City prepares security ahead of Philadelphia Marathon

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Mayor Michael Nutter tried to reassure the city Tuesday that it's ready for the Philadelphia Marathon.

"We are working diligently and collectively to make sure that our operations teams both in advance and on site are well-prepared, integrated and mobile," Nutter said.

Since the Boston Marathon attack in 2013, the city has deployed extra security, some seen and some unseen.

Malinda Hill was in Boston during the attack cheering on her sister. She'll be running this weekend.

"I can say I'm definitely nervous just because of flashbacks of what happened in Boston and having been there," Hill said.

John Zeberkiewicz was a participant in Boston. He too will be making the 26 mile trek this weekend.

"I think there will be a heightened awareness and I think that'll go a long way to kind of deterring any potential attacks. You never know but I don't feel insecure running the race this weekend," Zeberkiewicz said.

Both of these endurance athletes say life must move forward.

It prompted Zeberkiewicz to run in Boston the year following the attack.

They both look forward to putting their times to the test.

"There is a sense in the running community of resilience. It's an enduring sport and it's one that promotes resilience and embraces resilience," Zeberkiewicz said.

"We can't be afraid and we have to keep living our lives and reaching our goals," Hill said.

Visitors and runners near the start and finish will be screened.

There will be several checkpoints along the area.