Philadelphia Marathon Just Hours Away
By Dan Wing
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - It's one of the biggest events of the year in Philadelphia, and a favorite among runners from around the country. The 2013 GOR-TEX Philadelphia Marathon gets started early Sunday morning.
Noted for its flat terrain, beautiful and historic views, and top-notch fans, it's no surprise that the Philadelphia Marathon can be consistently found on many top ten lists each year.
This year should be no different, with an estimated 30,000 participants expected for the 20th annual run through the city streets and historic areas, starting at 22nd Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, which is also the finish line.
The action starts at 6:57 a.m. with wheelchair and handcycles participants, followed by the start time for runners and walkers at 7 a.m.
As is the case every year, thousands of spectators are expected to line the course with more than 20 'Cheer Zones' set up in each section of the city that the marathon passes through. Spectators are asked to give themselves extra time getting there due to increased security precautions.
