The 96th annual Yonkers Marathon is set to begin at the city’s waterfront on Sunday.

Thousands of runners are expected to line up at 8 a.m. to take part.

The Yonkers Marathon is the second oldest marathon in the United States, after the Boston Marathon. The first marathon was held on Thanksgiving in 1907.

The event is known for its tough course, which starts at the Riverfront Library, sends runners through the hills of Yonkers, along the Hudson River and back to the library again.

The Yonkers Running Project is a running team that will be front and center for the race. Members have been training hard for Sunday. They also say there is more to the sport than meets the eye.

"The mental health benefits of running are just as important if not more or greater than the physical benefits,” said Kevin Phipps.

People who plan to participate say taking part in the race is about setting goals, pushing yourself and having a good time.

"We do it for fun, we do it for the community, we do it for health,” said a runner.

Yonkers Parks Commissioner Steve Sansone says people do not need to be runners to enjoy the event.

"You can come out and cheer. We've got water stations, a lot of volunteers out on the street. So, please come out,” he said.

Officials say there will be some road closures and detours starting about an hour before the race.