Expo Highlights: Marathoners Flock to Expo for Bibs, Swag, Photos, and Strategy Sessions
On Thursday, it all became very real for those running the 2018 TCS New York City Marathon as doors opened to the TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance.
Hundreds of anxious and excited runners lined up before the grand opening at 10:00 a.m., awaiting their chance to pick up bibs and participant shirts, as well as gain first access to official New Balance gear, course strategy sessions, and special deals on various health and wellness products and apparel.
First in line was Jini Hahn, who got to break the tape at the opening. She is a full-time ACT/SAT Tutor from Basking Ridge, New Jersey, and is a 30-year streaker at the New York City Marathon.
Her advice for ALL runners: ”Don't think about quitting. Get from point A to point B!”
Marathon fever also picks up in the city with the arrival of international runners—this year nearly 130 countries will be represented at the TCS New York City Marathon—many of whom arrived and went straight to the expo.
The expo was a hive of activity all day until 8:00 p.m. as runners came to meet friends, talk to coaches, purchase gear and memorabilia, sample different nutrition and fuel options, snap some photos to share online, and more.
This year, the name wall, which contains the names all the 2018 participants was moved from the TCS New York City Marathon Pavilion to the TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance. As a result, the wall is now five times larger, meaning marathoners can easily find their name and snap a great photo. Along with the name wall, the expo provided countless opportunities for people to get a commemorative picture to share online.
Picking up her bib on Thursday was NYRR’s own Editorial Director, Gordon Bakoulis. The 2018 race marks Gordon’s return to the NYC Marathon since 2002 when she took part in the first pro women’s separate start.
Last Chance to Get Your Bib
The 2018 TCS New York City Marathon Expo Presented by New Balance takes place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, Halls 3B and 3E, at 11th Avenue at West 35th Street. Today (Saturday) is the last day for runners to pick up their bibs. The expo closes at 5:00 p.m. (last entry for number pickup is 5:00 p.m.).
Runners must visit the expo in person during the hours listed below to pick up their race materials. Please bring photo ID and your runner confirmation form with you.
