The 4,300 runners expected at a marathon in Wilmington this weekend could pump millions of dollars into the area’s economy.

Officials won’t be able to estimate the total economic impact of this year’s Novant Health Wilmington Marathon until after Saturday’s race, but last year added up to nearly $5.7 million, according to John Sneed, vice president of sales and services for the Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau.

This year’s event, presented by Wicked Weed Brewing, starts Saturday morning and includes a full marathon, Toyota of Wilmington half-marathon and marathon relay.

The marathon course is set to start in Wrightsville Beach at Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier. The full marathon, half-marathon and marathon relay courses will lead downtown, with the full marathon continuing through a loop at Greenfield Lake, according to a CVB news release. All races will finish at Live Oak Bank Pavilion. 

The release stated that roads will be open to traffic throughout race events “with detours to minimize any disruptions to morning commutes.” 

Without Limits, an organization providing coaching services and products to runners and triathlon athletes, directs the Novant Health Wilmington Marathon and the Parkway Subaru Battleship NC Half Marathon.

“Hosting races provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase the destination to families who are traveling from strong visitor feeder markets,” said Kim Hufham, president and CEO of the Wilmington and Beaches CVB. “We hope the participants and their families enjoy their visit and return for future races and family vacations.”