2019 Big Sur International Marathon brings thousands to Central Coast
27-year-old, Jordan Tropf, broke through the tape at the finish line of this year’s Big Sur Marathon. Tropf took home a first place medal and an experience he will never forget. “When it got hard, I just looked out onto the water. It was absolutely beautiful,” said Tropf.
Tropf, from Silver Spring, Maryland, ran all 26 miles in just two hours and 25 minutes. The female lead wasn’t too far behind. D’Ann Arthur, from Redondo Beach, crossed the finish line, 24 minutes later. “I just came out here to have fun and enjoy the scenery. The energy is so amazing,” said Arthur.
Although the athletes make it look easy, the scenic course is far from it. Runners face wavering heights and rough terrain. Tropf recalled his toughest moments. “Hurricane Point, I was ready for. I knew it was coming and crushed it, but those Highlands just catch you off guard,” said Tropf.
One of the most iconic points in the race is Bixby Bridge. It marks the halfway point for marathon runners. Runners said its beauty keeps them coming back year, after year. “It’s just beautiful. I just want to get out there, take some pictures, and enjoy myself,” said runner, Lacey Balliet.
Organizers said the tradition will continue. The event brings nearly 9,000 people together, from all over the world. “It’s a great economic impact for our community. It’s thousands of people seeing our beautiful area and hopefully coming back later, as tourists and vacationers,” said Big Sur Marathon Race Director, Doug Thurston.
