BOSTON — The world-famous Boston Marathon is being run in person this year. Even though it’s the same 26.2 miles, there are some major changes in the wake of the pandemic. One of course is the time of year they are running it; the April marathon will be in October but will return to April next year.
The global pandemic sidelined the marathon for 900 days. Tom Grilk, president and CEO of the Boston Athletic Association, said they figured out a way to pull it off.
“As society tries to reopen, we wanted to help with the re-opening of society,” Grilk said.
“Looked for a way to space out people, and that’s why we are having a rolling start such that when runners get to Hopkinton, they get off the bus and just go,” Grilk said.
All runners have to be either vaccinated or show a negative COVID test. Spectators who get caught in crowded areas are urged to wear masks, even outside. The BAA said it consulted with scientists to maximize social distancing.
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Lt Colonel James Hanlon with the Massachusetts State Police said it is front and center eight years after the marathon bombing.
“I can assure you it’s a very comprehensive, layered approach to security at this year’s event,” Hanlon said.
MEMA Director Samantha Phillips said the state is also monitoring the change that the Red Sox could be playing at Fenway on the same day if they stay in the playoffs.
“While having two events is challenging, there are things that help. The state emergency ops center will be activated so we can pivot and handle new issues that may arise,” Phillips said.
Chimeen Ali is running her first Boston marathon.
“We have to show our vaccine card, or you have to do the testing,” Ali said.
She was in Boston early to make sure she has everything she needs to run.
“People are going to be cheering us too, so I am excited,” Ali said.
The marathon will start an hour earlier and there will be a rolling start to help space runners out.