An estimated 40,000 runners from around the world were expected to take part in the event on Sunday, but New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg yielded to mounting criticism.
Dan McCauley's friends were on a New York-bound plane when they heard the news.
"These friends of mine who are doing the event are extremely focused and they've been looking forward to this literally since they did it last year. But that being said, they can do it next year," said McCauley.
But others who made the trip aren't so understanding.
Jennie Olshaske traveled to Manhattan to support her brother Sean, a cancer survivor, who is running to raise money for research.
"Just 24 hours ago, we could have got refunded for this condo. They would have been refunded on their hotel room. We would have gotten complimentary vouchers from Delta," said Olshaske. "We respect the decision and we understand the decision -- it's simply the timing that's a bit unfortunate."
Organizers will donate various items that had been brought in for the race, such as food and portable toilets, to relief efforts. They say they're sticking to their no-refund policy for runners, but they will guarantee entry to next year's race.
Wednesday, June 19 2013 11:19 PM EDT2013-06-20 03:19:10 GMT
A police officer, a deputy and a nurse are being called heroes for saving an elderly man's life.
A police officer, a deputy and a nurse are being called heroes for saving an elderly man's life. The man had a medical emergency and the three first-responders were in the right place at the right time.
Wednesday, June 19 2013 10:27 PM EDT2013-06-20 02:27:20 GMT
Georgia's right to life group is in a dispute with the national pro-lifers.
Georgia's right to life group is in a dispute with the national pro-lifers. The Georgia group has campaigned against a new far-reaching House bill on abortion because it says that the bill doesn't save enough lives.
Jennie Olshaske (far right) traveled to Manhattan to support her brother, Sean (in blue), who was set to run in the NY Marathon.
