Croatian runners fly the flag at New York City Marathon

(Photo: Sandra Brizanac)

The world’s largest marathon, the 54th TCS New York City Marathon, took place in New York on Sunday, drawing more than 55,000 runners from over 150 countries.

Once again, Croatian colours could be spotted among the sea of athletes taking on the 42.195-kilometre course across all five boroughs of New York.

This year’s winners both hailed from Kenya – Benson Kipruto triumphed in the men’s race, while Hellen Obiri took the women’s title, adding another impressive chapter to Kenya’s storied distance-running legacy.

Among the thousands who crossed the finish line in Central Park was Mario Brizanac, proudly representing Croatia as he completed his fifth consecutive New York Marathon.

As always, he was cheered on by his wife Sandra, family members, and a lively group of friends.

(Photo: Sandra Brizanac)

Joining him this year were several first-time Croatian participants, including Moreno and Elma Laković, who ran the marathon together as a couple. From Istria, runners Dragan and Ivana Kramar, Marjan Sanković, Larisa Prenc, Margerita Rovis, and Lorena Selar also made the journey to New York to take part in the iconic event.

(Photo: Sandra Brizanac)

Throughout the 26.2-mile route, runners were spurred on by an estimated two million enthusiastic spectators, a trademark of the marathon that contributes to its electric atmosphere.

(Photo: Sandra Brizanac)

(Photo: Sandra Brizanac)

“It’s always an honour to see so many Croatians taking part each year. Congratulations to all on their amazing achievements,” said Sandra Brizanac, a devoted supporter of Croatian runners in New York.

(Photo: Sandra Brizanac)

The event, officially known as the TCS New York City Marathon, is organised by New York Road Runners (NYRR) and sponsored by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

Since its inception in 1970, it has been held every year on the first Sunday of November, welcoming both elite athletes and amateur runners who often race to raise funds for good causes.

This year, more than 600 charitable organisations were represented, with several million dollars expected to be raised through the efforts of participants.

by Ane Strazicic Rodriguez