City marathons are a burgeoning trend, drawing large crowds and injecting capital into local economies. Increasingly sponsored by corporations, these races are evolving into popular social and sporting events. While the initiatives offer notable economic advantages, the article suggests a more complex picture exists – a “bitter side” alluded to in the original title. The piece highlights the growing number of marathon events hosted by cities and the positive impact on communities. Further details regarding these challenges and a comprehensive exploration of both benefits and drawbacks are expected in the full article, published on Daily News. The increasing popularity indicates a cultural shift towards greater participation in urban athletic events.