After a small hiccup in last year’s running of the Costa Rica Marathon in which there was a last-minute change in the start time, race directors feel confident that Sunday’s marathon will take off without a problem.
More than 2,000 runners are expected at the starting line for the 14th running of the Costa Rica Marathon. Participants include runners from the United States, Italy and other faraway destinations.
During a press conference on Wednesday, race directors said most of the runners will participate in the half-marathon, a 13.1 mile race through the streets of San José, with an estimated 300 running the full 26.2 race.
Two days before race day in 2008, the administration of President Oscar Arias moved the start time up an hour, causing confusion among the participants.
“This year, we don’t expect any problems,” said Guillermo Sáenz, race director. “Despite the change in time, many foreigners enjoyed the race and are returning this year.”
Sáenz said the marathon is backed by more than $14,370 in sponsorships that help defray the cost for runners.
Today (before 5 p.m.) is the last day to register for the 4 km, 8 km, 21 km (half-marathon) and 42 km (full marathon). The cost is ¢10,000 ($17.50) for the longer two races and includes a T-shirt and medal.
Runners can register at Tienda Gloria on Avenida Central, NewtonStoreCenter near Canal 7 on the main road to Pavas and the Timex store on Paseo Colón. The race will begin at 8 a.m. Sunday near the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) next to La Sabana Park.
For more information, visit www.marathoncostarica.com
–Chrissie Long
