For the runner in you New York Road Runners is more than just a store but it is a club that helps you get trained and ready for any race NYC related and will also customize your medals for you after you finish races. To become a New York Road Runners member is $40, so if you are a member there is no additional fee to add your name and time to a medal and you also get races that you take part in discounted. They give you training on races, have running groups to train for upcoming races or if you just want some decent runs in. They'll also suggest to you sneakers to train in and sneakers to actually run the race in. For the races themselves they have an app that you will give you the history of the races, the history of the medals, some of the participants and the charities and sponsors and also after you finish your time and pace which is very cool. For anyone running any races in NYC and want a group to run with that will help you get better as far as structure and pace I highly suggest New York Road Runners. read more

tl;dr Sign up for a NYRR race if you live in NYC!!! --- I don't know who are the strange people who write Yelp reviews for running organizations, but here goes -- I used to be a runner in high school but just kind of dropped off when I went to college and just never got back into it. In January 2017 I made a resolution with my wife to complete the NYRR 9+1 program to qualify for the 2018 NYC marathon, and although I don't really want to use the cliche "it changed my life" -- it pretty much did. Started off 2.5 years ago running at about a 10-11 minute/per mile pace from lack of practice (~10 years without running!). Now I regularly finish 4-milers well less than 8 and half marathons well less than 9. I completed the 2018 NYC marathon, the original race that all this training was for, and it was a truly inspiring race to run through all 5 boroughs of NYC in a single day and bask in the energy of the crowds cheering you on. I've run more than 30 races with NYRR by this point (I basically use them as tempo runs and to keep myself motivated throughout the year), and their race organization is on point. The larger races tend to be more overwhelming with bag check and security screening, but they still pull it off with minimal confusion. The smaller races always have much more of an intimate feeling, but at the same time it could feel cramped because they don't block off as much of the running path like the entire width of the street for the bigger races. Bib pickup at the Run Center is quick and efficient. Their online portal and results page (especially real-time live tracking immediately after races) are awesome! All of this for $40 a year or $60 for a family membership? It's really not that much -- truly. If you pay for any kind of sports club (cough cough Equinox) just think about how much that is relative to this to gain access to the NYC marathon (and get discounts on races!) Also, don't forget that they give a lot back to the local elementary/middle schools to encourage kids to run! Most fun NYRR races: 1. NYC marathon 2. NYC half 3. Brooklyn half 4. Jingle bell jog 5. Queens 10K 6. Any of the brutally cold winter runs lol (Joe Klinerman 10K, Manhattan half) read more

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Running club extraordinaire. They are so huge they cover all of NYC and all levels of runners. If you want to run your first 5k they have a program for you. Elite? They can challenge you too. Seriously, it's all possible. It's a huge club and does have dues and the like, but if you are serious it's worth it. They also run the NYC marathon, which is of course, A (the?) flagship event. They started it all. With 170 entrants and a fee of $1 the first year. No joke. This club has something for most everyone. And they give back. A lot. read more

I had a whale of a time in my first race, which was sponsored by NYRR. Their website is comprehensive and easy to navigate, and their "in real life" organization is impressive given the number of runners they must coordinate. I guess they have a system down by now. I'd say as a first-time runner, I was a bit intimidated by all the pro-looking people, but, in truth, there are people of all shapes and sizes and ages running. They have a lot of volunteers on staff, but if you need something, you need to be pro-active. It's easy to feel like a small fish in a big pond, so be sure to reach out for help at any time. For $40/year, you can get a membership, which grants you half off of the races. This is a great deal if you run even just two races in a year. I'll definitely do another race soon! read more

Great running club! I'm here in NYC to run the Fifth Avenue Mile with friends and their ten year old boys and having this group put on the race gives me confidence our ten year olds will have a wonderful first-race experience. This club is so helpful whenever I'm in town, I wish I lived here to run more of their races. I'll be back in a month for the Marathon. Their website is very useful with all the race information and results for the many events they put on all year. If you a runner and going to be in New York it's worth checking out to see if something fits your schedule. Thanks and keep up the good work! read more

I've been running for about a year and wish I had known about this group sooner! They offer organized races throughout the year - including long and short runs - and are very organized. Membership in this group is not too expensive (there are different levels) and entitle you to discounts on races - a very good deal if you are into doing a lot of long races. I have just completed one of their races and so far, the experience was great. Bib pick-up was very smooth and fast, and the race was fun and well-supported. For me, the best part is that they offer programs where you can work towards getting guaranteed entry to some selective races - namely the NYC Marathon and the NYC Half Marathon. read more

OMG bib pick up is so easy and fast!! In and out in a few minutes! Besides bib pick up being so quick and efficient, NYRR races are honestly really well organized. No wonder some of the big races such as the NYC half (really fun half to run), Brooklyn half are so hard to get in! All in all sign up for a NYRR race! They have all distances from 1 mile to marathon read more

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I have never seen a place more disorganized than this. Everything is a search of a needle in a pile on their website. There is no phone number to call and they don't reply to emails. I am running NY marathon 2017 in a week and there are two things I don't have answers for: 1/ where do I pick up my running bib??? why doesn't this even have to be a search? why is that not in the email?? 2/ my start time is 11am but my ferry time is 6.15 am and i cannot change it. Why do i have to be in staten island 5 hours before my start time? So i can get tired before I even start running? I hope to never have to deal with NYRR again. They are simply discouraging and don't make things easy. read more

This review is for the NYRR classes, not the races...I'm not at that point yet, but I will be because the NYRR classes are amazing! I'M A RUNNER NOW! Just call me Ms. Prefontaine of the Upper West Side because I I have a new-found appreciation for NYRR. I've done two of their 10-week running classes on Tuesday and Thursdays (one in the summer and currently doing their winter program) and they are perfection. The coaches, Bob and Shelly Glover, are the best. Bob started the program in 1978 and has taught thousands of runners of all levels, helping many go from beginners to ING New York City Marathon finishers. Shelly is an exercise physiologist. Bob is basically the man...an old man, but he could run circles around me which I'm not sure to be embarrassed by this by, or to just think he is pure kick ass. He's ran 35 marathons and often places in NYRR races in the 60-64 age category, while Shelly often places in the 45-49 category. Bob and Shelly are coauthors of several national bestsellers, including The Runner's Handbook and The Competitive Runner's Handbook. Together they coach the Greater New York Racing Team. Obviously, I love them and the entire program. They place you in different running groups depending on your running level. Check them out at http://www.nyrr.org/resources/classes/2010/running_classes_specifics.asp Then you can choose to do it just Tuesdays or Thursdays OR like those that need the guidance/motivation/structure to get outside in the winter months, Tuesdays and Thursdays. You stretch out at this elementary school at 81st and Park, run to Central Park and do different runs/courses/endurance and speed drills, and then go back and stretch and trot out feeling like you're on top of the world! It's for people of all ages and I have met the most amazing people through NYRR. Honestly, it's like only fun people sign up for this with this exception of this one guy that grunts a lot, but my ear warmer headband blocks most of that out. I'm running a half-marathon this Sunday and I think my time will be probably be horrible, BUT I know it will be much better than what it would be if I didn't do these group classes. Cost, you ask? The fee for a 10 week session, one class per week: NYRR Members $105 Non-Members $125 The fee for a 10 week session, two classes per week: NYRR Members $180 Non-Members $250 So worth it and I highly recommend and hope to run with some fellow Yelpers during the next session! OK, gotta go ice my hammies, O.D. on Advil and pass out :) read more

My first race and I chose NYRR! 4 Mile race! Proffessionaly DONE! Well arranged, location to pick up your BIB (To track your run), T-shirt. At the event, complimentary drinks, some snacks at the finish line. I got my results in less than an hour online!. Also NYRR does apply one of the 9 races that need to apply for the marathon. If you are a runner, I recommend you to become a member of NYRR, You get discounted for registration fee (at least 45 % difference). Proud to wear my T-shirt, I'm such a showoff!. Now Aiming for a marathon T-shirt. Wish me luck! read more

I have a love-hate relationship with the NYRRC. Let us start with the hate, shall we? Then we can end in the hot, sweaty runner's embrace of love. HATE: 1. The cost to register for their races keep increasing, and some of those prices have no basis in reality that I can see. For example, the NYRRC has a half-marathon series in all 5 boroughs. The Manhattan Half-Marathon in that series is run in January and cost $15. Inexplicably, the "NYC" Half-Marathon run in August cost $60! Thanks for the gouging. 2. With all the money they rake in from membership fees and the races, why don't they give out more tech/wicking T-shirts? When I go to pick up my race bib, chip and T-shirt, 9 times out of 10 the shirt is another cheap cotton rag that I would not even wear on laundry day, much less run in. I always feel like blowing my nose on it and leaving it there. 3. Please, please, please start the marathon earlier! Long training runs; remember those? Remember how you got up to run them at the crack of dawn so you ran in the coolest part of the day? And even when you were feeling slow, you still finished well before mid-day and could get on with your life? Well, you got up early because it MADE SENSE. I have run marathons in other cities and they start as early as 6am and 7am. None of us really sleep the night before and we are all up at 3am, so for God's sake, let us get our RUN ON! Waiting for hours at Fort Wadsworth amongst the rivers of urine (Oh yes, you read that right. I could tell you stories) is like some fresh hell. And now, the LOVE: 1. Location, location, location. Since they are literally around the corner from Central Park, the NYRRC is a perfect pit-stop for your runs. I have often used their lockers to stow my belongings while I ran. The lockers are wee, but at least they are available (bring your own lock). There are also a few shelves for bags you don't want to bother locking up (perhaps just a change of clothes). You do NOT have to be a member to take advantage of this either! Best of all, they have several bathrooms on their main floor. If you bring a towel you can have a quick wash-up. The area is air conditioned in the summer and amply heated in the winter. I have gone for long runs, cleaned up, rested on their handy benches for a bit ,and left feeling quite grand! 2. They offer classes other than running. Yes, sometimes you wake up and think "If I never see those stinking running shoes again it will be too soon!" So it helps to have cross-training activities. I first learned about deep-water running through the NYRRC. Alas, Doug Stern (the best deep-water running teacher on the planet) passed away this year, but I think they may still offer the class. I found working out in a pool was fun and I always slept like a baby on the nights I took that class (water is therapeutic!) The NYRRC also introduced me to yoga years ago, and I have recently returned to it. I now consider yoga an invaluable part of my training; it keeps me flexible and strong. 3. Last, but certainly not least, much love for finally giving their members some love in return. We always did right by our club. We paid annual membership fees and then more fees for every race, but when it came to the Marathon we were treated like red-headed stepchildren at the family reunion. We had to deal with a lottery and a ridiculous line-up outside of Central Park for "special" entry forms, and most of the time we still didn't get in! It is only recently that we got guaranteed entry into the Marathon. As a member, if you run nine scored races in a calendar year, you get guaranteed entry into the marathon for next year. I have run 18 marathons to date, in places as far flung as London and Paris, but NYC is where I hang my hat. So thanks for letting me run my city! read more

New Balance HQ. Great place for runners in NYC. I wish there was more of a selection in shoes. It's a bit limiting to me that they only carry NB shoes. Staff are friendly and great place to find opportunities to join a run group and make running buddies! They let you test run the shoes around Central Park. That's really helpful! read more

My boyfriend and I chimed in the New Year with a midnight run in Central Park, organized by NYRR. Sponsored by Emerald Nuts, we had a great time and it was the perfect activity to ring in 2012. There must have been hundreds of runners that night, but everything went smoothly and we really enjoyed the "dance party" that kept us moving and shaking hours before the fantastic midnight fireworks and run. The setting, being in Central Park, made this an iconic event and a very memorable moment for me, personally. I have to say, New York Road Runners really does a great job planning and executing races throughout the city, that runners of all levels can participate. Their website is user-friendly, and all the info you'll need to register or become a member of the organization, is clearly mapped out for you (http://nyrr.org/)! Though, I'm currently not a member, I have done about 3 or 4 races through NYRR as a non-member, and each race has been seamless and enjoyable. You can pick up your free swag (most often a t-shirt), running bib, and chip from their swanky, yet convenient, UES location, show up on race day, and run without any complications. At times, I find myself checking their site for upcoming races that would pique my interest, and NYRR has truly provided me with such a great resource that running has become a little bit of a love of mine. If you plan on becoming a member, be forewarned that the membership fees are due to spike up considerably in the New Year. But I get it, it takes a lot of money to organize such great races. Getting in shape will never be a bad investment! read more

I have been a member of NY Road Runners for a few years now and have run quite a few of their races from 5K up the the NYC Marathon and have also volunteered. I think they do an amazing job of organizing these races. Considering the amount of people that run their races, I have found the bib pick-up and the races themselves to be well run. Some things I wish they would do: Introduce some new races (It does get a little boring running in Central Park all the Time. Maybe branch out to a new locale? yes I know they have the 5 borough races but maybe a few more). read more

I've been a member for several years, and even ran the 2011 marathon. Their handling of the 2012 marathon post-Sandy is a whole different story that I'm not going to get into in this review. I've definitely seen the quality and experience of NYRR go down over the past couple of years. Qualifying for the marathon has become a bit of a nightmare, albeit an EXTREMELY expensive one. Not only do you get the privilege of paying $250 for your entry fee, but also 9 races at $25 a pop. So around $500 all told. I had a foot injury last summer and fell out of racing for a bit. After a few particularly good runs, I was inspired to sign up for a short race. Imagine my shock that they're charging $33 for MEMBERS for a 5K. That's ridiculous. The fees have gone up astronomically, and you have to get to the park/start line earlier and earlier to fight the MASSIVE crowds as they've increased capacity in the races. I will say I've run races other places (mostly upstate) and NYRR is definitely more organized than most. But they've become really money-hungry in my opinion, and I don't believe I'll be renewing my membership come April. read more

I've been a member of NYRR for 3 or 4 years. when i first started with NYRR, i really enjoyed all the events - regardless of length. in the past 2 years though, that has totally changed and now I only run the long marathon qualifiers b/c everything about the races is SUCH a pain. * too expensive - these rates have gone up SO MUCH in the past few years, especially on races like NYC Half. * picking up #s on the UES is SUCH a pain * by the second day of # pickup, small t-shirts are frequently already gone. * NYRR is allowing too many people to run the races. * corrals are not enforced. people who are already walking by mile two should NOT be allowed to corral early. you'd THINK people would be considerate enough to self-regulate this, but sadly - they are not. * staff is frequently unhelpful. they used to be so nice - i don't know why this has changed. my chip malfunctioned during the Brooklyn half and my time wasn't recorded. i'd self-timed using my HR monitor and even though it was VERY CLOSE to all my other recorded times, they were really unhelpful and suspicious. (i'm a member! i run like a race a month! i'm not cheating!) I still run races. They're fun. I like the post-race apples. They create a fun atmosphere. I just think there's a LOT of room for improvement here. read more

The NYRRC is really not interested in the NYC runner. This is a business oriented machine. If you don't think so then you haven't seen the astronomical price they are now charging to run the NYC marathon. This race when up an avg. of $60 from last year. That's right a $60 jump. Here is the price list for the NYC marathon. Processing Fee US $11 This fee is required for all applicants. This fee is non-refundable and will be processed when we receive your application. Entry Fee U.S. Residents (those who live in the 50 United States or District of Columbia) NYRR Members: US $216 Non-Members: US $255 Non-U.S. Residents (including Puerto Rico): US $347 So a Non-US resident has to dish out $358 to run this race .That is more than double the price to run the Chicago Marathon which is an incredible marathon and rivals NYC. My biggest complaint is the $11 processing fee. That is just absolutely ridiculous. Most likely NYRRC is using volunteers to help process all the entries. My other big complaint is the lack of support NYRRC gives to the sub-elite and local elite runners. It is essentially non-existent and the clubs are pretty much an afterthought. The NYRRC puts the Club Championships in the middle of August which makes no sense except for the fact that it is an open date for the NYRRC. If they wanted to promote the Club Championships they would have it in the Spring or Fall which would match most runners racing schedule. For me NYRRC is overrated and only in it for the money. I feel that Fred Lebow would be sad to see where the NYRRC is now if he were still alive today. read more

Beginner or experienced runner, the NYRR Club has a terrific opportunity. Their 9 runs + 1 volunteer to qualify for the NYC Marathon = Highlight of my year stay in NYC! I am so thankful to have found this opportunity and after having finished my 5th run, I've had so much fun and have got to see so much of this beautiful amazing city. We've run through Central Park, Wall Street, Queens, Brooklyn and Harlem.... I've been taken everywhere and it's very fun and rewarding! They have decent bib pickup policies before race day and on the actual race day and often have prizes and sponsors at the end so you can enjoy post-run festivities. I've seen other reviewers mention that the total cost of the 9+1 and NY Marathon entry fee comes close to $500+ but honestly the way I feel is these races are fun, in support of some really awesome nonprofits and if you're looking to explore the different Burroughs, this is a terrific opportunity to do so. I see no downsides. read more

As a veteran runner, without the Road Runners Club I'd be smoking, drinking and wasting away until I eventually got a stroke or heart attack. Its a great organization that saved me and has been there for support. When it comes to runners, its easy to become friends with one. Its free to do and doesn't require a gym membership or any special equipment except good running shoes. They have great races almost every month including the NYC Marathon in November. Definitely run a race, even a small one and when you cross the finish, you're guaranteed a race shirt, food, drinks and a great friends. See you at the races! read more

I must say I was a bit perturbed when I was told I had to pay $33 to run a 4-mile race, but after having participated, I must say that the NYRR club is quite the well-oiled machine. For the $33 I got the following: * Tshirt * Water bottle * Bagel and plum after race * (Didn't actually get this but could have if I was a wimp) A shiny wrap thing to keep you warm after race * Water * My name and time documented on NYRR website * An overall great experience (I know, cheeseball, but totally true!) I am kinda addicted and plan to run another race, for 33 bones in May. Call me a sucker for adrenaline. read more

The NYRRC has their act together. They put on tons of races throughout the year including the spectacle that is the NY marathon. The membership helps reduce the price of races, especially if you register for a race early. Some races in the park are way too crowded (e.g., the Run as One race), but I guess that's part of living in NYC. I think the big draw of membership is the ability to skip the lottery and get automatic entry in the NY Marathon (requirement is 1) running 9 races in a year and 2) volunteering at a race. read more

Too bad I live so far from this organization. They are just awesome! No words to really explain how I feel about NYRR. I recently signed up for the Run for Haiti in Central Park on Saturday, Feb 20. It was such an awe-inspiring experience. Right after the earthquake, NYRR was able to put together this event within 3 weeks! I am so amazed, but so happy that they exist. The run generated $400,000 and there were 100,000 runners. I just can't believe it! Runner unite! I hope to do more with them in the future... read more

So many good and bad things about this organization, its tough to summarize them all in a paragraph. TO THE PROS AND CONS LIST!! Pros 1) Ease of signing up for races. You just go onto their website, search for the race, and sign up. Its very very easy. 2) Cheap fees for races. $25 or less (if you sign up early) per race. A very solid bargain, especially since you also get a great tech shirt for some of the races. 3) 9+1 for the marathon automatic entrance. Its nearly impossible to win the drawing for the marathon, so 9+1 or going through a charity are your only options. Cons 1) Bib pick ups. Sometimes you can get in and get out, but other times, especially when they're giving out anything free, this tiny building turns into a catastrophe. 2) The people that work at the office. Just seems like a lot of NYRR employees hate their job. They can be very rude and I'm never greeted with a smile, which bugs me because I'm usually happy that its almost race day. 3) The website can be tough to navigate, though its definitely better than it used to be. If you're looking to get into running and plan on doing at least 3 races a year, its definitely worth getting the NYRR annual membership. Just keep in mind that there will be a few hiccups along the way. read more

3.5 stars, but I was wavering between 3 and 4 and decided to round down because 1) they have terrible communication habits with their members (never listening to anything they say, etc) and 2) the majority of their employees are super rude on packet pickup days (note: that only applies to employees; the member volunteers have almost always been great). I have such a love/hate relationship with NYRR. On one hand, I love their 9+1 program. On another, I hate that they basically charge you $242 minimum (9 races at $18 + 2 $40 memberships - though it will almost definitely be more than that) for the privilege of then paying another $250 to run the marathon. On one hand, I love that signing up for a race makes me run instead of cross-training or treadmilling, and it's fun to see how your time improves on the same course/event from rave to race. On another, I think it's ridiculous to charge me $18-23 (at minimum; for the best races it's quite a bit more) for the "privilege" of running around Central Park, something I probably did the day before for free. I get that races have costs, but it's still weird especially when the only tangible thing you get out of it is a tshirt you probably don't need. I think NYRR definitely has its benefits. But the organization itself is such a clusterf*** (the employees are beyond rude and let's not even mention the marathon debacle) that it sometimes makes those benefits hard to remember. NYRR, I wish I knew how to quit you, but I don't think I will until I get my 2013 marathon entry. read more

To say that I love NYRR is a total understatement. As a guy who likes to keep fit throughout the week and push for 25mi a week, what better way to get out and run than to sign up for one of NYRR's numerous races. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, there are races ranging from 5K to a full marathon for you to choose from. On any given month, there are a good 5+ races that you can choose from. In comparison to other race organizers in the area, NYRR is on another level. You're seeded by your pace, which keeps things flowing on the path, and the event organization itself is amazing. Packet pickup is an ease at their headquarters, and tidbits such as bag check and food during race day are just an added bonus. If you're looking for more motivation to run, then NYRR does have a 9+1 program for the NY Marathon. Participate in 9 races and volunteer for 1 during the year prior to the next marathon, and you'll have guaranteed entry. For most, that's a lot easier than qualifying with a time or 2:40. For the NY Half, it's even easier. Just participate in 5 half marathons, and you get guaranteed entry. Otherwise, you can opt for the lottery for both. Yearly membership is incredibly cheap, and it gets you perks such as discounted entry and exclusive member-only races. New York is an amazing place, and what better way to get out and see more of it than to participate in some races. Throughout all the 5 boroughs, you'll have fun and and even set some PRs along the way. Now get onto nyrr.org and sign up for your next race! read more

I ran the Grete's Great Gallop Half Marathon in Central Park this past weekend and I thought it was very well organized. The main reason I am not rating NYRR higher is their terrible policy on refunds. The date of this race was changed and when I said I couldn't make the new date they said I could pick a different race to run (out of a limited list) but they don't EVER give refunds. They sent me the wording of their policy and it is a pretty insane policy if you ask me. They don't give refunds even if the race is cancelled?? What?? Terms and Conditions Once you have entered a race, your entry fees are non-exchangeable, non-transferable, and non-refundable, under any and all circumstances, including, but not limited to, cancellation of the event or of your participation, or change in the nature or format of the event. An event may be cancelled or changed due to severe weather or other factors that threaten the safety of participants, staff, or volunteers. Cancellation or change of the nature or format of an event may be mandated by governmental officials or otherwise be at the discretion of NYRR. So anyway, I would consider running more races with NYRR in the future just because they are a huge entity in NYC and have races pretty much every weekend. For that convenience I guess I will accept that they could cancel my race and keep my $50. Oof. read more

I've had a membership since last winter but this fall, I finally got into my running kick. I was hesitant to join as some runners just hate these big races and there are better orgs in NYC that run races. However, I was amazed by how well run it was. It was organized choas. I've ran a few races with NYRR - most of their races are in Central Park but are just so great since I don't usually run in the park. Also I've run a decent amount of races, NYRR is well run. Another perk of membership is the 9+1 for the NYC Marathon and the 4 out of 5 for the NYC Half. Basically you get guaranteed entry for the Marathon if you run 9 races (no matter the distance) plus volunteer once or donate $1k for their youth programs the calendar year preceeding the next calendar year's Marathon (i.e. hope to get my 9+1 for the 2014 Marathon in 2013). Also if you run their 4 of 5 designated borough races (i.e. Manhattan Half Marathon in January, Brooklyn Half Marathon in May, Queens 10k in July, Bronx 10 miler in September and Staten Island Half Marathon in October), you get guaranteed entry into their NYC Half Marathon in March. And I got to see Mary Wittenberg today! It was like seeing God. She was running and telling all the runners good job (or something motivational, my headphones were in). read more

I started running on my own four years ago as an aid to kicking fat's ass and the cigarette's butt. Then some friends I met and others I rekindled apparently ran as well. A year later a friend told me about NYRR and the races they organize for the thousands. I scoffed at the idea of paying to run until I ran bandit for the Scotland 10K and realized the difference it was between running a well organized race and by your own damn self. I signed up the next day and started running towards my childhood goal of running the NYC Marathon. Aside from the 9+1 program to qualify for the marathon, they also have various resources and connections for a running enthusiast. They are a very well run organization combining a healthy hobby and numerous philanthropies. Prices have gone up in the past couple of years but what in this world hasn't?! If you look at the operation they run and what they provide it's really not that much. For a look at the beginnings and history of NYRR and it's founder Fred Lebow, search for the documentary, "Run For Your Life". read more

"What does it take to get a goddamn mylar blanket around here?!" I'm hoping to someday update this review to 4 or 5 stars, but after my hypothermic experience at the Women's Half Marathon organized by NYRR, I have to stick to 3 stars. Awesome: The goody bag (free pasta, lululemon headband, Murad moisturizer, etc.). Great staff cheering you on along the run. Not so awesome: Utter lack of coordination on race day. Rain was predicted at least 72 hours before, yet it seemed like almost no preparations for the nasty weather had been made other than having a few trashbags on hand. Ahem... 1) Baggage check was located out in the open, without so much as a cheap tarp to cover bags. All of our "dry clothes" were soaked and strewn about the dirty parking lot by the time the race was over. 2) There weren't enough mylar blankets for runners, which led to some nasty throwdowns at the finish line (if you thought women fighting for Vera Wang at Filene's Basement were bad...). 3) There weren't even hot drinks or chicken broth at the finish line, both of which are staples for cold weather races. The result was a med tent packed with shivering women on the verge of hypothermia after running 2+ hours in the freezing rain. For as coordinated and trusted an organization as NYRR is, it certainly didn't show in their management of this race. Luckily, I was just a short cab ride away from salvation (via a hot shower, dry sweats, and celebratory brunch). Plus I felt so damn accomplished after running over 13 miles I didn't let it dampen my spirits... pun intended. But next time NYRR, come up with a better contingency plan, especially when the health of 10,000 runners is on the line. read more

"New York Road Runners Club" is somewhat of a misnomer. This is a business-model organization that promotes running as a leisure-time commodity for the masses as well as those who are serious about the sport. They organize on an almost weekly basis races that are overwhelmingly in Central Park and hence lack variety and convenience for those of us in other boroughs. Membership basically just gives you the right to only pay $20 rather than $30 to race with thousands of other people in a public park in their sponsored races. The other "Perks" involve discounts on pricey classes catering to a crowd that can drop a few hundred dollars on classes to run. (Classes to run? Really?) They are the gold standard for the NY racing scene because they have the routine down pat and are able to attract the highest level of competition, especially for their premier events. However, the experience of racing with them is becoming ever more distasteful with almost 5000 participants in each race. Two friends I know have landed in the ER because of being pushed during the commotion in these. There is no community "club" feel about the NYRRs--impersonal and company-like, I try to support local clubs' races and activities instead. read more

Being a road runner for almost a year now, I'm always enthusiastic about signing up for their races. To date, I've completed 7 races; 2 half marathons and 5 5Ks. Running with so many other runner enthusiasts has made me more of a competitive runner than I was ever before. I've always had a good time at these events. However, I do have few recs for improvements: 1. Provide plastic raincoats for runners when rainy weather is predictable (e.g 2010 More Fitness Women's Half Marathon) 2. Whether we are a member or non-member of the NYRR, we still have to pay to run. I think more money can be spent on making better t-shirts and refreshments (i.e. juice, Gaterade(for 5K races especially)) Other than that, I'm proud to be a member of NYRR. :) read more

New York Road Runners (NYRR, for short) is the most well-organized, professional running race company I've ever seen. They have the whole thing down to a science, from start to finish (haha--like the pun? okay maybe not...). No matter what your racing history or ability, they have something for you. The primary method of communication is via their website, which has a list of all upcoming races and allows you to register online. If you join the organization (which you can also do online) then your race history and average pace time is saved for future races. They also have classes and workshops to sign up for online, too. The first NYRR event I did was the NYRR 8000. It turned out to be a horrible morning--freezing cold, raining, windy. The upshot is that a lot of people stayed home so it wasn't crowded. Other races I've done since have been much more well-attended and a little chaotic. But back to NYRR generally. Even amidst over 10,000 registered runners for some races, they are totally in control and systematic. The days before the race you can pick up your tshirt and bib at their office in the UES. Bibs are colored according to pace time so that faster runners don't trip over the walkers, and everyone has a better overall running experience. Routes are clearly marked with signs and cones along the way, there's always plenty of volunteers and water/gatorade stations. Oh! And the bag checks. Love that idea--you dump your bag in these corrals they have set up, each bag pinned with your bib number. After the race, you match your bib number to the bag and VOILA! No worrying about where to stash your dry clothes, water bottle, etc. I feel completely spoiled after being a NYRR member. I don't think any other city I go to will ever come close. I can't wait to run the NYC Marathon next year with them! read more

NYRR is a fabulous organization. The races are a lot of fun, always support a cause, and the marathon is self explanatory, not to mention the good work they are doing with their kids program. I have been a member and running most races for several years, and I write this review not of the parts of the org I am a part of, but a part I am not. Training for long distance races in Central Park can be frustrating. Other running groups run 5 wide taking up lanes reserved for both directions of runners forcing non group members into bike lanes or traffic, and generally have little to no consideration for other park users. One group even ran up on my wife from behind and bumped her out of the way at the water fountain at 90th st. NYRR running groups? Always polite and courteous, and good citizens. Running in groups of 20+...... they run two across leaving room for everyone else. Group of 25 about to overtake you? They announce and all pass on one side, not swarming you or effecting your run. Announce yourself passing? They allow you to pass. NYRR deserves to be recognized for not only organizing almost all of the NYC running events, but also for being considerate of every other park user, and adding a total net positive to other runners park experiences. read more