2021 NYC Marathon Marked Return to Racing After Pandemic Challenges

For many runners, the focus shifted from personal bests to simply finishing the race.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:49pm

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The 2021 New York City Marathon marked a return to in-person racing after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 event. While it was a celebration of the city's comeback, the race presented unique challenges for runners, including a later start time and altered training schedules. One runner's experience highlights how sometimes the greatest gains come not from success, but from navigating setbacks.

Why it matters

The cancellation of the 2020 NYC Marathon significantly altered the racing landscape, and the 2021 event showcased the resilience and adaptability of runners in the face of adversity. Experts suggest that facing setbacks can actually be crucial for growth, as the brain learns from failures and creates new pathways for improvement.

The details

For many runners, the 2021 NYC Marathon was not about achieving personal bests, but simply finishing the race. Factors like the later start time and disrupted training schedules contributed to unexpected difficulties. However, experts say that these 'subpar' races are actually good for the brain, activating a process called neuroplasticity that allows the brain to adapt and improve.

  • The 2020 New York City Marathon was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The 2021 New York City Marathon marked a return to in-person racing.

The players

Renee Exelbert

A licensed psychologist and certified personal trainer who explains how facing setbacks activates neuroplasticity in the brain, allowing for growth and improvement.

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What they’re saying

“Essentially, mistakes aren't roadblocks; they're opportunities for the brain to rewire itself for future success.”

— Renee Exelbert, Licensed psychologist and certified personal trainer

What’s next

Runners who had a disappointing performance at the 2021 NYC Marathon may choose to sign up for another race, such as the New York City Half Marathon, as an opportunity to redeem themselves and demonstrate their resilience.

The takeaway

The 2021 NYC Marathon showed that sometimes the greatest gains in running come not from achieving personal bests, but from navigating setbacks and embracing the journey. By practicing self-compassion, focusing on lessons learned, and using subsequent races as platforms for redemption, runners can transform disappointing experiences into opportunities for growth and improvement.