The temperature was appropriate, the winds had ceased, and the runners were soaring throughout the five boroughs of New York. It was the annual marathon of committed citizens fulfilling their hope of completing the 26.2 miles from the starting line on Staten Island to the finish line in Central Park.
The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) continued their annual partnership with New York Road Runners in welcoming the international community of marathon athletes and advocates along blocks from 135th Street down to 96th Street on Fifth Avenue.
This portion of the marathon is named to honor the iconic civic rights leader and businessman Percy Sutton who was instrumental in establishing the TCS New York City Marathon as a five-borough event.
On Marathon Sunday, November 2, 2025, the Greater Harlem Chamber operated four spectacular stages: Stage 1 at East 135th Street & Fifth Avenue – Gospel & Spiritual Live Performances, saluting the music of Hezekiah Walker & Erica Campbell; Stage 2 at East 135th Street & Fifth Avenue featured the Best of R&B and Hip Hop, saluting the music of Busta Rhymes & Angie Stone; Stage 3 featured The Sound of Harlem at West 121st Street & Mt. Morris Park West, celebrating the music of Quincy Jones & Roberta Flack, and Stage 4 – Latin & Caribbean-The Beat of the African Diaspora at West 117th Street & Fifth Avenue, saluting the music of Eddie Palmieri and Rita Marley.
From my advantage, the tent located at 124th Street & Fifth Avenue, where the runners made a historic 22-mile marker turn, the music was popping from the sensational sounds of Uptown Royalty NYC’s husband and wife team, Jodi Music and Ron Renaissance, artists of Lewis and Kirk Music.
Winston Majette of GHCC was on point in his usual welcoming spirit introducing notables who stopped by that included: City Councilmember Yusef Salaam, Assemblyman Jordan Wright, Jackie Rowe Adams of Harlem Mothers & Fathers S.A.V.E., and others.
It was another great day to be in Harlem, to cheer on the runners, to laugh and enjoy the company of community and to thank the Greater Chamber of Harlem for their ongoing community outreach and service.
Our hearts were sadden remembering the recent passing of Lloyd Williams, the Chamber’s longtime, most admirable leader, but our hope was confirmed on this day that his good work was not in vain, GHCC is alive and well. Touche.