Crews make final preparations ahead of 40th anniversary of California International Marathon

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (CBS, KYMA/KECY) - The 40th Annual California International Marathon (CIM) will bring thousands of athletes from across the world to Sacramento, and will also serve as the very last opportunity for runners to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials.

The 40th anniversary of the CIM kicked off Sunday.

Crews finished up the final touches on the finish line Friday night, preparing for more than 10,000 racers from 42 countries and all fifty states, including New Jersey, North Carolina, and as far as Serbia.

Local hotels and businesses hoping to cash-in on visitors this weekend, where December typically is a slower month.

"It's absolutely huge in that sense, along with just the race itself we have other events going on before the race obviously bringing people into the town itself," said Jaxon Clausen, an employee of Fleet Feet.

Fastest marathons

CIM has a reputation for being one of the fastest marathons in the country because of its geography. The 26.2 mile course begins in Folsom and ends in front of the state capitol, an overall 366 foot drop in elevation.

This year's race is also a big win for women. Nearly 50% of the participants are female; something not seen in some other marathons.

"I think that's amazing. I think it's really exciting to see more women jumping into these harder endurance and marathon events," said one runner.

Top runners can also qualify for the Boston Marathon and Olympic trials. It's an annual event that is growing in popularity, with many racers coming back.

"I did it last year. Had such a great time. I just love the vibe of Sacramento," said another runner.