A Canadian runner, new to NYC, shares the excitement of attending the NYC Marathon for the first time. The scale and energy of the event left a lasting impression, transforming initial nerves into excitement for future races.

The runner, who had only seen marathons on livestreams, was invited by Apple to cover the event. The experience of exploring NYC by running and attending an Apple event added to the excitement. The marathon's historic finish and the presence of past champions heightened the experience. Read more culture coverage.

The runner highlights the unique challenges and rewards of the NYC Marathon course. Despite the tough terrain, the support from fans and the iconic landmarks made the race unforgettable. The experience has renewed the runner's passion for marathon training. Related: Canadian Running seeks web writer for dynamic team.

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