New York mayor cancels marathon after fierce criticism

The New York City Marathon was last night cancelled by Mayor Michael Bloomberg after mounting criticism that this was not the time for a race while the region is still recovering from Superstorm Sandy.

With people in storm-ravaged areas still shivering without electricity and the death toll in New York City at more than 40, many residents recoiled at the prospect of police officers being assigned to protect the marathon tomorrow.

An estimated 40,000 runners from around the world had been expected to take part in the 26.2-mile event. The race was to start in Staten Island, one of the hardest-hit areas of this week’s storm.