13.1 Reasons to Run the 2024 United Airlines NYC Half
Experience the bright lights of New York City at the 2024 United Airlines NYC Half on Sunday, March 17. You can apply or claim your guaranteed entry now through November 15. The entry drawing is November 29.
The United Airlines NYC Half is The One to Run! Here are 13.1 reasons to claim your spot or apply.
1. Spectacular Course
The 13.1-mile United Airlines NYC Half route begins in Brooklyn, goes over the Manhattan Bridge, heads north on the FDR Drive, zips through Times Square (one of just two times each year it’s closed to traffic), and finishes in Central Park.
You’ll take in two boroughs—Brooklyn and Manhattan—as you run through diverse neighborhoods and past iconic landmarks and stunning views.
2. Awesome Field Size
You’ll be part of a field of 25,000 runners from around the globe in the country's premier spring half marathon.
3. Inspiring Race Date
Training for a March half marathon (13.1 miles) gets your year started on the right foot. The United Airlines NYC Half also kicks off the NYRR Five-Borough Series, which showcase our great city all year long.
4. Virtual Training From Anywhere
Get insider tips from the United Airlines NYC Half training community when you sign up for NYRR Coaching Lab by Runcoach, a customizable virtual training program that provides guidance, structure, and accountability to set you up for success.
5. In-Person Training in NYC
Train with other runners working toward the United Airlines NYC Half with NYRR Group Training. Workouts offer coaching, camaraderie, and inspiration with a focus on speedwork, tempo training, and long runs. Register now for a six-week session that starts November 14, and on December 11 for the January–March session.
6. Guaranteed Entry with Team for Kids
Team for Kids is NYRR’s charity program supporting our free nationwide youth fitness platform.
Entry to the 2024 United Airlines NYC Half through Team for Kids has reached capacity and is no longer available. Explore other Team for Kids opportunities here.
7. Other Charity Opportunities
A list of United Airlines NYC Half official charity partners will be available on November 28.
8. 9+1 and 4 Out of 6 Qualifier
The 2024 United Airlines NYC Half is part of NYRR’s 9+1 program for guaranteed entry to the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, and the 4 Out of 6 program for guaranteed entry to the 2025 United Airlines NYC Half. Learn more on the race page.
9. Marathon Tune-Up
Running the United Airlines NYC Half is great preparation—physical, mental, and logistical—for a full marathon (26.2 miles) later in the year.
10. Great Weather
No guarantees, but 2023 race conditions were close to perfect, and historically, race day has been chilly (but not frigid) and clear.
11. Destination Race
Runners from across the country and around the world run the United Airlines NYC Half and enjoy all that New York City has to offer. Consider booking your trip and guaranteeing your entry through one of our International Tour Operators starting November 29.
12. Amazing Pro Field
The 2024 United Airlines NYC Half field will feature world-class athletes including Olympians and Paralympians, national and world record-holders, and former champions—inspiring you on your 13.1-mile journey!
13. A Family Affair
The Times Square Kids Run at the United Airlines NYC Half is a fun, free youth (ages 8–18) event with untimed and timed/competitive options. Learn more and register for Stage 1, Stage 2, or Stage 3.
.1 Volunteer Opportunities
Can't run? Get a front-row seat to the action when you volunteer! Check out options and grab your volunteer spot today—and thank you.