For the First to Run, A Separate Peace.

The New York City Marathon welcomed its 47,438 runners on Sunday with a sprawling village on Staten Island where loudspeakers blared directions in English, German and French. Refreshment stands offered bagels and coffee. Grassy lawns beckoned runners to huddle in a sleeping bag while they waited for the marathon to begin. But for the elite runners who actually had a shot at winning the race, there was a back entrance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]