83-Year-Old Marathon Veteran Aims for 49th Consecutive NYC Marathon Finish — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Dave Obelkevich, 83, is set to run his 116th marathon, aiming for his 49th consecutive New York City Marathon finish. He began his streak in 1976 and has completed every five-borough edition since. Obelkevich, a former music teacher, has no plans to stop.
The New York City Marathon marks its 50th course this year, with Obelkevich participating in 49 of those editions. He first ran the marathon in 1974 and has finished every year since, except for 1975 when he dropped out due to dizziness. Read more culture coverage.
Despite health challenges, including intensive care for an aortic aneurysm in 2020, Obelkevich continues to participate. His daughter, Maria, has supported him every year, and he plans to walk most of the 26.2 miles this year. Related: TCS New York City Marathon Set for Exciting 50th Edition.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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What should runners know about 83-Year-Old Marathon Veteran Aims for 49th Consecutive NYC Marathon Finish?
Dave Obelkevich, the only runner to complete every five-borough NYC Marathon, returns at age 83. Dave Obelkevich, 83, is set to run his 116th marathon, aiming for his 49th consecutive New York City Marathon finish. He began his streak in 1976 and has completed every five-borough edition since. Obelkevich, a former music teacher, has no plans to stop.
When did Runner World publish this culture brief?
Runner World published this brief on October 28, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated October 28, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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