Beginning 6:30 a.m. Saturday, thousands of runners will put all their training to the test.
"We have people from all 50 states. We have people from 3 different countries, including Singapore and 45 people from Canada," said Mike Shank, a marathon organizer.
Hours before the marathon, workers are busy putting the final touches on the main event.
Barricades are in line, tents are up, and there's plenty of signs showing runners where to go.
At the Runners Expo Friday night you could feel the anticipation for this weekends events.
Runners say the location, weather, and flat course makes it an ideal race.
"I'm really excited, walked along the beach today, and I hear most of the race is along the beach, so I'm really excited to run it tomorrow," said Colleen McGinty. She's in town from Indiana with two other friends who are participating in the marathon.
Whether you can run 3.1 miles like Friday night's 5k or the full 26.2, there's a race that fits everyone's preference.
"I love running 5K's. I'm trying to improve my speed and time," said Kerri Partin of Surfside Beach.
Runners say it's not just a test of physical endurance, but it's a mental one as well.
"The first mile and a half for me is the hardest. If i can get through that, I think I can run as much as I want to. It's always the first mile that's tough," added Partin.
When McGinty's runs, she uses it as an opportunity to meet new people. "I like finding someone when I'm running to talk to and getting to know, because there's people from all over that comes to these things."
The race is timed, but everyone gets a medal for crossing the finish line.
"Knowing at the end that I've accomplished something that most people don't do or can't do," added McGinty.
"Whether you're first or last, I think that's what make the marathon and running different from other sports. That you can finish in last place, but it's what it means to you personally," said Shank.
If you're thinking about running a half or a full marathon, those we talked with say you should find a good training program. And above all else just have fun with it.
