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New York City’s annual marathon has been canceled.

After facing criticism for choosing to go forward with the race, in spite of the damaged caused by Superstorm Sandy, Mayor Michael Bloomberg up and changed his mind.

“We have decided to cancel the NYC marathon. The New York Road Runners will have additional information in days ahead for participants,” the mayor’s office tweeted Friday (Nov. 2) afternoon.

Bloomberg initially argued that continuing the marathon was a show of resilience, and necessary for the city in wake of Sandy’s aftermath. But opposition came from all sides with everyone from local residents, to New York Borough President Scott Stringer.  “When we fight for our city, we also have to recognize that this time it’s about helping New Yorkers, not the marathon,” Stringer said during an appearance on NBC’s TODAY show. “We’ll come back and do that another time.”

Among those joining in the outcry was the borough of Staten Island, where the race was set to begin. The community was among those hardest hit by Sandy, with 19 death reported as of early Friday.

The New York City marathon brings in approximately $340 million to the city, with roughly 1,000 participants spending money on hotels, entertainment, food, and other expenses.

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Photo: The Gloss