As a three time finisher of the Boston Marathon my heart goes out to the victims and families of today's bombing. I cannot imagine the pain and confusion that this cowardly event as caused.
The Boston Marathon is the premier running event for 26,000 plus runners representing every state, and 6 US territories. Add in the 96 other countries that sent runners from Algeria, to Uraquay, and even Vietnam and you have a truly international celebration held yearly in Boston.
I love the Boston marathon. I love the bus drivers that drive you in the early morning hours 26.2 miles away. I love the folks in the athlete village who provide refreshments. I love the folks who help guide you in the corrals prior to the start. I love the throngs of people who party along the route in cities like Hopkinton, Ashland, Natick, Newton, Brookline, and Boston. I love the little kids who along the way hand out water, or fruit, or hard candy. I love the women of Wellesley for their homemade signs, screams, and kisses. I love the volunteers who make the race so well organized. I love the police and first responders who can be seen assisting along the route. I love the students who offer the beer once in Brookline and Kenmore Square. I love the fans who as they get out of the Boston Red Sox game to join the celebration. I love the final turn on to Boylston, when a runner tries to exhibit great form when in essence the majority are doing the "Boylston shuffle." I love the finish line and all who greet the runners. I love the people of Boston, from cabbie, to staff at the hotels, to waitstaff in the restaurant, to all who make this the greatest running event held yearly.
And you are all in my thoughts. Love you all! See you next year.