Finishing the 26.2-mile New York Marathon is not a goal most people achieve, but for NIU photographer George Tarbay, that dream became a reality.

Tarbay, who works in the Art/Photo Department, said running the streets of New York with about 22,000 other athletes Nov. 1 was an incredible experience.

“Crossing the finish line was one of the greatest experiences I ever had,” he said. “You feel like you have accomplished something.”

Tarbay finished with a time of 3 hours and 46 minutes, about an hour and 36 minutes behind the winner.

Participants included those who came from 80 countries, handicapped individuals who competed in wheelchairs and one man who had no legs and used his hands.

aving participated in three Chicago and two St. Louis marathons, Tarbay said it is “very exciting” to run through different communities and hear the runners being cheered on.

“It is real painful for the last five miles, but the excitement of the race overcomes it,” he said.

Tarbay said the marathon is a physical challenge similar to climbing Mt. Everest. To prepare for the race, he said he ran 20 miles a week but increased that to 40 miles a week for the two weeks preceding the marathon.

Ten years of running has allowed him to compete in such marathons, but Tarbay advised beginners to “start real slow.” Most beginners have the tendency to go fast and it is not helpful, he said. To participate in a marathon, one must run for a couple of years.

Tarbay’s next marathon will be Nov. 23 in St. Louis.

e said the advantages of running include keeping in good shape, having low blood pressure and maintaining a heart rate of about 48-50.