Runners take off for the 2012 Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon

KNOXVILLE, (WVLT) -- Marathon runners are celebrating after completing the 26 mile course on Sunday morning in downtown Knoxville.

Race organizers say, at last count, the 2012 marathon, is the largest on record, with 1000 more registered than last year at 7,500 participants.

Race director Jason Altman says he's excited to see just how many people are participating in the event, and believes its because so the race offers something for everyone.

"We offer something for everyone," said Altman. "So even if you don't think you can run the whole distance maybe you can come walk the 5K and still a part of the event and all the excitement."

Bonita James traveled from Michigan to run the 5k race with her sister and niece. She says she wanted to be a part of their support while they ran the race.

"I came to run with my sister, and my niece is running the marathon for the first time," said James. "We drove through a hail storm, a rain storm but we'll do anything to get down here."

More than 1200 volunteers helped put on the event, from working medical areas to serving food.

"We've had groups cutting bagels since 2:30 this morning, they're prepping the post race to get all the food read. It's really a community effort," Altman added.

A complete list of race results can be found on the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon.