Two days after a pickup truck struck and killed eight people in Lower Manhattan in what the authorities called a terrorist attack, runners preparing for the New York City Marathon on Sunday sought to beat back anxiety as the police announced additional security measures.
Competitors picking up their race materials yesterday chatted excitedly about the course and the doughnuts, beer, pizza and other rewards they would treat themselves to after they crossed the finish line, reported the New York media.
But, many also admitted that the attack, which occurred on a bike path along the Hudson River, rattled them and left them hoping race organizers and the police were doing everything possible to keep the event safe.
Carlos Gomez, the chief of police department, said there would be more sand trucks and other vehicles to block intruders from entering the course. Gomez also said the department had doubled the number of rooftop observation posts and counter-sniper teams in ALL five boroughs. More uniformed police officers, counter-terrorism officers and police dogs will patrol the event.
Since the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, in which three people were killed at the finish line, security at New York’s marathon has increased. Runners are NO longer allowed to run in baggy costumes that could conceal weapons. Backpack water containers and other bags are prohibited; runners may carry only a clear plastic bag provided by race organizers.
More than 50,000 runners from more than 125 countries and ALL 50 states are expected to pass before some 2.5 million spectators.
Lobster on the Prairie 
Bill –
Like your column. Like the way you write – in a conversational, common vernacular type of way. Much like I have and have tried to write for years and years. I signed up as a regular recipient of your blog.
Greg Zuercher