PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia Marathon Weekend has returned this year, after a virtual event last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Saturday saw runners take on the Patriot Challenge, an 8k run and half-marathon. The full marathon takes place on Sunday.
After showing proof of vaccination status, runners went to pick up their bibs at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
“It's nice to have it in person," said Anthony Clinton of Allentown, who signed up for the full marathon. "It's always nice to run against people. You don't want to be the only one out there because everyone is going to motivate you. Even the crowd around you will motivate you to do better.
Courtney Doherty, from New Haven, Connecticut said she felt safe running the Patriot Challenge.
"The COVID protocols were fantastic for the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend. I love Philly," she said.
"Between the fact that people are getting vaccinated and the protocols that the race directors put into place, it was all good," added Mary Regalbuto, from Milford, Connecticut.
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The marathon is a lot smaller this year. In 2019, there were more than 80 vendors, according to Judith Logan White, the marathon's expo director. This year, there are about 20.
"Some didn't have enough product because of shipping issues, thing like that, the timing," she explained. "Also getting people to work the booths. There are a lot of other issues, but they said '[In 2022], we'll be back.'"
Despite the smaller size this year, White said the event is still a financial boon to Philadelphia. "People coming into the city, it has a large economic impact on the city [with] hotel rooms, restaurants," she said.
Bill Rodgers, who won the marathon in 1974, wasn't running this year, but had sage advice for participants.
"My advice for marathoners is to ease into the first half of the race," suggested Rodgers, also a four-time Boston Marathon winner as well as a four-time New York Marathon champion.
"Take your time because [it's] 26 miles and 385 yards. And the weather is gonna be good, so that makes it easier in cool weather. This is not a hot weather sport ... so having it in November is ideal."