This weekend, the California International Marathon is set to electrify the streets of Sacramento as over 10,000 runners gear up for a challenging yet exhilarating 26.2-mile journey from Folsom to downtown. What makes this marathon particularly exciting is that it serves as both the U.S. Track&Field Marathon Championship and a qualifying event for the Boston Marathon. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant, the energy is contagious, and there’s a hum of anticipation in the air.
Runners have flocked to Cal Expo to collect their race packets and soak in the experience ahead of this major race day. With perfect weather on the horizon, it seems all signs point to an unforgettable event. Local runners like Erica Chan are particularly excited about the course, looking forward to the support from the Casa Robles Junior Rams as they cheer along the route. For those like Sergio Zumpano, it’s not just about finishing, but also about the opportunity to hit personal records.
The marathon experience goes beyond the miles—it’s about the camaraderie that forms among participants. As Suzanne Cardenas, a CIM volunteer, cleverly puts it,“It is a community; we all have one goal to make it to that finish line.”To warm up before the big day, runners can participate in a two-mile shakeout run on Saturday morning, adding a bit of fun to their preparations. With so much excitement leading into the marathon, who wouldn’t want to lace up their shoes and join in the fun?
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Andrew Johnson
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