Runners from around the globe participate in Miami Marathon’s 20th anniversary (includes video story)

More than 15,000 runners from across the world hit the finish line as Sunday marked Miami Marathon’s 20th anniversary.

“People from all over, different countries, different states, all ages, which that was impressive to me, seeing people from 15 years old all the way to 60 to 70 years old,” shared Miami Marathon staff member Joe Cervantes. “That’s impressive also. A lot of people wearing their shirts from their actual country, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Mexico.”

The half marathon started in front of the FTX Arena, continued to Ocean Drive, traveled through downtown and then ended at Bayfront Park. The full, 26.2-mile marathon also included much of Coconut Grove. It was canceled last year because of the pandemic.

Some of the 12,000-plus runners shared how they prepared weeks, months, and even years in advance for this event.

“I started training in October and then I’ve done one or two races every month leading up to this,” shared participant Stacie Huelat. “This is probably the 20th half marathon I’ve done, and I’ve done 10 full marathons.”

Some first responders also took part in the event, serving those around them while running for a cause.

“We were very moved by the first responders, and it shows the heart of the people in this community,” said fan Amy Kerwin.

The runners received medals and special prizes for their participation.

Zitlali Solache is a student in Florida International University, pursuing her Masters degree in Spanish-Language Broadcast Journalism. Zitlali Solache is Mexican American and has a passion for storytelling and news. She has interned for WPBT PBS, WSVN Channel 7 and STEP Univision. After graduation, Zitlali aspires to become a reporter/anchor in her hometown Miami, FL.