17,000 Runners Train for the 31st Philadelphia Marathon

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Philadelphia Marathon weekend continues on Sunday with the AACR Philadelphia Marathon.

This annual tradition, now in its 31st year, offers runners the opportunity to see some of the best views in the city. But for people driving through the city, this event usually results in serious traffic problems.

The City expects approximately 17,000 runners from our region and around the world to participate in the Philadelphia Marathon.

I’ve always heard it’s a great marathon, great crowds, great way to see the city,” said Brian Stull of Durham, North Carolina.

On Saturday, runners stopped by the Pennsylvania Convention Center to pick up their race bibs and other gear.

“Today we gave out T-shirts to all the runners, they come with bibs and we give them a cute little green bag so they can bring it to the race and run, nice shirts that they can wear and you know, just encourage them. Wish them luck for tomorrow and this is a great opportunity, a great race in Philadelphia – the best,” said Edwin Montooth, a volunteer.

The race begins Sunday at 7 a.m. on Ben Franklin Parkway. Volunteers were busy today making sure runners had everything they needed to compete.

“I think that should have been the biggest result. I actually asked a couple of friends to sign up and it sold out,” said Jennifer Hui, a volunteer.

After the race, the runners planned to rest and gain strength.

“I’m going to try to eat a lot of carbs so I’m ready for tomorrow and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Philadelphia,” said Kerby Boulin of Hyattsville, Maryland.

But some say it’s the protein.

“I love to eat steak or chicken. Protein. I don’t believe in carbs, I don’t eat a lot of carbs,” said Gloria Vasquez of Kissimmee, Florida.

This is from 73-year-old Gloria Vasquez.

Sunday will be her first marathon in Philadelphia, but it will be her 94th marathon overall.

Here’s her advice for running at any age.

“I eat healthy and just love running. I like to run,” Vasquez said.

More than 10,000 runners have completed Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon on Saturday.