Local Runners Gear Up For Upcoming Pittsburgh Marathon
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) --- Let the countdown begin--- we're just 10 days away from the Pittsburgh marathon.
Runners on the North Shore say they were not intimidated by the Boston marathon bombings last week, which killed three people, and injured more than 250 others.
"Of course, you think about what took place, but I don't think it's slowing down anything," says Tim Rogers of Franklin Park. "I'm ready to race, and I believe other runners are, too."
The Pittsburgh marathon is scheduled for May 5, 2013. 27,000 people are signed up and thousands more will line the streets of Pittsburgh to cheer on the runners.
Hector Laureano is now living in Pittsburgh, after moving here from New York City about 7 years ago.
"I've been continuing to do this since last July," Laureano says. "I was going to do half a marathon, but, then some people at work asked me if I wanted to take part in a relay, and I said that'd be good on a first step basis."
Laureano says the marathon will be his first. He also says he was not swayed by the bombings in Boston.
Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Michael Huss says security plans for the marathon are still evolving, but the city is relying on Pittsburghers to help keep things running smoothly.
"With this 26-mile event, throughout the entire city basically, we're going to rely on the people of Pittsburgh to help us in our security," Huss says. "If they see something suspicious call 911. Be our eyes and ears.
Along the marathon's 26-mile route, things like trash cans and newspaper boxes will be removed temporarily for safety sake, and clear, plastic bags will be given to runners for their gear.
Spectators are being urged not to bring backpacks.
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