Marshall University Marathon Takes Over Huntington Streets Sunday: What Drivers Need to Know

Lace up, Huntington. The annual Marshall University Marathon hits the streets Sunday morning, and whether you're running it, cheering from the curb or just trying to get across town, here's what you need to know.

The race starts at 7 a.m., and the course stays open until 1 p.m. The event usually draws around 1,800 participants, with runners and visitors coming in from across the region and several states.

Plan ahead if you're driving

The City of Huntington is asking motorists to expect traffic delays and disruptions along the race route throughout Sunday morning. The city's Street Department will post no-parking signs along the marathon route ahead of the event, and any vehicle left in a posted no-parking area on Sunday morning will be towed.

If you live along the route, the city is encouraging residents to pay close attention to the signs and move their vehicles accordingly. A little planning tonight could save you a trip to the tow lot tomorrow.

A tour of the city on foot

The course is a rolling showcase of Huntington. It begins on 3rd Avenue next to Joan C. Edwards Stadium, winds through downtown, runs along the Ohio River and loops through beautiful Ritter Park before heading back to the stadium.

And the finish is one of a kind: runners cross the line at the 50-yard line inside the stadium, the same turf where the Herd plays on fall Saturdays. Ask anybody who's done it and they'll tell you there's nothing quite like that last stretch.

Come out and cheer

The city says it appreciates everyone's patience and cooperation as the community welcomes runners and visitors to town. If you're not running, the sidewalks along the river and through Ritter Park are great spots to cheer folks on with the fall colors as a backdrop.

To everybody toeing the line Sunday morning: good luck, run strong and enjoy every mile. Huntington will be proud to have you.