The Erie Marathon, known for its flat terrain and as a Boston Marathon qualifier, attracted 1,168 runners from 26 countries and 46 states this year.

Organized by the Erie Runners Club, the marathon is celebrated for its unique environment and is one of the last chances for runners to qualify for the Boston Marathon each year.

"We get a beautiful peninsula. What's not to like?" said Janina Lee from the Marathon Committee. "You don't get this at a lot of other marathons. If you were to go to Pittsburgh...very hilly"

Runner Kwami shared his motivation, saying, "I love the feeling of freedom. I love knowing that my own two legs can take me 26.6 miles in any direction."

Melissa Erkel, another runner, highlighted the significance of completing a marathon, stating, "Less than one percent of t

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