Running News Daily

The New York City Marathon delivered one of its most emotional stories of the 2026 edition when 78-year-old James Thomas, affectionately known as “Marty” among his running friends, crossed the finish line in Central Park at approximately 11:20 p.m. on Sunday, November 1, becoming the final runner to complete the historic race.

While the leading athletes had crossed the finish line many hours earlier, Thomas was still making his way through the streets of New York, determined to complete a journey that had become a remarkable part of his life for more than four decades.

For the veteran runner from Rockland County, this was no ordinary marathon. It was his 43rd appearance at the New York City Marathon and, more significantly, the final chapter of an extraordinary relationship with one of the world's most celebrated road races.

Thomas began his New York Marathon journey in 1980. Since then, he has returned year after year, building an incredible record of perseverance, commitment and loyalty to the iconic event. At 78, he once again took on the demanding 26.2-mile (42.195km) course, which winds through all five boroughs of New York City before reaching its famous finish in Central Park.

Starting at approximately 9:20 a.m., Thomas spent nearly 14 hours completing the course. By the time he approached the finish line, darkness had fallen over Central Park, and much of the day's marathon excitement had passed. However, his arrival created a memorable moment as spectators and supporters remained at the finish to welcome him home with applause and encouragement.

His achievement carried additional significance because the 2026 edition marked the 50th anniversary of the New York City Marathon's five-borough course, making his final appearance even more special.

Following his emotional finish, Thomas revealed that he had decided to bring his New York City Marathon journey to an end. Although his desire to continue running remains strong, he acknowledged that the physical demands of marathon running eventually require difficult decisions.

Reflecting on the challenge, he explained that the mind may still be willing to push forward, but it is ultimately the body that must carry a runner through the distance. His message captured the reality of endurance sport, where determination and physical capability must work together.

Completing 43 editions of the same marathon over more than four decades is an extraordinary accomplishment. It represents thousands of training miles, countless hours of preparation and an enduring passion for running that has survived the changing seasons of life.

Thomas may have been the last person to cross the finish line in 2026, but his story had nothing to do with finishing positions or race times. Instead, it highlighted the deeper meaning of marathon running: resilience, dedication, courage and the determination to keep moving forward regardless of how long the journey takes.

His final appearance also served as a powerful reminder that the marathon belongs to everyone, not just the elite athletes who battle for victories and records. Every participant has a personal story, and every finish line represents an achievement worth celebrating.

At 78, James “Marty” Thomas has brought an extraordinary chapter of his running life to a close. After 43 New York City Marathon finishes since 1980, he chose to say goodbye on his own terms, surrounded by supporters who stayed late into the night to witness his final steps.

He was the last runner across the line, but his remarkable journey ensured that he would not be the last one remembered from the 2026 New York City Marathon.

A truly unforgettable farewell to a marathon legend!