You, a Bridge, and the NYC Marathon: A Love (Triangle)?
The New York City Marathon - a grueling test of endurance, a bucket list item for running fanatics, and a guaranteed way to ensure your legs resemble overcooked spaghetti for a week. But hey, at least you get to see...stuff, right? Well, maybe? While most marathoners are laser-focused on that finish line (and rightfully so), there's a surprising amount of bridge-related fun to be had on race day.
Bridge #1: Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge - The Start of Something Beautiful (and Sweaty)
This magnificent beast is your grand entrance into the marathon. Imagine it - a celebratory cannon blast sends you hurtling out of Staten Island, the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge stretching out before you like a gateway to...well, more running. Here's the thing: Enjoy the view! This is where your legs are fresh, your optimism is high, and selfies are plentiful (try not to trip over anyone capturing their epic bridge moment). Pro tip: Don't waste energy contemplating the vastness of the ocean you're running alongside - that's just the cruel marathon way of reminding you it's nowhere near the finish line.
Bridge #2 (and 3!): The Queensboro Bridge - First Round, Fight! (and Second Round, Because Why Not?)
Let's be honest, the Queensboro Bridge isn't the main event in the bridge department. It boasts a view of...another bridge. But hey, you're over the East River now, which is basically a mini-marathon victory within the marathon, so take a mental victory lap (while dodging elbows, of course). Now, brace yourself, because the NYC Marathon course likes to double down on bridges. Yes, you get to experience the joy (or is it soul-crushing despair?) of the Queensboro Bridge twice. Maybe they have a punch card system for tolls on race day?
Bridge Epilogue: You, Your Legs, and the Afterparty
By the time you cross any bridge after mile 20, all thoughts of sightseeing have evaporated faster than your remaining energy reserves. These bridges become symbolic hurdles, testaments to your perseverance. You've conquered these metal behemoths, and soon, you'll conquer that finish line. So the next time you're huffing and puffing your way up a bridge during the NYC Marathon, remember - it's not just about the miles, it's about the epic bridge bragging rights you'll have at the afterparty (assuming you can still muster the energy to speak).