New York Road Runners Celebrates Black History Month
February is Black History Month, and this year marks 100 years the nation has recognized the achievements and contributions of Black Americans and their central role in U.S. history.
At New York Road Runners, we recognize the leadership, achievements, and perseverance of Black runners and supporters of running—throughout history and today, in New York City and beyond.
Click on the links below to learn more, be inspired, and engage with events and happenings this month as we celebrate and honor Black runners and leaders together. Check back throughout the month for additional content.
"Open Run Is About Access, Consistency, and Community"
To continue our celebration of Black History Month, we interviewed two Black women who play an integral role in the NYRR Open Run sessions at Baisley Pond Park in Queens. We asked them what motivated them to join Open Run, what keeps them coming back week after week, and why diversity in the running community matters. Open Run brings free, weekly community-led runs in neighborhood parks across the greater New York City area, welcoming runners and walkers of all ages, abilities, and experience levels.
A Podcast Playlist for Black History Month
As part of New York Road Runners’ celebration of Black History Month, we’re highlighting episodes from the Set the Pace Presented by Peloton podcast featuring Black runners who dedicate themselves to building community one step at a time.
A Tribute to Ted Corbitt on His Birthday
Ted Corbitt, often called “the father of long-distance running,” was the first president of New York Road Runners. He was an incredible athlete who ran more than 170,000 miles in his lifetime and completed 223 marathons and ultra-marathons, winning 30 of them. His marathon personal best was 2:26:44.
Virtual NYRR Black History Month Challenge
Complete 28 total miles during the month of February in honor of Black figures who have been influential in your own community and around the world. You can run your virtual runs anywhere, anytime between February 1 and February 28.
Bringing Justice and Positive Change to Communities
Running can be a powerful way to bring people together and advocate for change and justice. As NYRR celebrates Black History Month, we spotlight two runners who are working for justice and positive change in their communities.
NYC Is Home to Three Black American Women Sub-3:00 Marathoners
Of the 31 Black American-born women who have run a sub-three-hour marathon, three live and train in New York City. They share their running journeys and reflections on Black American women’s distance running.
Black-Centered Run Clubs and Crews
Running with a club or crew is a great way to meet and get to know like-minded people. NYC's Black-centered run clubs help Black runners find representation and community. Check out these and other clubs throughout Black History Month—and all year long—to find out how they’re celebrating and how to get involved.
Honoring Percy Sutton
As Manhattan borough president, Percy Sutton was integral to the founding of the five-borough New York City Marathon in 1976. A prominent Black political, social, cultural, and business leader, Sutton was a lifelong supporter of running and NYRR, and is the namesake of the Percy Sutton Harlem 5K.
NYRR Hall of Fame Inductee Art Hall
Art Hall (1947–2011), a Harlem native mentored by Ted Corbitt, was a constant on the New York area running scene starting in the early 1970s. He pushed the boundaries for Black runners at a time when many were told they could not prevail over long distances. Hall finished in the top six at the New York City Marathon four times and served on NYRR’s Board of Directors.