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The 2012 New York City Marathon Cancellation

The Unexpected Cancellation of the 2012 New York City Marathon

Background on the 2012 New York City Marathon

The 2012 New York City Marathon, held annually on the first Sunday of November, was expected to attract thousands of participants and spectators. This iconic marathon typically showcases the resilience and spirit of New Yorkers and attracts participants from all over the globe. However, things took a serious turn in 2012.

Hurricane Sandy's Impact on New York City

In late October 2012, Hurricane Sandy, one of the most devastating storms in U.S. history, struck the East Coast, wreaking havoc in New Jersey and New York City. The aftermath of this hurricane left many communities in distress, with widespread power outages, flooded streets, and worried residents trying to recover from the damages.

The Decision to Cancel the Marathon

Announcement of the Cancellation

In light of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, race organizers and New York City officials faced intense scrutiny leading up to the marathon. On November 2, just two days before the race was scheduled to take place, it was announced that the marathon would be cancelled for the first time in its history due to the storm's repercussions.

Reaction from Runners and the Community

The cancellation sparked a mix of emotions among runners, many of whom had been training for months in hopes of completing the marathon. While some supported the decision, recognizing the need to prioritize recovery efforts, others felt that the marathon could have been a way to uplift the city and raise funds for affected communities.

Fun Fact

The 2011 NYC Marathon

Interestingly, the previous year's marathon in 2011 was successful and included over 47,000 participants. The 2011 race raised significant funds for various charities, and it was a symbol of unity and perseverance. Unfortunately, the 2012 cancellation meant that those opportunities were lost, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of natural disasters.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Major Natural Disasters

For those looking to understand more about the impact of natural disasters, consider reading "The Unnatural Disaster: Hurricane Sandy" or "Hurricane Sandy: The Home Repairs Guide". These works provide great insights into the struggles faced during such catastrophic events, including the decision-making processes that follow.