The Big Sur Marathon saw a return to the full course this year. Racers began in the middle of Big Sur and made their way up north to Carmel. ARIANNA NALBACH - MONTEREY HERALD

Michael Martinez returned to his usual position playing piano by Bixby Bridge, marking the halfway point for marathon racers. ARIANNA NALBACH - MONTEREY HERALD

The 2025 Big Sur Marathon kicked off at 6:45 a.m. Sunday. DAVID TIMONERA - HERALD CORRESPONDENT

Some Big Sur Marathon runners pose for the camera along the course. DAVID TIMONERA - HERALD CORRESPONDENT

A Monterey CHP office escorted the frontrunners during the Big Sur Marathon on Sunday. ARIANNA NALBACH - MONTEREY HERALD