(November 2000) This main event puts our ARES group to the ultimate test each year. All resources, human and otherwise, need to be orchestrated into a well timed symphony. There will always be an out of tune or broken instrument during play, yet the overall performance always proceeds and usually ends in a crescendo of applause. Well, after standing too close to the cannon, I kind of heard that applause for the remainder of the morning anyway.
Click on thumbnails for larger photos courtesy of Joe, N2TEE.
Some of the elite runners waiting patiently near the start trying to get the butterflies out of their stomachs. Actually, they were probably huddling together for warmth since it was a very blustery morning.
Some anxious moments just minutes prior to the cannon going off signaling the start of this world renowned race.
New York's Bravest waiting their turn to trip the timing devices at the start.
Heavy artillery, courtesy of the U.S. Army, ready for firing by the Deputy Mayor of New York City.
You definitely want to be out of the way when the stampede comes passing by. To say the very least, I more than flinched when that cannon went off, but I was able to "pucker" fast enough to avoid having to throw out my jeans. 
The mass of humanity doing their best to enhance the sways and vibrations on the bridge.Only a sailor can truly appreciate those beautiful fluffy clouds.
And I thought only reptiles could shed their skins this quickly.
After a job well done, a moment to contemplate what just took place. A massive event as such, is not a thing you will forget easily. The charged atmosphere makes you want to come back for more, year after year.