NYRR Celebrates Black History Month
February is Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history.
At NYRR, we recognize the leadership, achievements, and perseverance of Black runners and supporters of running—throughout history and today, in New York City and beyond.
Click on the links below to learn more, be inspired, and engage with events and happenings this month as we celebrate and honor Black runners and leaders together. Check back throughout the month as we add more content!
NYRR Celebrates the Life of Ted Corbitt
Known as "the father of long-distance running," Ted Corbitt was the first Black American runner to compete in the Olympic marathon and the founding president of New York Road Runners. He completed 223 marathons and ultramarathons—winning 30 of them—and ran more than 170,000 lifetime miles. He was also an innovative physical therapist, the inventor of accurate course measurement, and a tireless champion of inclusivity across all ages, races, genders, and abilities.
The New York Pioneer Club: A Civil Rights History
New York Road Runners became the diverse and inclusive organization it is today thanks to a Harlem track club. NYRR and the TCS New York City Marathon are a gift to the world from New York City’s Black community and the New York Pioneer Club of Harlem.
A Timeline of Black American Distance Running History
Ted Corbitt, NYRR’s founding president, wasn’t the first world-class Black American distance runner. Black running history in America dates to at least the 1870s and is both rich and deep.
Honoring Percy Sutton
As Manhattan borough president, Percy Sutton was integral to the founding of the five-borough New York City Marathon in 1976. A prominent Black political, social, cultural, and business leader, Sutton was a lifelong supporter of running and NYRR, and is the namesake of the Percy Sutton Harlem 5K.
Artist Derrick Adams at The FLAG Art Foundation
Installation view of Derrick Adams: I Can Show You Better Than I Can Tell You at The FLAG Art Foundation, 2023
Photography by Steven Probert
Derrick Adams is a Black Brooklyn-based artist who designed the shirt for the NYRR Gridiron 4M Presented by The FLAG Art Foundation. A free exhibit of Adams’ work is at The FLAG Art Foundation in Chelsea through March 11. You can also check out race shirt in our reveal on Instagram and a larger rendition on site on race day on February 12.
Virtual NYRR Black History Month 5K
Sign up to run this virtual race anywhere, anytime between February 18 and February 26 and complete your 3.1 miles in honor of Black people who have been influential in your community and around the world.
Art Hall, 2022 NYRR Hall of Fame Inductee
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Art Hall (1947–2011), a Harlem native mentored by Ted Corbitt, was a constant presence on the New York area running scene starting in the early 1970s. He pushed the boundaries for Black runners at a time when many were told they could not prevail over long distances. Hall finished in the top six at the New York City Marathon four times and served on NYRR’s Board of Directors.
Celebrate the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce
This year, we highlight the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) for their incredible impact for 125 years through commercial and small business development, educational services, and arts and culture. GHCC's mission is to improve the quality of life for all residents and develop and attract quality business and professional services. We join in celebrating their efforts, paving the way as the oldest continual business organization in upper Manhattan. Check out how the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and its partners are celebrating Black History Month.
"Breaking Three Hours" Celebrates Black American Women Sub-3:00 Marathoners
A new award-winning documentary tells the stories of nine of the 28 Black U.S.-born women who have run faster than 3:00 in the marathon. The film is now available for streaming on multiple platforms and makes an important statement about the power of representation.
Black-Centered Run Clubs Commemorate Black History Month
During Black History Month and all year long, Black runners and members of Black-centered running clubs in NYC celebrate their running experiences. Here, we highlight celebrations and observances of a few local clubs.