On behalf of the Boston Athletic Association, welcome to the City of Boston and the 128th running of the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America. Whether you are a first-time marathoner, seasoned qualifier, professional athlete, fundraising runner, or simply striving to reach the finish line, we extend a warm welcome as you prepare to take on this year’s race.
As stewards of the world’s oldest annual and most-historic marathon, we look forward to creating the newest chapter of event history together with you on Patriots’ Day.
By joining us, you’ll be part of an extra special moment in Boston history: this is the first Boston Marathon in partnership with Bank of America! With alignment in values and a commitment to community, together we embark on the next great era for running in Boston. The B.A.A. and Bank of America will strive to make running more accessible and broaden its impact both near and far. Together we’ve set a fundraising goal of $50 million raised through this year’s Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program.
The 128th running of the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America will also mark a full century’s worth of races starting in the town of Hopkinton. For 100 years, athletes from around the world have traveled to Hopkinton to begin their quests for the fabled unicorn medal. We’re thrilled to have 30,000 athletes from more than 100 countries set to participate this year. The community of Hopkinton and each of the eight cities and towns are proud to cheer you towards your goals.
At the front of the field will be world-class athletes from 32 countries. Evans Chebet of Kenya aims to make it three straight open division titles, while compatriot Hellen Obiri looks to earn her second olive wreath. In the wheelchair division, American Susannah Scaroni and Swiss star Marcel Hug both return following dominant victories in 2023. Hug capped off his win a year ago with a course record of 1:17:06.
For 128 years, athletes have come to Boston to challenge themselves and push the limits. Hundreds of miles have been run in training, all in anticipation of the 26.2-mile-long celebration that is the Boston Marathon. Savor the experience from start to finish and revel in the community support. It truly is unmatched.
The Boston Marathon wouldn’t be possible without the support of many state, local, and federal officials who coordinate public safety efforts from start to finish, as well as the nearly 10,000 volunteers who dedicate their time and energy. Thank you for bringing the magic of the marathon to the masses.
We wish you a very memorable race experience, and we can’t wait to see you at the finish. Enjoy the 128th Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America!
Sincerely,
Dr. Cheri Blauwet Chair of the Board President & Chief Executive Officer
22 A Trip to Historic Hopkinton
For a century, Hopkinton and the B.A.A. have both been proud to say “It All Starts Here.”
28 Bank of America Boston Marathon Professional Athlete Team
An inside look at who’ll be racing for the podium on Patriots’ Day
34 A Victory for the Ages
Ten years on, Meb Keflezighi reflects on his triumphant 2014 win.
38 The Next Great Era
Bank of America & B.A.A. begin new chapter of Boston Marathon
42 B.A.A. In the Community
True to its vision, the B.A.A. is committed to a world where all people can access and benefit from a healthy lifestyle.
44 Notebook
News, notes, and fun surrounding the 128th Boston Marathon.
50 Abbott World Marathon Majors
Earning the Six Star medal is a goal for many athletes this year.
58 Boston Marathon Champions
First Place standings by divisions over the Marathon's long history
62 A Yankee Insider’s Guide
Make the most of your visit to the Hub by discovering the top things to see and do as chosen by the travel experts at Yankee magazine.
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April 2024
On behalf of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Lieutenant Governor Kimberley Driscoll and I would like to welcome you to the 128th Boston Marathon.
Massachusetts is proud to be home to the longest running and one of the most prestigious marathons in the world. Every year, the Boston Marathon brings thousands of people from across the globe to join us in celebrating this incredible display of athleticism, determination, and pride.
The Boston Marathon is traditionally held on Patriots' Day, a day of revolutionary historic importance to our state and nation. This year, the Marathon also falls on One Boston Day, the April 15th day of remembrance for the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Our hearts remain with those we lost that day, those who were hurt, and their loved ones.
We look forward to celebrating the 2024 Boston Marathon with over 30,000 racers, spanning 123 countries and all 50 states. We are thrilled to welcome new faces to Massachusetts, and welcome back thoses who have been here before.
Lieutenant Governor Kimberley Driscoll and I want to congratulate the runners, wheelchair competitors and para athletes for this awe-inspiring achievement and thank everyone who chose to come to Massachusetts for this momentous event.
We also commend the Boston Athletic Association for their continued efforts in facilitating a smooth and safe event for participants and spectators alike. We wish all the participants good luck, and we look forward to a safe, exciting and lively race. Please accept our best wishes to all in attendance today.
Sincerely,
KIMBERLEY DRISCOLL
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This annual marathon is an opportunity to lift up the grit and resilience of the human spirit.
Welcome to the 128th Boston Marathon. For more than a century, we’ve taken pride in our partnership with the Boston Athletic Association to host a marathon that shows all that we can accomplish when we push ourselves—and each other—to do our very best. This year, we’re excited to welcome Bank of America for their first year as Presenting Partner of our historic event. Once again, we’re all coming together to cheer on family, friends, neighbors, and runners from all over the world.
We do so in honor of those we lost on April 15th eleven years ago. We endured a tragedy that threatened to undermine the integrity of the marathon and fracture our sense of community. But instead of coming apart, we came together. We united in the spirit of healing and declared April 15th of each year One Boston Day, an opportunity for residents and visitors to show love and kindness to one another. This year, One Boston Day and the historic Boston Marathon fall on the same day.
That’s just one of the many reasons that this year’s marathon theme, “History in the Making,” is so fitting. Because the people of Boston, our guests, and our neighbors are no strangers to making history. From hosting the world’s oldest annual marathon and celebrating a century of starting this race in Hopkinton to the history that our runners, our volunteers, and our brave first responders make each and every year.
This annual marathon is an opportunity to lift up the grit and resilience of the human spirit. Whether you’re one of the 30,000 runners who are joining us from every U.S. state and more than 100 countries, the 9,500 volunteers who make sure the race runs smoothly, or the countless spectators cheering everyone on, on race day, you’re a part of the Boston community and we are proud to welcome you to the city of champions.
And, of course, thank you to the B.A.A. and Bank of America for everything you’ve done to make the marathon one of our city’s most anticipated and celebrated events. To all of this year’s runners, good luck!
Sincerely,
Mayor Michelle Wu
City of Boston
Welcome to the 128th running of the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America, the oldest annual marathon in the world.
For years, my teammates and I have cheered from the street as runners launched from the Start line in Hopkinton, made their way past the roars at the Wellesley College ‘Scream Tunnel’, battled Heartbreak Hill, and then turned right on Hereford and left on Boylston as they approached the Finish line at Copley Square in downtown Boston.
We are honored to join the Boston Athletic Association in our first year as the race’s Presenting Partner, welcoming athletes competing at all levels, volunteers, supporters and fans from all over the world as they come together for this exceptional event.
We know running a marathon is all about hard work and long hours of training and preparation. We share your commitment. In fact, Bank of America has served as Title Sponsor of the Chicago Marathon – another of the six World Marathon Majors – since 2008.
As you put in your final miles ahead of race day, we want to thank everyone who helps to make the Boston Marathon possible. It’s the athletes, charity partners, volunteers, local businesses, city and state officials, and public safety personnel that make this race so unique, year after year.
And a special thanks to those of you who are running for the benefit of a charity. Since its inception in 1989, the Boston Marathon Charity Program has raised more than $500 million for worthy causes, including a record $40 million raised last year. It’s that spirit of philanthropy that gives added meaning to this race and helps make a lasting impact for communities in Boston and beyond.
On behalf of all our Bank of America teammates, it’s an honor to be part of this year’s marathon. Good luck to all the athletes and enjoy the race!
Sincerely,
Brian Moynihan Chair and CEO Bank of America
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The home of the Marathon’s Start Line hits 100 years old
The 128th running of the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America will mark a full century’s worth of races starting in the town of Hopkinton. Since 1924— when the 26.2-mile marathon distance became official—the event’s start has been nestled around Hopkinton Common, one of the most beautiful settings for a global event to begin. For a century, Hopkinton and the B.A.A. have both been proud to say, “It All Starts Here.”
As we embark on the centennial anniversary, let’s take a deeper look at Hopkinton—home of the starting line!
↖Runners depart Hopkinton after the start of the 35th Boston Marathon in 1931.
← The ‘It All Starts Here’ sign is located on Hopkinton's Common just steps from the start!
Statues celebrating marathon legends and icons can be found all throughout Hopkinton. Near the town center is a sculpture of Team Hoyt, the iconic father–son duo who completed more than 30 Bostons. Rick and Dick’s legacy is carried on by runners competing on behalf of The Hoyt Foundation this year.
Also adjacent to the start is a statue of George V. Brown, the legendary starter from 1905 to 1937. Brown was instrumental in moving the marathon’s start line to
Hopkinton, and also made waves beyond the sport of track and field and road racing. He helped manage many U.S. Olympic teams, the Boston Garden, and Boston University’s athletics programs in addition to his work for the B.A.A.
Don’t forget about the “It All Starts Here” sign, a Hopkinton Marathon Committee tradition for years. This is located on Hopkinton Common just steps from the start!
At the one-mile mark you’ll find Stylianos Kyriakides, the
1946 Boston Marathon champion, overlooking the course as part of a statue titled “Spirit of the Marathon.” Kyriakides is known as the first charity runner in event history, having raised funds for Greece while winning the marathon.
One of the most recent additions to Hopkinton is a bronze statue of Bobbi Gibb, the first woman to complete the Boston Marathon. Created by Gibb herself, it is on display at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts near Athletes’ Village.
In 1997, founders Sharon Lisnow and Mary McQueeney opened the Michael Lisnow Respite Center in the town of Hopkinton. Sharon’s son Michael was born 16 weeks premature and weighed one pound; his premature birth caused him to have cerebral palsy and left him blind. Michael lived for 10 years and died one year shy of the Center’s opening. He is the enduring inspiration for the center.
The center is part of this year’s Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program, and has been part of the program for the last 26 years.
“The Boston Marathon has impacted us in so many ways. When we ended up in Hopkinton, we immediately understood how important the marathon was to the town and how much the B.A.A. supports programs here,” said Sharon. “Over the years we have had 1,566 runners raise enough support to allow
us to provide 183,330 hours of free care for children and adults with developmental and medical disabilities. We would not be what we are today without the Boston Marathon and the town of Hopkinton.”
Further connecting the B.A.A. and the center is Peter Shea. Peter participates in their community-based day program and lives in a home in Hopkinton, with three housemates, that is supported by the Respite Center. He is also a loyal and longtime friend of the B.A.A. providing his time and skills for the last 20 years.
“I always wanted to volunteer with the B.A.A. The Respite Center helped introduce me and here we are!” said Peter. “My favorite parts of volunteering have been sorting the mail, opening and sorting the race applications, helping with shredding and anything else the office needs. But the best thing is celebrating my birthday with them.
“Last year I got to stuff the bib num-
bers for the runner's bags at the Expo. I check the names and the addresses, and we get to talk to everyone, and everyone talks to us. It’s a really fun day!
“Every year I get a new jacket. I have A LOT of jackets! My favorite color so far is the yellow one. They even put my name on the back. It makes me look really cool.”
“Peter has been a part of the Respite family for 25 years,” said Sharon. “He is an amazing man with many talents. He has a great sense of humor, is incredibly generous and loves to compete. The challenges of Down syndrome have not slowed him from reaching for dreams. His ultimate dream was to become a volunteer for the Boston Marathon. His absolute favorite thing in the world is spending time with his friends at the B.A.A. and helping with anything he can.”
— By Lorna Campbell1.90 miles Race Distance in Hopkinton (7.25% of the race route)
THE ATHLETES’ VILLAGE is located at Hopkinton High School and Middle School. This is where all athletes relax before walking to the start line!
18,758
TOWN POPULATION AS OF 2020
Among the notable natives of Hopkinton include professional golfer Keegan Bradley and Walter A. Brown, founder of the Boston Celtics.
MORE THAN
46,000 POUNDS of clothing is annually collected at the start and donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters.
49 PARTICIPANTS and 75 VOLUNTEERS in this year’s Boston Marathon are from Hopkinton
Longest Current Finisher Streak: Michael Hovagimian – 27 Boston finishes in a row
Most Volunteer Experience: Dottie Ferriter-Wallace with more than 40 years of service
812,224
➜ 1st Race in Hopkinton, 1924: 147 entrants
Total Boston Marathon entrants from 1924 – 2023, spanning the 99 years the race has started in Hopkinton.
100th Race in Hopkinton, 2024: 30,000 entrants
Who Fires the Starter’s Pistol on Race Day?
While it’s tradition that a member of the Brown family signals a start, each wave and division has a different honorary starter. Oftentimes starters are celebrating special anniversaries or are nominated by the Hopkinton Marathon Committee in recognition of their service to the community.
In 2023, Jon Anderson and Jaqueline Hansen—celebrating the 50th anniversary of their 1973 victories1—kicked off the men’s and women’s professional divisions.
If you visit Hopkinton in early April, chances are you’ll see Spike the unicorn in the window of the B.A.A.’s Hopkinton office. As the marathon gets closer, B.A.A. staff adjust Spike’s positioning little by little until he’s fully visible on race day! Keep an eye out for Spike steps beyond the start line.
An inside look at who’ll be racing for the podium on Patriots’ Day
The Boston Marathon is proud to showcase the world’s best athletes year in and year out. Fast fields are set to take center stage in the Open, Wheelchair, and Para Athletics Divisions, featuring podium finishers from the Olympics, Paralympics, Abbott World Marathon Majors, and global championships.
“When this field toes the line in Hopkinton for the start of the 128th Boston Marathon, the eyes of the world will be watching,” said David Tyrie, chief digital officer and chief marketing officer, Bank of America. “This year’s race and its impact on the global community is shaping up to be second to none.”
Quick Take: Knowing the Boston course always helps when aiming for the podium. A mix of first-time Boston Marathoners and Abbott World Marathon Majors podium finishers round out the challengers. Senbere Teferi has found success at B.A.A. Distance Medley races, while American Emma Bates looks to build upon her fifth-place a year ago. She led the latter miles in 2023.
Tadu Teshome
Ethiopia
PERSONAL BEST: 2:17:36
19th Fastest Women’s Marathoner in history
5th place at 2023
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Senbere Teferi
Ethiopia
PERSONAL BEST: 2:19:21
2022 B.A.A. 5K Champion & Course Record Holder (14:49)
Former half marathon national record holder (1:05:32)
Hellen Obiri Kenya
PERSONAL BEST: 2:21:38
Defending Boston Marathon & B.A.A. 10K Champion
Winner of the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon
2-time Olympic silver medalist
Ababel Yeshaneh
Ethiopia PERSONAL BEST: 2:20:51
2nd in 2022 and 4th in 2023
Has podiumed in Boston, New York and Chicago
Edna Kiplagat Kenya
PERSONAL BEST: 2:19:50
2-time Boston Marathon Champion
2-time World Champion Masters (40+) Division Record Holder
Des Linden USA
PERSONAL BEST: 2:22:38
2018 Boston Marathon Champion
Racing her 11th Boston Marathon
3rd fastest American in Boston history (2:22:38)
Emma Bates USA
PERSONAL BEST: 2:22:10
2nd Fastest American in Boston history & 5th place in 2023
2018 USA National Marathon Champion
At this point in my career, it’s an easy decision to return to the Boston Marathon and make it my top priority race of the spring. I can’t wait to take on the iconic course for an 11th time and have the opportunity to mix it up with some of the best runners in the world.
— DES LINDEN, 2018 BOSTON CHAMPION
Judith Korir
Kenya
PERSONAL BEST: 2:18:20
2022 World Championships
Marathon silver medalist
2022 Paris Marathon Champion
Sharon Lokedi
Kenya
PERSONAL BEST: 2:23:22
2022 TCS New York City Marathon Champion & 3rd place in 2023
3rd place at 2022 B.A.A. 5K
Boston Marathon presenting partner Bank of America is supporting all top contenders as part of the Bank of America Professional Athlete Team. Athletes in the Open, Wheelchair, and Para Athletics Divisions will be competing for more than $1 million in prize money.
A course record bonus of $50,000 is available for open and wheelchair athletes, and Para Athletics Division prize money will be offered across seven impairment classifications—an increase from five in previous years. Athletes with coordination impairments (T35-T38) and intellectual impairments (T20) will be eligible for prize money.
Quick Take: Susannah Scaroni ended Manuela Schär’s run of dominance last year, despite having to stop and fix a loose wheel around seven miles. The pair have frequently dueled at Abbott World Marathon Majors.
Susannah Scaroni USA
PERSONAL BEST:
1:27:31
2023 Boston Marathon Champion
2024 Team USA Paralympian
2021 Paralympic gold medalist in the 5,000m
Manuela Schär Switzerland
PERSONAL BEST:
1:28:17
4-time Boston Marathon Champion
Course Record Holder (1:28:17)
3-time Abbott World Marathon Majors Series Champion
Madison de Rozario Australia
PERSONAL BEST:
1:31:11
Paralympic Marathon gold medalist
Runner-up in 2023
I always look forward to competing at the Boston Marathon and am very excited to joining an incredible women's field again this year to try and defend my title.
— SUSANNAH SCARONI, 2023 BOSTON CHAMPIONQuick Take: The T64 (lower-limb impairment division) is the one to watch. Returning to the roads of Boston are past podium finishers Liz Willis, Jacky Hunt-Broersma, and Nicole Ver Kuilen, while newcomer Kelly Bruno will take her first crack at Boston.
Liz Willis USA
Won the T64 Division (lower limb impairment) in 2023
Set a world record
1:45:20 at the 2023
B.A.A. Half Marathon.
Former Paralympic sprinter
Kelly Bruno USA
Accomplished ultra-marathoner and triathlete
Competed in Survivor: Nicaragua
It is exciting to see the Para field expanding as more adaptive women have been encouraged to join the marathon community. Growth equates to progress working for the betterment of society, which ultimately increases the competitive field. I am excited to see so many athletes whom I now call friends returning while also eager to meet many new runners. I anticipate this race to be swifter than ever before! May we rise in strength beyond the once thought impossible.— LIZ WILLIS, 2023 BOSTON CHAMPION
Quick Take: Can anyone beat Evans Chebet? He’s looking to become just the fifth man to three-peat in Boston. The only others to do it: Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot, Cosmas Ndeti, Bill Rodgers, and Clarence Demar. Sisay Lemma is aiming to avenge a pair of Boston disapointments in the past, while Gabrial Geay looks to become the first champion from Tanzania. Don’t forget Zouhair Talbi—fifth place in 2023 and recent Houston Marathon course-record setter.
Evans Chebet Kenya
PERSONAL BEST:
2:03:00
Two-time Defending Champion
Fifth-fastest marathoner in Boston history (2:05:54)
Has won 6 of last 7 marathons he’s entered
Boston has become like a second home to me and running in Boston is always special— returning as reigning champion even more so. Even after having run 28 marathons during my career, the chance to race the 29th in Boston and the fans there give me the motivation necessary to prepare to defend my title. I look forward to hitting the streets there this spring and hearing the enthusiastic crowds along the course.
— EVANS CHEBET, 2023 BOSTON CHAMPIONThe Challengers
Sisay Lemma Ethiopia
PERSONAL BEST: 2:01:48
4th fastest Marathoner of all-time Valencia Marathon Champion
Shura Kitata
Ethiopia PERSONAL BEST: 2:04:49
2020 London Marathon Champion
2nd and 3rd at previous two New York City Marathons
Gabriel Geay Tanzania
PERSONAL BEST: 2:03:00
Runner-up at 2023
Boston Marathon
2-time B.A.A. 10K Champion
Matt McDonald USA
PERSONAL BEST: 2:09:49
B.A.A. High Performance Team Member
Placed 10th at 2023
Boston Marathon
Suguru Osako Japan
PERSONAL BEST: 2:05:29
3rd place at 2017
Boston Marathon
Former Japanese National Record Holder
CJ Albertson USA
PERSONAL BEST: 2:10:52
World 50K Record Holder
Finished 5th at the USA Olympic Marathon Trials in February
Zouhair Talbi Morocco
PERSONAL BEST: 2:06:39
5th place at 2023 Boston in his marathon debut Won 2024 Houston Marathon in course record 2:06:39
Edward Cheserek Kenya
PERSONAL BEST: 2:11:07
17-time NCAA Champion at Oregon Ran a 3:49:44 indoor mile in Boston in 2018
Albert Korir Kenya
PERSONAL BEST: 2:06:57
2021 TCS New York City Champion
4th at 2023 Boston Marathon
Day doing anything other than running the Boston Marathon.
— MATT MCDONALD
Quick Take: With each start, Marcel Hug seems to get closer and closer to Ernst van Dyk’s record of 10 career Boston Marathon victories. Hug currently sits at six and set a new course record in 2023. As the reigning Paralympic champion in the marathon, he’s looking to build momentum heading into Paris 2024.
Marcel Hug Switzerland
PERSONAL BEST:
1:17:06
6-time Boston Marathon Champion Course Record Holder (1:17:06)
2021 Paralympic Gold Medalist at 800m, 1500m, 5000m, and the marathon
Daniel Romanchuk USA
PERSONAL BEST:
1:21:36
2-time Boston Marathon Champion (2019 & 2022)
2024 Paralympian for Team USA
Aaron Pike USA
PERSONAL BEST:
1:20:02
2nd place at 2022
Boston Marathon
2024 Paralympic Marathoner
The Boston Marathon will be my first Abbott World Marathon Major in this Paralympic year. To cross the finish line first would not only mean to win an iconic and most historic marathon but also to have a good start into this important season giving a mental boost. That’s why I give extra effort in my preparation to make it happen.
— MARCEL HUG, 2023 BOSTON CHAMPIONQuick Take: This is the most accomplished Para Athletics Division field in race history, featuring world and national record holders at a variety of distances, as well as Paralympians. Marathon Monday will be a battle for the podium.
El Amin Chentouf Morocco, T11/T12 (vision impairment)
50th place overall in 2023
Ran 2:31:35 at Boston last year
Marko Cheseto Lemtukei USA, T63-T64 (lower-limb impairment)
Defending Champion (2:50:02 last year)
Has run 2:37:01 in Boston (2022)
Chaz Davis USA, T11/T12 (vision impairment)
2016 Team USA
Paralympian 2:31:48 marathoner (American record)
Brian Reynolds USA, T63-T64 (lower-limb impairment)
Ran 3:08:02 at Boston last year
Has set world bests at the B.A.A. Half Marathon and B.A.A. 10K
The beauty of our diversity is reflected at the start line of Boston marathon, it doesn’t matter what people are missing, what matters is how different abilities are combined together to create a memorable marathon.
— MARKO CHESETO LEMTUKEI, T63-T64 CHAMPION
10 years on, Meb Keflezighi reflects on his triumphant 2014 win
2014 marks marks 10 years since Meb Keflezighi won the 117th Boston Marathon—arguably the most meaningful victory in event history. One year after the tragedy on Boylston Street, the American distance running legend celebrated on the podium knowing that his win had helped a city and community heal.
Entering the 2014 Boston Marathon, Meb Keflezighi already had a long list of accolades: He had won an Olympic silver medal in 2004, and had claimed a New York City Marathon win in 2009. Despite the resume, Meb’s 2:09:08 personal
best ranked him 17th fastest in the star-studded field. Channeling an underdog mentality and fueled by patriotism, he approached the race with something to prove.
“If you look at any of the years I ran
Boston, 2010, 2006, or 2014, which one was the fittest I’d ever been, it was 2006. That was probably the year I should have won, in terms of fitness. But in terms of internal drive that you want to do greater than yourself, 2014. You can want it, you can desire it, but there was a higher power. I’m a believer that God had a plan for me to be able to do that.”
Before the race began, Meb took a sharpie to his bib and wrote the names of Krystle Campbell, Martin Richard, Lingzi Lu, and MIT police officer Sean Collier—all who were lost one year prior.
“An inspiration I’ve learned from fellow runners is that they want me to autograph their bib numbers so they can get inspiration, or when they look down they can think ‘Meb–Run to Win’ and get the best out of their self. They share those moments with me when I meet them. I just said this is Boston Strong. I want to write their names big so I can get their strength. To have that inner motivation was huge.”
Meb recounting his 2014 race is like an artist painting a masterpiece. While he has chronicled the win hundreds of times in the years since, he speaks with a deep passion. Listening to each description in detai—the pain, euphoria, struggle, and exultation—evokes goosebumps.
“I came in with three goals. One, to win. Two, top three. And three, personal best,” he said. “Mile 16 was 4:30 and by 17 miles, just like I was hurting in 2006, I was hurting pretty bad this time around, having issues with the bottom of my foot. But wearing that USA, they keep you going, the people keep you going. I was in the lead and at 18, 19 miles, people were chanting 'USA! USA!' And I started joining them. I have a picture of it in fact. Going by Boston College, people were doing the wave and it was an amazing sight.
“With about 5-K left is when I first
observed and looked back and saw someone behind me. I have no idea who it was or what they were going to do, but I did a lot of visualization and knew it was going to come down to Boylston Street. I just kept pushing and pushing. Three things came to mind: slow down and save your energy for Boylston, try to maintain the gap, or try to extend the gap. I said as a runner, by saving my energy, the person catching up to me will have the mental edge, and they will slow down and try to out kick me at the end. I said ignore that plan. Maintain or extend the gap.”
The person gaining steam was Kenya’s Wilson Chebet, a 2:05:27 marathoner who’d finished fifth in 2012.
“At mile 24 I was digging so deep that I started throwing up, but I couldn’t show my weakness. I just held it in, covered my mouth and swallowed it in, you know?
“With 1-K left I thought, ‘Uh oh, whether it’s an Ethiopian or Kenyan behind, they go by kilometers and will know exactly how much is left.’ He’s going to think three minutes of pain, three minutes of pain. I said, ‘Well, it’s three minutes of pain for you, too, so dig deeper and mechanics, mechanics, mechanics. Lean forward on the downhill, uphill shorter stride and more arm action.”
At that point, Meb wasn’t focusing on the finish line. Instead, he focused on the final turns: right on Hereford and left on Boylston.
“My finish line is on Hereford and Boylston. Sprint as hard as you can, and by the time he makes the turn, make (the gap) bigger so he gets discouraged, hopefully. Going onto Boylston I just crossed myself and said, ‘Thank you God for giving me this opportunity to lead.’ It was electrifying sound from Hereford to Boylston, all down Boylston to the finish line. It was amazing. I’m trying to put it into words.
“I accelerated, accelerated, and it was the thrill of a lifetime to be able to chant ‘USA! USA!’ as an American, after what was catastrophic in 2013 to what was a dream for everybody in 2014. To be able to have my dream come true, have an Olympic silver medal, win New
York, and finally win Boston on the most important day in marathoning ever, the year after the bombing. To have 36,000 participants and fellow runners, it was an amazing moment to be the first American in 31 years.”
Not since 1983 had an American man, Greg Meyer, won Boston’s open division. Meyer was there to welcome Meb into the winner’s club.
“Before the race he told me, ‘You are the smartest runner out there, so get it done.’ That’s what he said. He wanted me to win that race for me, for Ryan (Hall), for (Alan) Culpepper and all the Americans who had run since … I broke down when I saw him.
“I was looking at the (finish) picture … you see the relief of a lifetime looking to the sky and to God and saying, ‘Thank you for this moment.’ To have my wife
↑ Buzunesh Deba set a women’s open division course record of 2:19:59, which still stands today.
↗South Africa’s Ernst van Dyk won his tenth and final Boston wheelchair victory in 1:20:36. The all-time most decorated Boston Marathoner retired from professional racing in 2023.
↗Tatyana McFadden earned her second wheelchair win while sporting an MR8 jersey in honor of Martin Richard. Her time of 1:35:06 was the fastest of her five victories.
→A total of 31,923 athletes finished the 2014 Boston Marathon, reclaiming the roads in celebratory fashion. This was the second-largest finisher total in race history, only behind the centennial running in 1996.
(Yordanos) there give me a hug, (my brother) Hawi, my mentor Bob Larsen, it was a dream come true.
“Sometimes dreams come late rather than early. I wanted it in 2006, but 2014 at the finish line was a magical moment. Tears of emotion, tears of happiness, tears of overcoming obstacles through the struggle of marathons and struggle of life. When you least expect it, it all comes together. It all did for me and couldn’t have happened at a better time.
“Usually you get a ‘congratulations’ or ‘well done’ after a win. But people said, ‘Thank you.’ Saying ‘thank you,’ that’s an amazing compliment … Boston deserved that.”
Writtenby Chris Lotsbom. Portions of this interview were originally published in Race Results Weekly.
While still a college student at East Tennessee State University, Neil Cusack timed 2:13:39 to win the 1974 Boston Marathon. To this day, Cusack holds the distinct honor of being the only Irishman to have won Boston. He’ll be back in town on Patriots’ Day celebrating the 50th anniversary of his memorable run.
What do you recall most about your 1974 Boston Marathon victory?
I did not realize how big the race was globally. The reaction from people afterwards was incredible. I had no idea how many Irish people lived in Boston—80,000 at the time I was told! Sewing the Irish shamrock on my string vest was a very important decision even though the university had paid for my trip to Boston. The amount of spectators from the starting line to
the finish was unbelievable, especially as you got closer to Boston and the finish line.
You won Boston while still a college student at East Tennessee State, and clocked the second-fastest winning time at that point in race history. Were you surprised to win?
My race plan for Boston was to run relaxed for the first six miles and stay back from the leaders, then move up
and try to move away. I was approximately a minute ahead at the halfway mark and won by 47 seconds ahead of Tom Fleming. Also, I met a guy named Pat McMahon, an Irishman from Boston (runner-up in 1968) at the start in the Hopkinton High School warm up area, and he asked me how did I think I would do. I replied, “I think I’m going to win."
How did you celebrate your victory?
What was the reception like in Boston, back at school, and in Ireland?
That evening in Boston I had a few beers and a nice meal in a restaurant. The next day I traveled back to ETSU via Washington, D.C. and was upgraded to first class on flights home. When I arrived back at the airport I was met by the ETSU president, coach Dave Walker, and the police chief. I was driven to the campus by limousine where I attended a welcome reception. Back in Ireland, the press were contacting me and also my family about my Boston victory. I later received an Athlete of the Year award.
Ireland has a long list of middle- and long-distance legendary runners, but you’re the only Irish man or woman to win Boston. What does that accomplishment mean to you?
It has followed me through life since I crossed the finish line that famous day.
What are you most looking forward to in your return to Boston, 50 years after you won?
Returning to Boston with my wife, Imelda, meeting up with old friends and past champions. And visiting and enjoying the buzz around the marathon, knowing that I can just sit back and enjoy the atmosphere.
picture finishing a world famous marathon going for a walk, a hike, travel, having fun
picture finishing a world famous marathon going for a walk, a hike, travel, having fun
with no worries
with no worries
comfortable in the skin you’re in™ you’re
comfortable in the skin you’re in™ you’re
FOR BODIES THAT MOVE
anti chafing anti blister
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since 1996
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In March of 2023, the Boston Athletic Association announced that Bank of America will be the presenting partner of the Boston Marathon beginning in 2024. The world’s oldest annual and most historic marathon teamed up with one of the world’s leading financial institutions on a decade-long agreement, which will extend far beyond the finish line of the annual Patriots’ Day event.
“We embark on the next great era for running in Boston and around the world with Bank of America as our partner in all that we do, most notably the Boston
Marathon,” said Jack Fleming, president and CEO of the B.A.A.
“We are privileged and honored to partner with the B.A.A on this next leg of the journey for the historic Boston Marathon,” said David Tyrie, chief digital officer and chief marketing officer for Bank of America. “Through this partnership, we will broaden our ability to help communities around the world thrive, creating positive impact for small businesses, charities, runners, and teammates on race weekend and throughout the year.”
Central to Bank of America’s presenting
partnership of the Boston Marathon are its four core values: deliver together, act responsibly, realize the power of its people, and trust the team. The B.A.A. shares these principles in its mission of promoting a healthy lifestyle through sports, especially running, and focuses on connecting with participants, volunteers, community members, and supporters throughout the year. As a running and community leader, the B.A.A. will work hand in hand with Bank of America to bring the Boston Marathon’s impact and reach to new heights—both on a national and global scale—in the years ahead.
Atotal of 168 organizations have been selected as part of this year’s Bank of America
Boston Marathon Official Charity Program. Each organization has raised valuable funds for worthy causes, rallying around this year’s event. A goal of raising $50 million has been set this year!
“The Boston Marathon, and all those who participate in it, have an enormous impact on our community,” said Miceal Chamberlain, Bank of America president of Greater Boston. “Our engagement in sports and sporting events around the world, like the Boston Marathon, are one of the ways we drive Responsible Growth locally, nationally, and globally.”
(RED)
261 Fearless Inc.
50 Legs
A Leg Forever
Abby Mac Foundation
The ≠ALS Association
Achilles International – Boston
Alzheimer's Association
MA/NH Chapter
America SCORES New England
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), MA Chapter
American Liver Foundation, N.E. Division
American Red Cross of MA
Back on My Feet Boston
Bay Cove Human Services, Inc.
Bay State Games
Best Buddies MA & RI
Beth Israel Lahey Health
Big Sister Association of Greater Boston
The Bill Belichick Foundation
Black Girls RUN! Foundation
Born to Run Foundation, Inc.
Boston Athletic Academy
Boston Athletic Association
Boston Bruins Foundation
Boston Bulldogs Running Club
Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston Chinatown
Neighborhood Center
Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program
Boston Medical Center
Boston Police Foundation
Boston Theater Company
Bottom Line
Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence
Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston
Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester
Brain Aneurysm Foundation
Brigham and Women's Hospital
The Brittany Fund
The Cam Neely Foundation
Camp Casco
Camp Shriver at UMass Boston
Cardinal Cushing Centers
Caring for a Cure
Casa Myrna
The Children's Room
Community Rowing, Inc.
Cops for Kids with Cancer, Inc.
Corey C. Griffin Foundation
Cradles to Crayons
CYCLE Kids
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
David Ortiz Children's Fund
Dennis "DJ" Simmonds
Unsung Hero Foundation
DetecTogether
The Dimock Center
Doc Wayne Youth Services
Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism
Dream Big!
Ellie Fund
Esplanade Association
Every Mother Counts
Expect Miracles Foundation
Family Reach
FamilyAid
Fast Feet Running and Athletics, Inc.
Fenway Health
Fisher House of Boston
Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation
Girls on the Run Greater Boston
Golf Fights Cancer
Good Sports, Inc.
Greater Boston Food Bank, Inc.
Gronk Nation Youth Foundation (Fiscal Sponsor – Good Causes, Inc.)
Hale Education, Inc.
The Heather Abbott Foundation
Herren Project
Homes For Our Troops
HomeStart, Inc.
Horizons for Homeless Children
Home for Little Wanderers
House of Possibilities
The Hoyt Foundation
IMPACT Melanoma
In My Running Shoes
InnerCity Weightlifting
The James Gang
JDRF Greater New England
Joe Andruzzi Foundation
John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton
Journey Forward Inc.
The Kita Center (Formally Camp Kita)
Krystle Campbell Memorial Fund
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, MA Chapter Light Foundation
Lingzi Foundation
Lovin' Spoonfuls, Inc.
Make-A-Wish MA and RI
Martin Richard Foundation
Mass Eye and Ear
Mass Mentoring Partnership
Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress
Massachusetts General Hospital
THe McCourt Foundation
McLean Hospital
MEB Foundation
MetroWest YMCA
The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research
Michael Lisnow Respite Center
Minds Matter Boston
Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation
Muscular Dystrophy Association
National Braille Press
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater New England Chapter
National Ovarian Cancer Coalition –MA Chapter
New England Center for Children
New England Patriots Foundation
Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Next Step
Officer Sean A. Collier
Memorial Fund, Inc.
One Mission
One Summit, Inc.
One World Strong Foundation
Pine Street Inn
Play Ball Foundation
The Play Brigade
Progeria Research Foundation
Project HOPE Boston Inc.
Project Purple
Rebekah's Angels Foundation
Red Sox Foundation
The Remarcable Foundation
Ronald McDonald House
Charities of New England
Rosie's Place
Roxbury Community College Foundation
Samaritans, Inc.
Semper Fi & America's Fund
SG United Foundation
Silver Lining Mentoring
South Boston Neighborhood House
South Shore Hospital, Inc.
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
Special Olympics Massachusetts
The Sports Museum
Sportsmen's Tennis & Enrichment Center
The Steve Fund
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Stride for Stride
TargetCancer Foundation Team IMPACT
Tedy's Team
Tenacity, Inc.
The 3Point Foundation, Inc.
Thompson Island Outward Bound
Trinity Boston Connects
Trustees of Tufts College
Tufts Medical Center
UMass Chan Medical School Foundation
United Service Organizations Incorporated (USO)
Vanessa T. Marcotte Foundation
Walker Therapeutic and Educational Programs
Webb Norden Foundation
West End House
Women's Lunch Place
World Central Kitchen
YMCA of Greater Boston
Youth Enrichment Services (YES)
Meghan Summers is looking forward to stepping onto the start line in her Herren Project kit, running in memory of her boyfriend Sam Norton.
From New Jersey and now living in New York City, the 27-year-old is following in the footsteps of Sam, who sadly passed away last August while running the Santa Rosa Marathon.
Sam was my No. 1 supporter and cheerleader. He would be super proud of me and would be the first one to encourage me to come up with goals for my training.— MEGHAN SUMMERS
“Herren Project is very special to me. Sam lost his father in 2020 after a battle with substance abuse and mental health issues and ran the 2023 Boston Marathon with the team to fundraise in his honor,” said Meghan. “He had also started fundraising to complete the New York City Marathon last year, so I want to continue where he left off.”
Having grown up in Leominster, Mass., Sam had been laser focused on running his hometown race; after all, both of his parents were Boston Marathon finishers. Sam ran as a way to lean into the process of grieving his father’s passing, and now Meghan is keeping Sam’s memory alive through her Boston Marathon journey.
“Running helps me do one of two things. It helps as either a distraction from or a way to lean into this new world. It helps me work through all of my emotions,
and leaves me feeling clear minded and grounded. Running and training for the Boston Marathon helps me to remember how disciplined and dedicated Sam was to everything he took on.
“Sam was my No. 1 supporter and cheerleader. He would be super proud of me and would be the first one to encourage me to come up with goals for my
Meghan Summers will be running for the charity Herren Project, in remembrance of her boyfriend Sam Norton. Herren Project provides drug and alcohol addiction recovery services.
training. At his core he wanted the best for everyone around him.”
Sam’s cousin, Alyssa Norton, and close friend, Caroline Andreoli, are both running the Boston Marathon with Herren Project as well.
“It’s going to be a real team effort, and I can’t wait to make him proud,” said Meghan.
Chris Byrne, a police sergeant from Tewksbury, Mass., is getting ready to run his first Boston Marathon as part of The Hoyt Foundation. He’ll be honoring his late uncle, John Thompson, a two-time Boston Marathon finisher in the wheelchair division.
“John was an award-winning photographer for the Boston Herald before becoming paralyzed in a motorcycle accident at the age of 24. Despite the accident, John kept moving forward, continuing to participate in skiing, scuba-diving, and road racing,” said Chris. “Before my uncle passed away from cancer last winter, I promised him that I would run the 2024 Boston Marathon.”
Growing up, Chris spent a lot of time with his uncle, supporting inclusive opportunities for athletes with disabilities. These memories and experiences led Chris to The Hoyt Foundation, who strive for inclusiveness for those who’ve been given challenges in life. The Hoyt Foundation is named in honor of legendary Boston Marathon duo Dick & Rick Hoyt, who together finished more than 30 Bostons.
While marathons may be out of his current comfort zone, Chris is ready for the challenge. “This will be my first 26.2 miles, however I’ve always been a runner. In high school, I was part of our two-time state champion 4x400 relay team, and also ran long distances before every wrestling practice. That stamina proved very useful later on when I entered the police academy. In my final months of the academy, we were running up to 10 miles a day.
“Running has not only helped me stay fit, but it also has done wonders against any stress or anxiety that may come along with everyday life,” said Chris. “I truly feel happier when I am running. I can’t wait to experience that same feeling on race day with Team Hoyt at the Boston Marathon.
“This marathon is more than just one day. This event is the culmination of a long journey getting there, and training hard along the way. I know that this will truly be an emotional day for me.”
True to its vision, the B.A.A. is committed to a world where all people can access and benefit from a healthy lifestyle. Beyond mass-participatory races, the B.A.A. supports numerous events and community initiatives that impact more than 20 Massachusetts communities.
Last fall, 16 long-serving volunteers were recognized for reaching 30 years of service to the Boston Marathon. These individuals have given their time, energy and support to the marathon and many other B.A.A. events over the last three decades, taking on a host of roles and doing so with pride, dedication, and enthusiasm. Volunteers were presented with a special medal for their service at a celebratory luncheon, and had a chance to connect with members of the B.A.A. staff.
“Thirty years of volunteering is a remarkable milestone,” said Alaina Lotsbom, senior manager of community programs and events for the B.A.A. “You all have witnessed the race evolve, seen records broken, and celebrated countless moments of triumph and unity. You’ve braved the unpredictable New England weather, cheered on thousands of participants, and lent a helping hand when needed the most. You have become an integral part of the Boston Marathon's history.”
More than 9,000 volunteers support
the Boston Marathon every year working in areas including packet stuffing, medical, professional athletes, start line, finish line, and everything in between.
John Dalone
Alice Daily
Kenneth Fitzpatrick
Catherine Fraser
Fred Keuthen
Joanne Lanzillo
Ralph Lapinskas
Mary McCusker
James Miccio
Martin Monteiro
Roger Morrison
Nancy Pickup
Timothy Ryan
Ron Sargent
David Sheehan
Neil Svendsen
Ready, set, go! Together with the Boston Running Collaborative, a series of free youth track and field meets are hosted in the Boston area each year, helping young runners experience the sport for the first time. No prior experience is required; the meet is open to all ability levels. Athletes progress throughout the year and earn ribbons. More information is available at baa.org/get-involved/boston-running-collaborative
The B.A.A. welcomes athletes of all ages and abilities to the B.A.A. Neighborhood Fitness Series presented by Boston Children’s Hospital. Held throughout Boston, the Neighborhood Fitness Series features free walk/runs of varying distances, family-friendly activities, and a celebration of getting active. Join in the fun and begin your fitness journey while earning a unicorn medal.
2024 Schedule (subject to change)
• Sunday, March 10 at the Reggie Lewis Center
• Sunday, May 19 at East Boston Memorial Park
• Saturday, June 1 at Hunt Almont Park
• September (Date TBD) at Franklin Park
• Saturday, October 5 at Pope John Paul II Park
Learn more: bstnmar.org/baafitnessseries
$450,000+
To date, nearly 30 organizations have benefitted from the B.A.A. Gives Back Grants. Through this program, the B.A.A. awards monetary grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 to nonprofits who advance the B.A.A.’s mission of promoting a healthy lifestyle through sports, especially running, in order to build healthy communities. Recipients cover a wide range of initiatives from after-school programs and sports equipment grants, to community running clubs and Para sports.
B.A.A. High Performance Team member Annie Rodenfels is no stranger to winning. She placed first at the 2022 B.A.A. Invitational Mile, and earned three NCAA Division III titles at Centre College in Kentucky. But in New York City last November, Rodenfels
claimed her biggest win yet: her first USA national championship as a pro, secured at the NYRR Dash to the Finish 5K.
Get to know Annie before she races for another victory at the B.A.A. 5K on April 13!
• Growing up in Ohio, Annie played basketball, tennis, and soccer. “I only started running in my junior year of high school when I was 17. I didn’t ever run cross-country—that clashed with soccer, so I joined track.”
• Teamwork makes the dream work. “The B.A.A. team atmosphere has been awesome. We have been really solid on the women's side this year. We all have our good and bad days, but we can all train together, and we have created a really great environment."
• When it comes to mileage, quality over quantity. “Coach Mark Carroll focuses on that. I started training at faster paces, which I then carried over into races, but without the over-training of before. I found my confi-
30,000 Entrants | 9,500 Volunteers |
MARK BAUMAN
54 YEARS: Longest active Men’s Boston Marathon finish streak (5:37:17 last year)
PATTY HUNG
36 YEARS: Longest active Women’s Boston Marathon finish streak (5:40:37 last year)
$50 million
dence and an ability to run faster.”
• Next Stop: Eugene’s Olympic Track Trials. “The goal is to make an Olympic team. The 5,000m is very competitive, but I am going to try and get an Olympic standard. When it comes to the Trials (in June), I am probably going to add in the steeplechase, too.”
• 26.2 in the future? “I plan to do marathons at some point. Will it be my best event? Probably not, but anyone who knows me knows that I am stronger than a lot of people, and I thrive off that. I think I would be good at it, and I would like to have a long career in running, because it’s what I love to do.”
• Best advice? “Believe in yourself. People aren’t always going to give you opportunities, but the value of creating those opportunities, in whatever you choose, is so important. Keep an eye out for Annie and her fellow B.A.A. teammates in the B.A.A. 5K and Invitational Mile on Boston Marathon Weekend.
50 U.S. States | 123 Countries
16,793 athletes will be running their first B.A.A. race
18 years, 1 day: 85 years, 4 months, 6 days:
Youngest Entrant > Briar-Rose Honeywill-Sykes of Florida
Oldest Entrant > Robert Holliday of Florida
$200 million+
ESTIMATED ECONOMIC IMPACT ON GREATER BOSTON COMMUNITY
The B.A.A. has made sustainability a core focus of our events in recent years. Together, we aim to minimize environmental impacts, increase social benefits, and emphasize the importance of fostering a more sustainable event.
New for 2024, all Boston Marathon finisher medals will have been made with recycled steel and ribbons. Made locally by Ashworth Awards, Boston’s medals are believed to be the first major marathon in the world to use 100% recycled metals in creating the finisher medallions.
In 2022 and 2023, all Poland Spring and Gatorade cups at B.A.A. events were compostable. Two compactor trucks collect the cups from the course and 15,440 pounds of waste were diverted away from landfills last year.
Adjacent to the start in Hopkinton are two special benches donated by adidas, made from plastic water bottles collected at the 2023 Boston Marathon. Approximately 9,000 bottles were collected on race day. It takes 950 bottles to create a bench and 2,000 to make a picnic table. Two picnic benches were also created and donated to Boston Public Schools.
At the 2023 Boston Marathon, 21 tons of clothing was collected from Athletes’ Village and the start in Hopkinton. Nearly 200 volunteers gathered the clothes, which were ultimately donated to Big Brother Big Sister Foundation—our partner since 2005.
2024 Celebration Jacket
B.A.A. events reached a 79% waste in 2023.
Did You Know? The Boston Marathon Celebration Jacket is created with materials made of over 50% of recycled ocean plastic and 50% recycled polyester Boston Marathon jackets are made with recycled ocean plastics, and gear check bags are created with 100% recycled polyester.
More than 600 Boston entrants (nearly 3% of the entire field) hail from the state of Colorado. In particular, a trio of contenders in Hellen Obiri, Edna Kiplagat, and Emma Bates have called the Boulder area home in recent years, logging hundreds of miles week in and week out at altitude.
Aside from the picturesque views and endless trails, there’s a buzz around Boulder—especially when training for Patriots’ Day.
“I love here because we have dirt roads, trails are close, and even if you have to go to mountain areas it’s really close, just an hour drive,” said Kiplagat, a two-time Boston winner. “It’s altitude, and we have many people we know here. It’s good to be where you have your people around. You’re all in it together.”
Reigning champion Obiri recently bought a home near Boulder, having made the initial move after Kiplagat spoke so highly of the locale.
“I have my training partners and mates here,” she said. “I can say everything we need is here. We have a great opportunity to train here … It also prepares you for the weather in Boston—if it’s warm, cold, rain. I’ve taken advantage of doing well in weather.”
Bates, fifth place in 2023 and the secondfastest American in Boston history, loves the Colorado camaraderie and culture. She’ll often see Hellen, Edna, and others putting in hard miles.
“It made me fall in love with running so much more, because there’s so many people who run here,” said Bates. “A lot of people figure out their ‘why’ when they move to Boulder … It’s hard to be discouraged in a place like this.”
Scan to visit Hellen, Edna, and Emma in Boulder.
Rick Hoyt
A 36-time Boston Marathon finisher, Rick will always be remembered for personifying the “Yes You Can” mentality that defined Team Hoyt. The B.A.A. was extremely fortunate to call Rick a friend, mentor, pioneer, and Boston Marathon finisher. His legacy will live on through the Rick & Dick Hoyt Award, which is presented each April around the Boston Marathon to someone who exhibits the spirit of Team Hoyt through advocacy and inclusion.
On The Hoyt Foundation’s 2024 Boston Marathon uniforms will be an emblem honoring the 10-year anniversary of Rick & Dick Hoyt’s final Boston Marathon together.
Kelvin Kiptum
A bright star in the running community, Kelvin Kiptum inspiring many with his record runs and performances at Abbott World Marathon Majors events. We looked forward to welcoming the world record holder to the roads of Boston in future years, and were moved by how he covered the marathon distance with grace and determination.
Kelvin and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana of Rwanda, passed away in a vehicle accident in February.
Dick Traum
Dick Traum will be remembered for his advocacy and impact on the sport of running through Achilles International. As the founder and former president and CEO, Traum encouraged athletes with disabilities to pursue road racing and sports. Inducted into the New York Road Runners Hall of Fame, Dick passed away in January. His most recent Boston Marathon finish came in 2019.
Aurèle Vandendriessche
A two-time Boston Marathon champion, Aurèle Vandendriessche scored victories in 1963 and 1964. The only Belgian in history to win Boston, his first title was an upset victory over Olympic Marathon champion Abebe Bikila and eventual gold medalist Mamo Wolde. A master of the Newton hills, Aurèle used the undulations to gap the field and secure wins in 2:18:58 (a course record) and 2:19:59. At the age of 91, he passed away last October.
“You haven’t really been to Boston unless you started in Hopkinton.”
Richard Johnson, Author; Curator, The Sports Museum
Visit Hopkinton and…
This year marks 100 Boston Marathon starts from Hopkinton. There’s a lot to celebrate!
•Take a “selfie” at the Marathon Mural
•View the Winged Foot Art Installation
•Visit Start Line Brewing
•Take part in the StART Line Experience — a self guided art and education tour of the marathon legend sculptures
Details can be found by scanning the QR code.
The two-time Boston champion Joan Benoit Samuelson completed one of the longest Six Star journeys on record when she crossed the finish line in Tokyo last month
SIX STAR STATS:
Total Six Star Finishers:
15,324 Nations represented: 125
Runners with just one star to go:
9,868
SIX STAR JOURNEY LENGTH: 44 years, 10 months and 16 days
The Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star Hall of Fame received another giant surge in membership following the 2024 Tokyo Marathon.
More than 2,600 runners completed their journey in the sun-soaked Japanese capital, with some famous names among those who got their hands on the coveted Six Star medal.
Chief among them was 1984 women’s Olympic marathon champion Joan Benoit Samuelson. After being scuppered by injury the previous year, the 66-year-old, three-time Boston champion was not to be denied in 2024, running an impressive 3:38:37.
Benoit-Samuelson becomes one of the longest-running members of the Hall of Fame, with her first Major on her record
dating back to the 1979 Boston race that she so famously won.
She has also now run marathons in six consecutive decades.
She was joined in the Hall of Fame on Tokyo race day by a number of other notable runners, including British Paralympian Richard Whitehead, who clocked 2:50 in his final Major.
Peloton running instructor Becs Gentry also completed her journey, as
1979
Boston
Joan wins her first Boston Marathon and goes on to claim the 1981 and 1983 titles as well.
1985
Chicago
One year before her Olympic triumph in Los Angeles, she wins in Chicago, taking her PR down to 2:21:21.
1988
New York City
Joan takes third place on her debut in New York.
2019
Berlin
After making several returns to the U.S. Majors, she takes her Six Star quest overseas with Berlin her first stop, where she runs 3:02:21
2022
London
After being interrupted by the pandemic, Joan clocks 3:20:20 in London, leaving Tokyo between her and the Six Star Medal.
2024
Tokyo
Joan finishes in 3:38:37 to clinch her sixth star. She is the first Olympic Marathon champion to own both medals.
did NASCAR Hall of Fame driver Matt Kenseth.
Perhaps the loudest cheer of all was reserved for Chris Nikic, who became the world’s first runner with Down syndrome to run all six Majors.
Nikic began his quest in 2022 in Boston and has taken just two years to reach his Six Star medal. There will be an AbbottWMM documentary on Chris’s achievement out later in the spring.
2023
Runners from across the country and around the world unite on the flat and fast streets of Chicago every October to take on 26.2 miles, set personal records and call themselves Bank of America Chicago Marathon finishers. Experience the excitement at the 46th running of this iconic event on Sunday, October 13, 2024.
When you complete the Boston Marathon 2024 you will earn an Abbott World Marathon Majors star.
Create your Runner Portal at AbbottWMM.com and your star will appear in your account as soon as we upload Boston results.
Claim all of your Majors results in your portal as you make your way towards the Six Star Medal.
Runners aged 40+ can also be part of the AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group World Rankings system. Sign up today!
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2022 Daniel Romanchuk
2021 Marcel Hug
2019 Daniel Romanchuk
2018 Marcel Hug
2017 Marcel Hug
2016 Marcel Hug
2015 Marcel Hug
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If you miss these race weekend highlights, you'll just have to plan another visit.
Make the most of your time visiting the Hub by discovering the top things to see and do as chosen by the travel experts at Yankee magazine.
Marathoning is a mental sport, and so is maximizing your time in Boston during springtime's busiest weekend. To give you an advantage, Yankee’s editors have selected some of their favorite stops in Boston and beyond. These attractions, hotels and restaurants go the extra mile for runners and their supporters. As you plan your Marathon Weekend adventures, or perhaps a future visit to this runner-friendly city, here are some winning experiences to book or build into your itinerary.
For more New England travel ideas, visit Yankee’s website: NewEngland.com
A stroll through America’s oldest public botanical garden is no ordinary walk in the park. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and owned by Harvard University, these 281 rolling acres are where you’ll find some of the most rare and majestic trees and plants in the entire country. Climb the 240-foot summit of Peters Hill—the second-highest point in Boston—and you’ll see the spires of Back Bay and the Financial District in the distance. arboretum.harvard.edu
Housed in a striking I.M. Pei–designed tower rising from the waterfront, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum brings to life the excitement and tensions of the Camelot years. Next door is the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the U.S. Senate, where visitors can explore the younger Kennedy’s political legacy and try their hand at being legislators in a full-scale reproduction of the U.S. Senate chambers. jfklibrary.org; emkinstitute.org
The capital of Massachusetts and the largest city in New England, Boston is a cosmopolitan destination with nearly two dozen vibrant neighborhoods to explore. But for getting your bearings, you can’t beat a trip up to View Boston, a new 360-degree observation deck on top of Prudential Tower, one of the tallest buildings in New England. There’s also an outdoor lounge, bistro, and gift shop, plus an interactive “neighborhood discovery” tool to help you build your travel itinerary. viewboston.com
BEST LOBSTER ROLL: Dive Bar
The food at celebrity chef Tiffani Faison’s seafood bar in the High Street Place food hall has a New Orleansian accent (think po boys, blackened salmon, and a barbecue shrimp bowl). As befits the theme, the incredible brown butter lobster roll has a whiff of sherry, a flavor combination that brings to mind Lobster Newberg—a reminder that classics are classics for a reason. divebarbos.com
BEST PIZZA BAR: Si Cara
Neapolitan canotto-style pizza is remarkable for an extra-puffy crust that takes up about a quarter of the pie’s diameter. It’s crisp, chewy, and tangy from the sourdough starter. And no one in New England does it better than the Cambridge eatery Si Cara, Michael Lombardi’s pizzeria and wine bar. sicarapizza.com
BEST CLASSIC HOTEL: Fairmont Copley Plaza
Designed by the architect of New York’s Plaza Hotel, this c. 1912 Beaux-Arts beauty looks right at home next to such historic treasures as Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library. Inside, the lobby exudes Old World splendor with gilded ceilings, Italian marble columns, and crystal chandeliers. Along with a rooftop health club and an award-winning brasserie, the Fairmont Copley Plaza offers Boston’s only “canine ambassador,” a black Lab who socializes with guests and often joins them on walks and runs. fairmont.com
BEST URBAN HANGOUT: Seaport District
Led by beloved pastry chef Joanne Chang, the bakers at Flour's nine Boston and Cambridge locations turn out top-notch sticky buns and other baked treats. And don’t fret if you miss out on a chance to try Chang's take on Boston cream pie (composed of thin layers of sponge cake and vanilla cream, a subtle soaking of coffee syrup, and chocolate ganache): You can order this 2022 Yankee Food Awards winner for delivery anytime, nationwide. flourbakery.com
The MFA has been the beating heart of the Boston art scene since 1870, presenting its collection in ways intended to foster a deeper understanding of our past, present, and future. Case in point: the ongoing multi-gallery exhibit “Stories Artists Tell,” in which each gallery has a theme that both stands on its own and complements its companion galleries in creating an unforgettable visual anthology. mfa.org
No trip to the Hub is complete without a couple of stops on the Freedom Trail, the 2½-mile route past 16 of the city’s historical landmarks. And while you can certainly navigate it on your own, you’ll learn a lot more about Boston’s role in the Revolutionary War and the growth of a new nation during the dramatic Freedom Trail tours led by rangers from Boston National Historical Park, which encompasses several of the most famous sites, including the Old North Church and Faneuil Hall. nps.gov/bost; thefreedomtrail.org
With a capacity of roughly 38,000, Fenway is one of the smallest parks in the American League, but good things come in small packages. To fully appreciate this c. 1912 shrine to America’s national pastime, take one of the behind-the-scenes tours offered yearround. Listen to tales of Red Sox greats, check out the view from the Green Monster, and peer down at the quirky asymmetrical field from the press box. Even if you’ve been to Fenway dozens of times, you’ve never experienced it quite like this. boston.redsox.mlb.com
One of two Greater Boston zoos operated by Zoo New England (the other is the Stone Zoo in Stoneham), Franklin Park Zoo is a 72-acre gem that’s home to dozens of amazing species, including zebras, gorillas, lions, kangaroos, spotted hyenas, and more. Kids love the seasonal Aussie Aviary and Butterfly Hollow, and there’s even a special behind-the-scenes tour options that offer an up-close encounter with red pandas. The massive playground is another family favorite. zoonewengland.org
Cheese has always been among the top draws at this Cambridge institution. But while the Formaggio Kitchen flagship’s recent move down the block to a light-filled space almost twice as large made more room for the Instagram-worthy cheese counter—stocked with some 300 glorious wheels and wedges— it also allowed them to add a butchery and a seafood department, and to bring in even more gourmet foods from around the globe. Yum! formaggiokitchen.com
When you visit this downtown landmark and one of the oldest and best-known used and antiquarian bookstores in the country, you will likely first browse dozens of bargain titles stacked on carts outside. But inside there are first-edition treasures in a special room that may go for thousands of dollars, as well as hours of browsing for both famous and all-but-forgotten treasures on the floors below. brattlebookshop.com
BEST ICE CREAM:
Christina’s Homemade Ice Cream
Years ago we had a scoop of burnt caramel–prune ice cream at Christina’s that forever changed our idea of what ice cream could be. This legendary Inman Square shop turns out all the other hauntingly marvelous flavors that owner Raymond Ford dreams up, from seasonal Concord grape sorbet, made with locally grown fruit, to always-on-the-menu favorites like Mexican chocolate and cardamom-infused khulfi. Stop in next door to explore Christina’s Spice & Specialty Foods, purveyor of both rare and familiar spices, premium teas, and other culinary gems. Instagram
SATURDAY, AUGUST 31, 2024
Marathon Course Records
Justin Park - Utah
2:26:10 (2012)
Penny Parrish - Idaho 2:56:00 (2016)
Marathon + Half Marathon 10k + 5k
1 Mile + .2 Mile
High % of field runs
Boston
qualifying times
Marathon + Half Pace Teams
20% off Registration Discount Code: IDAHO
Valid thru 7/31/24
POCATELLOMARATHON.COM
The B.A.A. features mass-participatory races at a variety of distances throughout the year, from the mile through the marathon. Looking ahead, the 2024 Boston 10K presented by Brigham and Women’s Hospital will be held on June 23, while the 2024 Boston Half presented by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund will be run on November 10
Run with the B.A.A. all year long through the B.A.A. Running Club! The B.A.A. Running Club is for runners of all ages and abilities looking to improve their fitness. Community and engagement are part of the fabric of the B.A.A. Running Club, meeting weekly for training runs (and social gatherings!) in Greater Boston, and at races throughout New England. Geared towards athletes living in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire or Vermont, join the B.A.A. to take your workouts, training, coaching and fun to the next level! Learn more at baa.org/baa-running-club.
PHOTO: KEVIN MORRIS
TIMES: Friday: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. • Saturday: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. • Sunday: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. LOCATION: Hynes Convention Center, Boston
The Bank of America Boston Marathon Expo is one of your first stops on race weekend, home to bib number pick-up, guest speakers, special photo-ops, and the largest adidas shopping experience in town. The Boston Marathon Expo is free and open to the public.
DOWNLOAD THE B.A.A. RACING APP powered by TCS for up to the minute race weekend information!
TIMES: Friday: 3 p.m.–8 p.m. • Saturday: 9 a.m.–8 p.m. • Sunday: 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
★ NEW LOCATION: City Hall Plaza, Boston
City Hall Plaza will feature fun activities, live music, photo-ops, archives, and more as part of Boston Marathon Fan Fest presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods. Located close to historic Faneuil Hall, Fan Fest is the place to gear up and get excited for race day!
TIMES: Friday: 3 p.m.–8 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
LOCATION: Fan Fest at City Hall Plaza
Unwind at the Samuel Adams Run Pub within Boston Marathon Fan Fest! Enjoy a crisp Samuel Adams 26.2 Brew and explore the marathon-themed beer garden.
TIMES: Friday through Sunday throughout the day
LOCATION: Boylston Street, Copley Square, Boston
Stop by the finish line throughout the week to snap a photo or view exciting video content. Runners from around the globe—including Olympians, Boston champions, and members of the professional field— will take part in photo and autograph sessions over race weekend.
TIME: 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 13 • LOCATION: Boston Common
Nearly 10,000 participants from around the world will race through the streets of Boston as part of the B.A.A. 5K! Starting at Boston Common, the race runs down Boylston Street and over the Boston Marathon finish line before concluding on Charles Street adjacent to the Boston Public Garden.
TIMES: 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 15 • LOCATION: Boston Common
Head to Copley Square to watch professional runners and local student athletes race as part of the B.A.A. Invitational Mile. Past winners include B.A.A. High Performance Team member Annie Rodenfels and Olympic medalist Nick Willis.
TIMES: 5pm – 9 p.m. on Monday, April 15 • ★ NEW LOCATION: City Hall Plaza
Celebrate and re-live the magic of the marathon at the Mile 27 Post-Race Party presented by Samuel Adams! Join hosts Des Linden and Kara Goucher as we cheers to 26.2 miles, crown champions, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
The historic course starts on Main Street in the rural New England town of Hopkinton and follows Route 135 through Ashland, Framingham, Natick, and Wellesley to where Route 135 joins Route 16. It continues along Route 16 through Newton Lower Falls, turning right at the fire station onto Commonwealth Avenue, which is Route 30. It follows Commonwealth Ave. through the Newton Hills, bearing right at the reservoir onto Chestnut Hill Avenue to Cleveland Circle. The route then turns left onto Beacon Street continuing through Brookline, Kenmore Square, and under Massachusetts Avenue. The course turns right onto Hereford Street (against normal traffic flow) then left onto Boylston Street, finishing near the Boston Public Library in Copley Square.
©2024. All rights reserved. No portion of this map may be reproduced without permission of the Boston Athletic Association. Boston Marathon®, B.A.A. Marathon™, and the B.A.A. Unicorn logo are registered trademarks of the Boston Athletic Association. Use of these trademarks without written permission from the Boston Athletic Association is prohibited.
Gatorade
MBTA
Saturday, April 13, 2024
Boston Common, 8:00 a.m.
Sunday, June 23, 2024
Boston Common, 8:00 a.m.
Sunday, November 10, 2024
Franklin Park, Boston, 8:00 a.m.
The Boston Red Sox congratulate the 2024 participants. You rank among champions.
