PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – The Philadelphia Marathon Race gets underway on Sunday.

More than 27,000 runners and 60,000 spectators are expected to turn out for the 18th Annual Philadelphia Marathon on Sunday. The race was selected by Runner’s World magazine as this year’s challenge race, which gave Philadelphia runners the opportunity to be coached by marathon experts.

Mayor Michael Nutter says he will be front and center at the start line, giving high-fives as folks set out on the 26.2 mile course.

“I am certainly inspired that morning to admire the training and commitment and dedication that the runners have.”

The city has planned a number of events leading up to the marathon, including a free two-day health and fitness expo at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, as well as the Rothman Institute 8K and the Arctic Ease Kids Fun Run.

For more information, go to philadelphiamarathon.com.

Reported By Cherri Gregg, KYW Newsradio