BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- It's going to be a marathon weekend in Binghamton. For the first time, the city is welcoming runners for a 26-mile trek throughout the city and surrounding areas.
To many, running a marathon might seem like a grueling task, but nearly 100 runners can't wait to get running in the first ever Greater Binghamton Marathon on Sunday.
They'll start and finish at 3000 Old Vestal Road, with 26.2 miles in between.
The runners get going around 7:30 a.m. and spectators are encouraged to come out and cheer them on. There will be music and food at the finish line, along with free medal engraving for all participants.
For race organizers, just being able to put this on shows the community is already running in the right direction.
"Having out first marathon in Binghamton, it shows to me there's growth, and there's a possibility that the community's going to grow as a whole and be a healthier, more fit, well-rounded community, and that's why I want the community to grow," said Will Safarik, race director.
This is not a closed course, meaning the runners will be on main roads like Routes 434 and 17C. Organizers warn those traveling in the area to keep an eye out for traffic changes on Sunday, though no roads will actually be closed.
Registration is open until Sunday morning, so anyone who feels up for a challenge is encouraged to sign up.