Surviving The Marathon

For most runners, Sunday’s Los Angeles Marathon X111 will involve a series of small trimuphs--from getting to the starting line on time to making it up the highest hill. Here is a guide to the race.

Quick Facts

Sunday

* Bike tour start: 6 a.m. at Coliseum

* Wheelchair start: 8:35 a.m. at 6th and Figueroa streets

* Walkers / runners start: 8:45 a.m. at 6th and Figueror streets.

* Entries: About 20,000 runners

* Distance: 26.2 miles

* Course closure: Vehicles will be allowed back on the streets on a staggered schedule. Competitors then must use sidewalks.

Quick Notes

Registration

No race-day signups on Sunday. Registration is available today until 5 p.m. at Quality of Life Expo at Los Angeles Convention Center.

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Parking

Parking for runners is available downtown. Exit at Spring, Broadway or Grand off the 101 (Hollywood) Freeway and choose one of many lots near starting line. Or exit at 3rd or 4th streets off he 110 (Harbor) Freeway. Runners are advised to arrive early in downtown area and to be prepared for heavy vehicle traffic.

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Trains and Buses

You can also take an Amtrak train to Union Station, then transfer to the Metro Red Line and get off at the 7th Street Metro Center station at 7th and Flower streets, two blocks from the starting line. You can take the Metro Blue Line to the same 7th Street station. MTA information: (800) 266-6883. MTA will reroute 61 bus routes Sunday in the downtown, Hollywood, Exposition Park and Mid-Wilshire areas. Information: (213) 626-4455 or (310) 320-9442.

Source: Times files; http//www.lamarathon.com