Early last weekend morning, around 100 runners gathered in an abandoned stadium in the Bronx's Van Cortlandt Park at 1 a.m. They were dressed like characters from the 1979 cult movie 'The Warriors' and took part in the Warriors UltraRun, an unsanctioned, underground race.
The event is inspired by Walter Hill's film about a New York City gang pursued across the city. Runners wore costumes mimicking the film's colorful gangs and carried running vests, gels, and electrolytes for the long-distance challenge. The race is annual and not officially permitted, drawing a small but dedicated crowd of ultramarathon enthusiasts and fans of the movie.
While the exact distance and route were not disclosed, participants ran through the park in the dark. The organizer, known simply as 'The Ghost,' started the race over a decade ago as a tribute to the film's theme of endurance and survival. Runners must find the start location via social media clues, adding to the event's secrecy.
One runner described the experience as both a physical test and a homage to the film's rebellious spirit. The race concluded with a gathering where participants shared stories and photos. Despite its unofficial status, no incidents were reported.