 percent, absolutely, yes!!

Any advice for someone who wants to run it?
- Do it! Believe in yourself, commit to a training plan, and know the sacrifice will be worth it!  Also, if you are able to complete the NYRR 9+1 program for guaranteed entry the next year, that is probably the best way to get in (as opposed to the lottery).