Most runners have made a questionable decision halfway through a jog. Taking the longer route. Following someone considerably faster. Agreeing to enter a marathon because it sounded manageable at the time.
Dave Obelkevich joined one already in progress.
In 1973, he encountered the New York City Marathon in Central Park and ran a loop alongside the competitors. The following year, he entered properly. More than half a century later, he is preparing to return for his 50th finish on Sunday, November 1st.
At 83, that has become quite a commitment for something that began without an entry form.
One Loop Became a Habit
The marathon Dave encountered looked very different from today’s event. Before the bridges, the enormous field and the journey through five boroughs, New York’s marathon consisted of repeated loops around Central Park.
His first official finish came in 1974. He returned in 1975 but withdrew after experiencing dizziness.
Then, in 1976, the race expanded across all five boroughs. Dave finished that edition and has completed every edition held on that course since. New York Road Runners identifies him as the only person with that distinction.
What began as an encounter in a park became a permanent fixture in his calendar. Somewhere along the way, the question of entering again stopped needing much discussion.
Even His Streak Nearly Lost to the Entry System
One of the more unlikely threats to Dave’s annual appointment came through the post.
Around 25 years ago, his application was rejected. His wife, Lyn, wrote to New York Road Runners explaining his record of finishes, and he was subsequently granted entry.
It is an unusually persuasive version of “Do you know who my husband is?”
By then, running had become woven into the rest of his life. The former music teacher had made friends through the sport and continued returning to a race that took him through the city he called home.
Another Sunday With Maria
The recent editions have brought different challenges. Dave experienced balance problems as fatigue developed during last year’s marathon, with his daughter Maria helping him through.
She has accompanied him for the past five editions and will be alongside him again this Sunday. His wife and grandsons also hope to support them along the route.
The aim is another finish, adding one more to a collection that began before the marathon had its familiar course.
“I will let my body tell me when my streak is up,” he told New York Road Runners, “and I hope that is a long time from now.”
For now, retirement will have to wait. Dave has plans on Sunday.
Dave’s Story at New York Road Runners | 2026 Team Inspire Profile
Image: New York Road Runners
