The numbers are certainly impressive. The New York City marathon was started 36 years ago. 85,000 people applied to run in this years marathon. The women's first place prize is $130,000 - the largest prize in the history of marathoning. Over 2 million spectators are expected on the sidelines. Over 260 million peope worldwide will watch the race (almost as many people as there are US citizens). And the winner will likely average under a 6 minute mile for the whole 26.2 miles.