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2009 Pittsburgh Marathon

Photo Finish: Pgh. Marathon 2009
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Pittsburghers Provide Support For Marathon Runners

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May 3, 2009 11:59 pm US/Eastern

Pittsburghers Provide Support For Marathon Runners

MORE: Photo Finish: Pittsburgh Marathon 2009

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― After months of training, participants in the Dick's Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon 2009 have something to be proud of after completing the more than 26-mile run.

There was extensive planning, numerous street closures and with more than 10,000 people signed up, there was clearly no shortage of interest in Sunday's big event through the streets of Pittsburgh.

For the most part, organizers say the 20th marathon in the city went off with very few hitches.

"I was very excited that the marathon made a return after five or six years. I remember always going to see the marathon when I was a kid living in Homewood-Brushton," said spectator Michelle Massie, of Highland Park. "I wanted to go out and support my neighborhood and support these wonderful runners doing a great thing for our city."

While the route may have been different, the 26.2 mile distance was the same.

However, the event was about more than running. It became about history, which could be found across the city.

"We're under the tent; we've got Three Rivers Stadium seats. It's inspiring," said spectator Ruth Hendricks, of Highland Park. "We've got coffee, food and good friends and we're trying to cheer these people on in the rain so they have a good day."

Pittsburgh neighborhoods rallied their support from the North Side to Bloomfield. And even though marathon running isn't new to the city there were some first time fans in the crowd.

"I love anything that involves sports, especially active sports like this, the average citizen just trying to give it their personal best," said another spectator. "I think it's thrilling to be outside. I'm thrilled to be here."

Less than three hours after it all started, the first runners began to cross the finish line.

Race officials say Kassahun Kabiso, a native of Ethiopia, now living in Washington D.C., finished first for the men, and Kristin Price, of Raleigh, North Carolina, finished first for the women.

However, organizers did say there were about 16 people taken to the hospital, with two being treated and released.

Also, about 30 to 40 people were treated at stations along the way and 120 treated at the finish line.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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