New York marathon will go ahead

The New York marathon will go ahead this weekend and it will be dedicated to the victims of Superstorm Sandy and their families.

Mary Wittenberg, chief executive of the race organisers the New York Road Runners (NYRR), hopes that staging the world-famous race, just days after the devastation, will show the "vitality and spirit" of New York City (NYC).

The aim is to aid in recovery and show the city "will be back stronger than ever".

At least 63 people were killed in Monday's superstorm which battered and brought destruction to the US east coast. Police and fire departments, and electricity and transportation organisations are still trying to get the city back on its feet.

Marathon world record holder Paula Radcliffe, a three-time winner of London and New York marathons, tweeted: "If anyone can make a marathon happen on Sunday in a city recovering from a natural catastrophe it is NYRR.

"The city needs the solidarity, the lift and the economic boost that Marathon Sunday brings to NYC. Thoughts go out to everyone on the east coast, Caribbean and beyond."

More than 47,000 people were due at the start line at Staten Island on November 4 but uncertainty remains over how many will be able to make it. Crowds of more than a million spectators, in normal circumstances, flock to the streets of New York's five boroughs to watch.

Charities are usually big winners from the fundraising efforts of many of the runners. Last year's event brought a 340-350 million US dollars boost to New York's economy. Organisers expect a fall in numbers this year.

NYRR said "our sole focus" is now on Sunday's marathon.

The opening ceremony, which had been set to include a parade of nations in Central Park along with a spectacular fireworks display, has been cancelled.