A record 6,500 runners and walkers took over Pittsburgh streets Nov. 8 for the sold-outEQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler & 10K,turning roads and bridges into a course through the heart of the city.
Participants from 33 states and six countries took part in the race, according to a community announcement. The turnout was the largest in the event's history, with the course carrying runners through the North Shore, Strip District and Downtown.
Runners crossed three Pittsburgh bridges and got an uncommon view of the city's neighborhoods and riverfront from streets typically occupied by vehicles.
Road closures cleared the course for runners
Creating that route brought significant traffic changes across Pittsburgh.
Road closures generally ran from 6:30 a.m. to noon, although reopening times varied by location.
Parking was restricted along the course beginning at 4 a.m. The Andy Warhol Bridge and David McCullough Bridge were among the affected crossings. Both were closed from 6:30 to 11:30 a.m.,according to Allegheny County.
Music filled the route as competitors raced
Traffic disappeared from parts of the course, but the streets were far from quiet.
More than 20 DJs, bands and other musical acts performed along the route as part of the event's "Bring the Energy" theme.
Victor Shitsama of Kenya won the men's 10-mile division in 48:16. Molly Grabill of Colorado won the women's division in 55:42, securing a second victory at the event.
For the thousands who participated, the course also offered something unavailable during a typical trip through Pittsburgh: a chance to see the city's bridges, neighborhoods and skyline from the middle of streets normally filled with cars.
This story was produced by reporter Gabby Sartori, [gsartori@usatodayco.com], with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more atcm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 6,500 runners turn Pittsburgh streets into a race course
