Runners Take Part In Historic Marathon

EL PASO, Tx- Runners came from all over the US and Mexicoto take part in the first ever El Paso Marathon on Sunday.

First time runners and seasoned marathon runners of all ages were all on hand to help usher in this historic event for the Sun City.

For many of the runners, training for the event began months ago, and those who finished the race, crossed the line battered and tired, but with smiles on their faces.

One Army soldier who just returned from Iraqtells ABC-7 that placing third in the marathon has him ecstatic, “Fort Bliss is where I’m from…I was like, El Paso has a first annual race, I got to go.I’m happy to be here.”

Although not everyone laced up their sneakers for the 26.2 mile run, some preferred to strap on sandals.

Several Tarahumaras decided to join in on El Paso’s first marathon. Tarahumaras are Mexican indigenous people from Northern Mexico, renowned for their long-distance running ability. With widely dispersed settlements in Chihuahua, the Tarahumaras developed a tradition of running inter village communication and transportation.

One Tarahumara runner came in at third place in the marathon.

Winners of both the half and full marathons received gifts including medals, money, and watches for the best male and female over-all runners, worth $500.