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Red Sox legend David Ortiz to serve as Boston Marathon grand marshal

BOSTON — Ten years ago, David Ortiz was one of Boston’s inspiring and rallying voices in the wake of the tragedy at the 2013 Boston Marathon. This year, he’ll once again be leading the city, this time from the starting line of Boston’s greatest tradition.

Three days shy of the 10th anniversary of his iconic “This is our f---ing city” speech, the three-time World Series champion will serve as Grand Marshal for the 127th Boston Marathon on April 17.

“Ortiz embodied the strength and resilient spirit of Boston both on and off the playing field throughout his career,” the Boston Athletic Association said in a statement.

Ortiz will lead the 30,000 registered runners from the starting line in Hopkinton into Boston on Marathon morning.

Although the marathon won’t be run until Monday, the weekend is still full of events for runners, families and fans.

The Boston Marathon Expo begins on Friday and runs throughout the weekend. Marathon runners will be able to pick up their bib numbers, take photos, and shop for running merchandise.

Boston Marathon Fan Fest also begins on Friday, April 14th. Copley Square Park will feature live music, entertainment, meets and greets, and more.

The Boston Marathon Light Up the Night Projection Show will feature three unique shows at the Fairmont Copley Plaza each night. The shows will feature highlight videos and memorable moments from the prestigious history of the 127-year-old tradition.

On Saturday, April 15, the city will remember the victims of the bombing at the 2013 Boston Marathon as part of One Boston Day. There will be an early morning private gathering to lay wreaths at the finish line for the victims of the tragedy. Boston first responders will also be present at memorial sites throughout the day. The public can visit the memorial sites later in the day.

At 2:30 p.m., Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Governor Maura Healey, and other local leaders will meet for the dedication of a new commemorative finish line, the ringing of bells and the unveiling of a One Boston Day marker on Boylston Street.

The 2023 B.A.A. Distance Medley, the 2023 B.A.A Relay Challenge and the 2023 B.A.A. Invitational Mile will also be held on Saturday.

Finally, on Monday, April 17, the world’s oldest continually running marathon will get underway as participants make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston.

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