Runners Get Ready for Steamtown Marathon

"Through our internet space, through word of mouth from people that have run this race we've gotten a really good reputation. Plus, Runners World has ranked us in three different categories as one of the top ten best marathons in the country," said Steamtown Marathon Race Director Bill King.

Marathon runner Paul Skinner said, "The reason I'm coming here is because I think it's a great marathon." Mr. Skinner from New York city is back for his third Steamtown Marathon. "First of all it's a great course. And then also it's a small marathon so it just feels like it's not like one of those huge events like New York City," he said.

The Steamtown Marathon takes runners on a 26 point 2 mile course from Forest City Regional High School to Downtown Scranton. Not everyone who runs is a veteran marathoner. Eyewitness News Daybreak anchor Kyla Campbell is among those who are eager to run their first.

"They are so excited to be here. They ask 5 million questions but in general they're all like oh yay it's a good day, it's nice and cool, we're psyched, we're ready," said Steamtown Marathon registrar Anne Gallagher.

Tom Height of Nescopeck got limbered up for his first marathon. "It's been a goal of mine for about four years and finally was able to fit enough training in over the summer to get one done," he said.

American marathon champ Kim Jones of Fort Collins, Colorado was on hand to sign her autobiography, "Dandelion Growing Wild". She has advice for anyone who dreams of one day doing a marathon. "You just need to keep trying and working at it. With hard work and determination anything is possible."