American wins NYC Marathon for first time since 1982

Meb Keflezighi on Sunday became the first American to win the New York City marathon in 27 years.

Keflezighi’s unexpected victory shocked the commentators and thrilled the audience as he crossed the finish line in New York City’s Central Park for the 40th running of the marathon.

Keflezighi, an Eritrean-born American, clocked a personal best time of 2:09:15. American Ryan Hall was a favorite to lead the U.S. runners but was upset by Keflezighi, who had been plagued by injuries in recent years as some wondered if he was “over the hill.” Keflezighi’s historic victory silenced the doubters.

The last American to win the marathon was Alberto Salazar in 1982.