This article by Elliott Denman, one of the athletes who’s been around the NYC running scene long enough to remember the founding of the NYRR’s 50 years ago, is worth giving a quick read. It’s full of snippets from the early years, and some great sound bites from Bill Rodgers and Mary Wittenberg.
Which reminds me, one day I want to run the Yonkers Marathon. It’s the second-oldest marathon in the nation, after the Boston Marathon, and is one of the most difficult courses.
Pigtails Flying 
As I am the King of Yonkers by blood, I’ll see what I can do to get you a spot in the race.
Be prepared for the Hills, makes SF look like Death Valley!
rD