MYRTLE BEACH — The 2012 Bi-Lo Myrtle Beach Marathon attracted almost 8,000 runners for its various races.

With the event coming up on Saturday, organizers are asking participants and spectators to be mindful of street closings and of those pounding the pavement.

The race starts at 6:30 a.m. at Robert Grissom Parkway, just north of 21st Avenue, and ends at TicketReturn.Com Field.

According to information from Myrtle Beach spokesman Mark Kruea, traffic will be congested on the route between 4 a.m. and 2 p.m. on race day.

Drivers should plan to share the road with runners during those hours, or seek another route to avoid marathon traffic, according to Kruea.

U.S. 17 Bypass won’t be affected by marathon activities and will be the primary route for north and south travel in the city.

Kruea advises drivers trying to get to Broadway at the Beach to use U.S. 17 and 29th Avenue North. Delays are expected on Kings Highway, Ocean Boulevard, Farrow Parkway and cross streets.

Aside from avoiding marathon traffic, those who are running and watching should be mindful of a few things in order to stay safe.

Myrtle Beach Police Capt. David Knipes said drivers should slow down and watch where they are going. They should also leave extra time for delays and be patient.

As for spectators, Knipes said they should look both ways before crossing the street and be on the lookout for cars and runners.

“Again, be patient and cheer loud,” Knipes said.

Contact BRAD DICKERSON at 626-0301 or follow him at Twitter.com/TSN_bdickerson.