72 Miles, 2 Days, 1 Tired New Yorker: My Epic Athletic Weekend 🚶🏻♂️ 🚴🏻♂️
A year ago, I got the idea to do something wild—walk 32 miles around Manhattan on a Saturday, then bike 40 miles through all five boroughs of New York City the very next day. As the first weekend of May got closer, I'll admit, doubt crept in. Back-to-back endurance events? What was I thinking?
But I trained for the walk like it was a marathon! (Yes, there are training plans for walking marathons!) I did daily speed walks and long weekend treks—including a 20-mile walk around Central Park.
When I missed registration for The Great Saunter, Shorewalkers' epic 32-mile shoreline walk around Manhattan, I emailed the CEO directly, explaining my year-long plan and how I couldn't believe I'd missed registration. To my delight, she welcomed me to join the walk. (Thank you again!)
It was a beautiful walk hugging the shoreline of my favorite borough—Manhattan (sorry, Brooklyn and the Bronx 😅). The 32-mile route winds through over 20 parks, offering a rare and scenic tour of Manhattan's green spaces. Navigating the path solo for long stretches, I found myself near the front of the pack. The volunteers were amazing—offering encouragement, guidance, and good vibes that lifted everyone's spirits. It took me 8 hours to finish—faster than the average of 10 hours, but I was just focused on keeping a steady pace. The 38th annual Great Saunter reminded us that not every challenge needs a finish line clock, as there was no clock. With 3,012 people registered and 1,773 completing the full 32-mile circuit, it was a powerful testament to determination, community, and the spirit of walking NYC’s edges—with help from the incredible volunteers along the way.
It wasn't until I got home that a nasty blister decided to make its grand entrance—like an uninvited guest after the party. Thankfully, my friend Anthony, who always brings a great, positive spirit, helped me power through the next day's adventure: the Five Boro Bike Tour.
This 40-mile ride gives cyclists a rare chance to explore NYC car-free—from lower Manhattan through Central Park, the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, and finishing on Staten Island after crossing five major bridges. We passed through neighborhoods bursting with flavor, culture, and even live music from community groups along the route.
Together, this 72-mile journey was a powerful reminder of this city's beauty, grit, and spirit—and of what's possible with a little planning, a lot of grit, and a whole bunch of water.
My feet may still be mad at me, but my heart's already asking, "What's next?"
