Not all Big Sur marathoners who started early finished early

The race kicked off after 6 a.m., and marathoners had to be bused to Big Sur as early as 3:30 a.m.

“I was able to muddle through with vitamin I, which is ibuprofen and a lot of mental work,” said runner Therese Kollerer.

While some runners perfected their technique to finish the 31st annual Big Sur International Marathon in less than three hours, others took a ‘slow and steady wins the race’ approach.

“We probably finish last because we go halfway up, stop for brunch and then come back,” said Sandy Bergam who ran in the race.

Even though they came in at the last leg of the race, runners we spoke to say it was not about the time.

“It was a bucket list marathon,” said marathoner Jennifer Adam. “I got into the lottery and I had to do it.”

One couple took on the challenge from Big Sur to Carmel to strengthen their bond.

“She stayed with me the whole time, she could have been way in front, so yes it brought us closer,” said Eric Dante.

Others ran the 26 miles to support organizations, celebrate anniversaries, birthdays and other milestones.

“I came in which was the accomplishment we were looking for,” said runner Gary Merrill.

Out of the thousands that crossed the finish line, Elisa Restea and Maria Raptis were the last two racers to officially cross the finish line after 1:00 pm.

‘”That bus was literally right behind us, literally for like that last mile,” said Raptis. “We were just like oh my God.”

There was no finish line for Restea who came very last.

“I didn’t know if I’d make it, so the race was pretty emotional,” said Restea.

She told KION for her just running in the race was its own win.

Runners also told us going slow allowed them to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Central Coast.