On your mark, get set, runners are ready to ‘go’ for the 40th year of the Detroit Free Press Marathon.
As participants make their final preparations, Detroit police are making their final preparations to make sure the event is safe for everyone.
If you’re running in the event or coming to watch, there are some things you need to know. The race will start Sunday morning, but the race to keep everyone safe - has already started.
Thousands of dollars are up for grabs in the marathon, as runners get ready for a course that begins at fort street near First Avenue, traveling through downtown Detroit, then runners will cross into Canada then back to the U.S.
As expected this year security will be a top priority with all eyes on keeping the marathon safe for runners and spectators. Also happening a race against human trafficking.
Veronica Coker, the director of an organization called Love Run, will be raising money to bring awareness to human trafficking - something huge events like this unfortunately bring with it.
You’ll also notice an increased police presence everywhere you look and at every corner, directing runners.
To keep spectators safe, a few rules you need to know:
- Do not wear or bring backpacks or duffle bags.
- Only the clear bags, given to participants at packet pickup, are allowed.
- Only runners with bibs will be allowed in the area of the starting line.
- Do not leave bags, backpacks or items left unattended. Anything left unattended will be removed by security personnel.
As far as the heavy police presence and added security, runners competing say - in light of the tragic events in Las Vegas - it’s very much needed and very much welcome.
Saturday afternoon, Detroit Police Chief James Craig will outline some additional security measures that will be in place for the big race.
