Andreas Almgren, European record holder, will debut in the NYC Marathon on Nov. 1. Almgren, 31, holds records in 5,000m, 10K, and half-marathon. The NYC course, known for its difficulty, has never produced a time near the world record.

Almgren joins a professional field with ten runners who have clocked under 2:05. Defending champion Benson Kipruto holds the fastest time at 2:02:16. The NYC course, crossing five boroughs, features significant climbs and lacks pacemakers. Read more culture coverage.

Almgren aims for a placing rather than a time, citing the course's uphill sections. He remains committed to track events, despite the marathon debut. The NYC Marathon marks its 50th anniversary this year. Related: Edmonton Marathon Faces Course Length Dispute.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.