An estimated 28,000 runners took to the streets of Denver over the weekend for the 20th annual Colfax Marathon, a three-day event that has grown into the largest marathon weekend in the Rocky Mountain region.

The milestone race featured a slate of events, including a 5K on Saturday and a full marathon, half marathon, marathon relay and urban 10-miler on Sunday.

“A 20-year milestone deserves a big celebration,” said Andrea Dowdy, CEO of the Denver Colfax Marathon. “Our scenic course of mountains and historic landmarks has always given runners their own personal tour of the city in their race.”

The marathon began at 6 a.m. Sunday in City Park and wound through some of Denver’s most recognizable locations. Runners passed Empower Field at Mile High and followed a route that took participants through downtown Denver, Denver Fire Station No. 1 and along Colfax Avenue.

Alec Hornecker of Arvada won the men’s race with a time of 2:27:56. Hali Hafeman of Golden was the top female finisher, placing 29th overall in 2:56:40. Gabe Sanchez of Bennett was the top nonbinary finisher, completing the course in 3:29:33.

Organizers added to the atmosphere this year with a “Wow at Every Mile” theme, featuring entertainment such as aerial acrobats, Indian mudra dancers and drum lines along the course.

Founded in 2006 with about 4,000 runners, the Colfax Marathon has expanded significantly over two decades. It now draws tens of thousands of participants and includes seven races over a two-day span, along with a health and fitness expo.

The event is run by a nonprofit organization that operates one of the largest charity programs of its kind in the country. Participating organizations keep all funds raised by runners, and the marathon also distributes additional support each year.

Organizers said the marathon will award more than $175,000 to local charities at its annual awards ceremony in June. Collectively, charity partners have raised more than $5 million through the event over the years.

Originally created by the cities of Denver, Lakewood and Aurora to highlight Colfax Avenue, the marathon has become Denver’s premier marathons and a nationally recognized race. In addition to race weekend, organizers also host events throughout the year, including the Colorado Running Hall of Fame ceremony and youth athlete recognition programs.