Kenya’s Albert Korir and Peres Jepchirchir have won the New York City Marathon

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Women’s division winner Peres Jepchirchir of Kenya crosses the finish line during the 2021 TCS New York City Marathon in New York on November 7, 2021.

TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images

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TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images

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They ran the 1st New York City Marathon. Only one returns for the 50th

Albert Korir, also of Kenya, took home the top prize in the men’s division, completing the marathon in 2 hours, 8 minutes, and 22 seconds. Korir nabbed second place in 2019.

Earlier in the day were the Professional Wheelchair Division races, which saw Marcel Hug become the men’s champion and Madison de Rozario win the top prize in the women’s field.

This year’s race is the 50th New York City Marathon. The first one, held in 1970, cost just $1 to enter and welcomed 127 registered runners, just 55 of whom crossed the finish line.

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Runners cross the Queens section of the New York City Marathon on Sunday.

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Kena Betancur/AFP via Getty Images

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Men’s division winner Albert Korir of Kenya crosses the finish line during the 2021 New York City Marathon.

Timothy Clary/AFP via Getty Images

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Timothy Clary/AFP via Getty Images

Men’s division winner Albert Korir of Kenya crosses the finish line during the 2021 New York City Marathon.

Timothy Clary/AFP via Getty Images

Runners had to show proof of at least one round of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative coronavirus test from the previous 48 hours. Organizers increased the number of starting waves to prevent crowding. And fuel and hydration belts were permitted this year, while marathon staff and volunteers were instructed to hand finishers their medals and ponchos rather than placing them around runners’ necks.

Still, fans and onlookers took to the streets along the 26.2-mile route through all five of New York City’s boroughs to cheer on the racers for the first time in two years.