There are only two words that can describe the Nike+ Human Race 10K in New York City: amazing experience! With 10,000 people lined up prior to the start of the race, spirits were high and the atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and eagerness.

Prior to the horn sounding off, Lopez Lomong (United States Olympian – 1500 meters) and Nate Robinson (New York Knicks Point Guard) greeted the crowd. Lopez spent his time on stage inspiring the crowd with his tremendous experience at the 2008 Olympics and he made it a point to encourage everyone to achieve their goals by never letting an obstacle stand in the way. Nate wanted everyone to know what it truly meant to be a New Yorker and reminded the runners that they were the face of New York City today and he encouraged them to run with pride.



As the crowd’s overwhelming applause rose to a deafening level, the horn sounded and the race began! The two-loop route around Randall’s Island made for a challenging, yet honest course that made sure that the runners did not go out too fast and forced them to sustain a steady pace. As the crowd watched from the sidelines, the runners made their way around the first loop and wrapped around once again before entering Icahn Stadium to a standing ovation from the 5,000+ spectators filling the seats. As the runners passed into Icahn Stadium, Lopez Lomong stood near the entrance to hi-five and to congratulate them.

At the end, it was John Henwood (New York Athletic Club member) and Jill Vollweiler (Central Park Track Club member) who finished in first place among the men and the women. John Henwood finished in 32:39 (5:15 pace) and Jill Vollweiler finished in 39:34 (6:22 pace). Of course, the Nike+ Human Race was more than just winning a race; it was about bringing the world together. As the runners crossed the line, hands raised in the air, the participants came together on 8.31.2008 to run for a cause and to inspire others through the joy of running.

As the race concluded, everyone made their way to the post-race concert – The All-American Rejects. As the band took the stage, overlooking the 10,000+ audience members, the lights dimmed and “Dirty Little Secrets” blasted through the stadium’s speakers. The crowd went crazy, pushing forward toward the stage with a number of individuals starting the crowd surf. The All-American Rejects finished their first song and took a moment to introduce John Henwood and Jill Vollweiler.



With John and Jill, standing next to the All-American Rejects and the crowd cheering, it was easily the defining moment of the Nike+ Human Race 10K in New York. It was the type of moment that makes you realize that events like this mean more than just running in a race – it’s about bringing people together and celebrating all the good that occurs throughout the world.

On 8.31.2008, 10,000 people stood together on Randall’s Island while thousands stood around the world for the same purpose. Where were you standing?