Athletics-NYC Marathon draws record applications of more than 200,000

FILE PHOTO: Competitors run on Bedford Avenue through the Brooklyn borough during the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon, in New York City, U.S., November 3, 2024. REUTERS/Kent J Edwards/File Photo

NEW YORK (Reuters) - More than 200,000 people applied for a place in the New York City Marathon lottery this year, organizers said on Wednesday, up 22% from 2024 amid a boom in popularity for distance running in the United States.

Only around 2%-3% of the record number of applicants will be accepted through the general draw, New York Road Runners said, with other avenues for participation including charity entries and time qualification.