For the first time in its 124-year history, the Boston Marathon will be canceled. The race will now be run as a virtual race.
Today, Mayor Marty Walsh announced that the race, which was originally pushed out from April to September, will be now canceled and ran as a virtual race.
“There’s way to hold this usual race format without bringing large numbers of people into close proximity,” Mayor Walsh stated. “And while our goal and hope was to make progress in containing the virus and recovering our economy, this kind of event would not be responsible or realistic on Sept. 14 or anytime this year.”
Each year, more than 30,000 people run the Boston Marathon, bringing in close to a million spectators along the course.
Any participant who was originally registered for the race will be given a full refund. Additionally, they will have the chance to participate in the Virtual Boston Marathon. This race can be run any time between September 7th – 14th.
The CEO of the Boston Athletic Association, Tom Grilk, stated, “Our top priority continues to be safeguarding the health of the community, as well as our staff, participants, volunteers, spectators, and supporters. While we cannot bring the world to Boston in September, we plan to bring Boston to the world for a historic 124th Boston Marathon.”
To bring Boston to the world, there will be virtual activities and events throughout September 7th – 14th, including interviews and panel discussions.
Planning to participate in the virtual marathon? You’ll need to complete the marathon within six hours, and also provide proof of your time.
For more details, visit the B.A.A. website for information.
