New York Road Runners Sprint to New Rights Pact With ABC, ESPN

As a lifelong New Yorker and avid runner, I couldn’t be more thrilled about this latest development! The expansion of the partnership between New York Road Runners, WABC, ESPN, and Disney is a testament to the growing popularity of running events, particularly post-pandemic.


The rights deal that puts the New York City Marathon on TV is stretching.

The charitable organization, New York Road Runners, responsible for organizing the TCS New York City Marathon, has agreed on a three-year contract with WABC in New York and ESPN (both owned by Disney). This partnership will ensure broadcast coverage not only of the marathon itself but also the United Airlines NYC Half, the New Balance 5th Avenue Mile, and the women’s-only Mastercard New York Mini 10K.

“New York Road Runners is thrilled to broaden our collaboration with ABC7/WABC-TV and ESPN, given the rising demand for running programming following the pandemic’s impact on running,” said CEO Rob Simmelkjaer in a statement. “This development marks a substantial enhancement of our previous alliance, boosting the exposure of New York Road Runners’ annual races and events such as the New Balance 5th Avenue Mile and Mastercard New York Mini 10K, alongside the TCS New York City Marathon, the city’s finest day.”

Since 2013, both WABC and ESPN2 have been responsible for the marathon broadcast. This live television coverage, jointly produced with 45 Live and distributed by IMG, will persistently air nationally on ESPN2. Additionally, pre-race events and ongoing coverage can be streamed online via ESPN+.

Starting today, ABC national television will air a live, two-hour program straight from the New York City Marathon finish line. This show will highlight both famous personalities and ordinary runners as they cross the finish line. Meanwhile, WABC will provide a pre-race show, a countdown special, and live coverage of the Marathon Opening Ceremony.

“John Suchenski, Senior Director of Programming & Acquisitions at ESPN, expressed that the TCS New York City Marathon embodies the spirit and essence of New York City, making it one of the most energetic days to be a part of. He’s excited that ESPN, in collaboration with New York Road Runners and WABC, will continue to broadcast the inspiring tales and impressive athleticism of this exceptional event to a nationwide audience. Additionally, they aim to extend their coverage to highlight New York Road Runners’ other events throughout the year.”

WABC plans on airing a live broadcast of the United Airlines NYC Half, as well as televising the New Balance 5th Avenue Mile, a speedy one-mile race on the renowned street, and streaming the Mastercard New York Mini 10K event in real time.

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2024-08-27 18:20