Marilson Gomes dos Santos of Brazil won the New York City Marathon in 2006, becoming the first South American to do so. He came back to win again in 2008.

Gomes dos Santos is a five-time Pan American Games medalist, and he remains the South American record-holder in the 5000 meters (13:19.43) and 10,000 meters (27:28.12).

He competed in the Olympic marathon in 2008, 2012, and 2016, with a best result of fifth place in 2012. His personal best in the marathon is 2:06:34, which he ran at the 2011 London Marathon, placing fourth.