Running enthusiasts say they are thrilled to have a chance to follow the footsteps of their Olympic heroes in the heart of Paris.

For the first time, some 20,000 amateurs were able to run on the same route as marathon athletes on the penultimate day of the Olympic Games.

The “Marathon For All” sets off at the French capital’s city hall and finishes at Esplanade des Invalides via Versaille, passing through landmarks such as the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower.

Timothy came all the way from Hong Kong for a once in a lifetime experience.

"Because it's the Olympic Games. I think in a lifetime you cannot join. It shows that everyone can try to run on the same road, no matter if you are an elite runner or you are just a normal [person]," he said.

Another participant, Michele from the United States, hoped she won't get too distracted by the city's night scenery.

"I think the most difficult part is...I'm in Paris. This is my first time here. And I love it. And so I'm very distracted with everything else that's going on. So it's really hard for me to kind of just settle in, enjoy the moment, and just be here for the marathon," she said.

Elizabeth, a hill runner from London, didn’t want to miss the opportunity.

"I just thought it was mad not to sign up. Honestly it's incredible. I was watching the men’s race, and I'm sort of joking that I'm going to come home an Olympian."

The 42km route pays tribute to a key event of the French Revolution - the women’s march on Versailles in 1789.