Journal 4: Impact of Hurricane Sandy on New York

Start of NYC Marathon, Courtesy of A.T. Willett Photography

In the article, “Up and Running” by Louisa Thomas, the impact of Hurricane Sandy on New York’s world renowned marathon was discussed.  The question raised, was what is more important, the marathon, or the millions of people out of power and water? She talked about how a week previous to the cancellation of the marathon Mayor Bloomberg was adamant about hosting it regardless of the recent hurricane and the many people affected. 

                While reading the article, I could understand the Mayor’s position about the race.  People from all over the world come to race in the New York Marathon.  Some people earn much of their income off of racing in this race.  What’s more, people participate in many other marathons all year just to qualify for this 26.2 mile trek.  This race brings in so much revenue to the state and community.  I can completely see and understand his standpoint on hosting the race.  However, it raises a lot of controversy over what is more important. 

                It amazes me how people will come together in events of tragedy.  There are simply no words for people helping others they do not even know.  I think that act of kindness is irreplaceable and cannot be matched by anything else.  The fact that all of those signed up to race laced up their shoes to help repair damage and generate a city under massive complication, is hard to even fathom.  In spite of this tragic event cancelling something so important to many people, they did not hesitate to lend a helping hand.  To me, that says it all.  Kind gestures speak louder than words.  

http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/8594475/examining-outrage-cancelation-new-york-city-marathon