Pikes Peak Marathon attracts runners from all over the world to one of the most difficult marathons in the United States.

MANITOU SPRINGS — The Pikes Peak Marathon and Ascent concluded on Sunday and Saturday, bringing spectators from all around Colorado and the United States.

The Pikes Peak Marathon is widely regarded as one of the most difficult marathon events in the country, with participants ascending to a height of 14,115 feet.

Daniel Lee, one of today's runners, commented on how natural the Pikes Peak Marathon felt.

"There's something incredibly human about jogging up and down the side of a mountain. It's not difficult to grasp; it's not like basketball, where you have to comprehend the nuances of the game. You may just tell someone what you did, and they will see it was a silly thing to do "Lee said.

Another woman from Michigan says she entered the marathon in search of a new challenge.

"After completing the Abbott World Major Marathons in under 3 hours last year, I was searching for my next challenge and decided on Pikes Peak. I'd better do it since it's the hardest marathon in the country "Meredith Busman stated.

Colorado Springs racer Allie Mclaughlin finished fourth in the Pikes Peak Ascent on Saturday, after previously capturing first place twice.

"It feels great to win on my mountain," Mclaughlin said.

But she didn't finish the race by herself. Mclaughlin was accompanied at the finish line by her one-year-old Golden Retriever Harley.

"She literally crossed the finish line with me," Mclaughlin explained. "She's finished other races with me before, and I generally sprint straight through. But I stopped before the end... I gave her a great embrace before we even reached the finish line".

The Pikes Peak Marathon and Ascent results are available here.