Four years ago this week brought about one of my favorite moments in NYC. Perhaps one of the favorite moments of my life. I watched Super Bowl 42 in Midtown. The heavy underdog New York Giants vs. the near-perfect New England Patriots. An unprecedented, unexpected David vs. Goliath matchup. When the Giants pulled off a victory marking one of the greatest spectacles in American professional sports, New York City erupted into a madhouse.
The reaction was nothing short of euphoric. People streamed out of the bars along 2nd and 3rd Avenues, bringing car traffic to a halt. The roar of the crowd and of apartment dwellers opening their windows to scream in jubilation could be heard for blocks in every direction, overwhelming the sound of honking cars. A walk along the streets that night felt like a scene out of Bourbon Street at the peak time of Mardi Gras (minus the beads and a little less booze). The subway back to Astoria was a rancorous party of hi-fives, cheers, and chants. Complete strangers enjoying each other’s company.
I have experienced other championships and celebrations in NYC. Yet nothing comes close to that Sunday night in February 2008. (And I was in Times Square when the Yankees last won the World Series in 2009.) I hope to experience something similar to that this evening. For everyone heading out to watch the game tonight, have fun and stay safe.
Those who know me well know that lately I have been rooting more for New York’s team that wears dark green, but it is hard not to like this year’s Giants. Go GIANTS!
