Cheer NYC Marathon Runners Through Brooklyn's Mile 8
Two spots near mile 8 put you beside the NYC Marathon course, with brunch a short walk away once the runners pass.
📣 Sunday Morning at Mile 8
🏃 Two Spots Near Mile 8
The NYC Marathon reaches Brooklyn's mile 8 on Sunday, November 1, where runners climb Fourth Avenue to its meeting with Flatbush Avenue. Viewing guides point spectators to that corner, right above a major subway hub. A few blocks on, at Flatbush and Lafayette, the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership lists its own cheering station at the plaza at 300 Ashland. Runners turn there toward Fort Greene with more than 18 miles still ahead. The photos on this page come from earlier editions of the race.
🔔 Tracking Your Runner
Download the free NYRR App before race morning, then search for your runner and add them to your favorites. The app updates from timing mats at every 5K, halfway and mile 20, and its map is an estimate between those mats rather than a live GPS dot. Holding a sign with your runner's name makes it easier for them to spot you in the crowd. In earlier years the Downtown Brooklyn station has handed out coffee and cowbells, and this year's lineup has not been confirmed.
🥐 Getting There and Staying for Brunch
Take the D, N, Q, R, 2, 3 or 4 train to Atlantic Avenue and Barclays Center, the station under the Fourth Avenue and Flatbush corner. Roads along the course close to traffic, and some subway exits and crossings may be restricted on race day. Pick a brunch spot on your side of the course before the runners arrive, and cross only at marked pedestrian crossings. It suits friends and families who want to see the race up close. Anyone who dislikes crowds can follow along in the app.
