Almost 100,000 apply for the New York City Marathon lottery

A 20 per cent increase in applicants to the non-guaranteed lottery for the 2017 TCS New York City Marathon.

2017 New York City Marathon
2017 New York City Marathon
Photo: Courtesy of NYRR

Almost 100,000 runners applied to enter the 2017 TCS New York City Marathon via the race’s lottery. The New York Road Runners-organized event takes place Nov. 5 with more than 50,000 runners expected to finish the final of the Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2017.

The NYRR announced lottery winners on Thursday with approximately 17 per cent of applicants successfully earning a spot on the coveted start line. There was a 20 per cent increase in applicants compared to 2016.

RELATED: Meb Keflezighi to end pro marathon career in New York City in 2017.

“Today is the beginning of a thrilling race journey to the 2017 TCS New York City Marathon for tens of thousands of runners from across New York City’s five boroughs, throughout the country, and around the world,” said Christine Burke, director of runner products and services at New York Road Runners, on Thursday. “We are honoured to welcome these runners into the 2017 TCS New York City Marathon field, and look forward to supporting them as they embark on an experience of a lifetime en route to November 5.”

RELATED: Memorable moments from the New York City Marathon.

Here’s a look at some of the figures from this year’s lottery and the upcoming race:

98,247

Number of applicants to the non-guaranteed entry drawing. There is no longer a charge to enter the lottery; successful applicants’ credit cards are charged upon acceptance.

16,211

Number of runners in 2017 accepted through the non-guaranteed entry drawing.

20

Per cent increase of applicants in 2017 versus 2016.

50,000

The expected number of finishers at the 2017 TCS New York City Marathon. In addition to entering through the lottery, there are a number of guaranteed methods (for example, those who have completed 15 New York City Marathons or cancelled their 2016 entry) which runners can use to get into the race.

1,100,000

The number of people who have completed the New York City Marathon since the race began in 1970.

Check out the latest buyer's guide:

The best trainers in Canada under $150

We curated the best performance trainers under $150 to meet your 2024 running goals, while staying on budget