The 59th Pikes Peak Ascent begins at 7 a.m. at Memorial Park in Manitou Springs.

About 1,600 runners will tangle with the famous 13.32-mile course that follows the famous Barr Trail through the foothills above Manitou Springs, and then onto the treeless eastern face of Pikes Peak. The race finishes at the peak's summit, 14,115 feet above sea level.

The event is sold out, though it is fun for spectators.

For those who want to see the finish at the summit, plan to drive up the Pikes Peak Highway to Devil's playground, then catch the shuttle to the summit. (The shuttle is quick and efficient.) 

The Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon Race Expo begins at 9 a.m. on Friday at Memorial Park in Manitou Springs. A press conference with the elite athletes and hosted by Bart Yasso of Runner's World Magazine, begins at 1 p.m. Race participants and their families are invited to attend and ask questions.