Runners might not be the only thing running on fumes at the Big Sur International Marathon

A marathon is 26.2 miles, which also happens to be the distance from Big Sur to Carmel. The annual trek has been going on since the 80’s and has grown to a remarkable 10,000 participants.

“In 1986 we had about 1800 runners doing the marathon only. And yes over the years we’ve grown, but we’ve been capped at this number for many years,” said Big Sur International Marathon Marketing and Communications Director Julie Armstrong.

The Big Sur International Marathon is more than just a race, it’s the total experience.

“We have a beer tent, a soup area, we have a massage tent, a medical tent, some hospitality areas and even a merchandise tent for people to get last minute souvenirs,” said Armstrong.

Traffic will be restricted Sunday 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. from Sycamore Canyon Road to Carmel.

“We would love for people to come down to the area to watch and cheer on the runners, which definitely helps them. If someone doesn’t need to come down, you might just want to avoid it,” said Armstrong

According to the California Highway Patrol motorists should expect delays of up to two hours.