Over 50,000 people put a dent in the pavement of New York City’s five boroughs on Sunday, but all eyes were on one man known by a three-letter moniker.
The greatest American marathoner of all time, Meb Keflezighi took his final competitive steps in the TCS New York City Marathon around Noon on Sunday, November 5. As his storied career came to a fitting finish, it’s no accident the 2017 race in New York City was his last. It was Meb’s 26th career marathon, matching the 26.2-mile distance. His 42 years of age also matches 42 kilometers, the metric equivalent to 26.2 miles.
Meb’s career highlights include an Olympic medal in 2004, and victories in the New York City and Boston Marathons in 2009 and 2014. But his real impact on the sport cannot be measured by miles, victories, or times.
Meb is an inspirational hero in the running world and the face of American distance running. Despite his worldwide impact, his influence has been felt close to home for many in the Midwest as Meb has been the face of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon for the past two years.
As the numbers and stories align for Meb’s historic finish, his running coronation in New York City comes exactly six months opposite the first Saturday in May when the Mini is held each year in Indianapolis.
In 2015, Meb ran the Mini non-competitively. He started at the back of the pack and passed participants throughout the morning, offering encouragement and stopping for photos throughout the day.
In 2016, Meb stood on the track of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to motivate participants through the toughest part of the Mini-Marathon course in “Meb’s Motivational Mile.”
His inspiration in the running community doesn’t originate from his speed as a runner, but from his personality and character.
“Winning doesn’t always mean getting first place; it means getting the best out of yourself. One of my greatest joys is inspiring other people to perform at their best.”
For taking the time to visit Indianapolis, take part in The Greatest Spectacle in Running, and make a mega impact on the Mini, we have three words for the three-lettered legend…
Thank you, Meb!
#IndyMini