RBC Brooklyn Half Celebrates "The Brooklyn Way"

The 2023 RBC Brooklyn Half was a spectacular celebration for more than 25,000 runners who took on an iconic course from Prospect Park to the Coney Island boardwalk in the event's 41st running. Accompanying free youth races showcased the future of the sport.

First run in 1981, the RBC Brooklyn Half is the largest half marathon in the country and serves as a kickoff to summer for the communities of Brooklyn. The course takes in the unique and diverse neighborhoods of Brooklyn, beginning at the Brooklyn Museum, passing the scenic Grand Army Plaza, and running through Prospect Park and along Ocean Parkway to a celebratory finish on the Coney Island boardwalk.

“This race is truly a highlight on NYRR’s racing calendar as our premier event in Brooklyn, a borough we are present in year-round with our free community programs for youth, seniors, and everyone in between,” said Ted Metellus, NYRR’s Senior Vice President of Events and Race Director.

At the start, Metellus reminded runners that Brooklyn’s motto is “Unity Makes Strength.”

“That’s one of the things I want you to hold onto as you make your way through your 13.1 miles,” he said. “That’s the Brooklyn way. In this world where so many people are looking for community, we come together today with smiles on our faces and good vibes in our hearts.”

Conditions were cool and damp, with overcast skies at the start and light rain at the finish. The top runners clocked fast times with exciting finishes, especially in the men’s race, where Yenew Alamirew Getahun of West Side Runners broke the tape in 1:03:05, just ahead of runner-up Juan Luis Barrios Nieves of United Mexican Runners of New York, who clocked 1:03:07.

The top women’s finisher was Maggie Montoya of Salomon Running in 1:11:38, with Mia Behm second in 1:12:54. The top non-binary finisher was Galo Vasquez of Westchester Track Club in 1:12:05, with Jacob Caswell second in 1:17:56.

All finishers were cheered en route by local clubs and crews supporting not only their teammates but everyone working to complete their 13.1 miles. In addition, over 1,600 volunteers supported runners from start to finish.

Hundreds of runners raised funds for Team for Kids to support NYRR’s youth and community programs. TFK has raised over $100 million since 2002.

The free Boardwalk Kids Run at the RBC Brooklyn Half for youth ages 8-18 took place on a 1500-meter out-and-back course alongside the half marathon route, showcasing the future of the sport. Adult runners and other supporters cheered the kids on.

The event's title partner is Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), a purpose-driven global financial institution that, similar to NYRR, is strongly committed to giving back to communities.

Congratulations to all finishers, and thank you to our partners, New York City agencies, volunteers, NYRR staff, and supporters!

Check out amazing race-day photos here, official RBC Brooklyn Half results here, and Boardwalk Kids Run at the RBC Brooklyn Half - Stage 3 results here.