Boston has always been a fun town to visit. It has
unmatched historical points of interest as well as great restaurants and scenic
places to run. My favorite time to visit Boston is in the spring when the
leaves and flowers are just beginning to open. The snow has melted and the days
are beginning to warm.

I have made the pilgrimage to Boston several times to
join fellow athletes on the starting line of the Boston Marathon. The training
runs along the Charles River, Race Expo, and pre-race pasta feed enhances the
excitement for race-day. I am always amazed with how friendly and helpful Bostonian’s
and visiting runners are. Everyone wants you to have a good run. The whole city
is like family.
By the time you get off the buses in Hopkinton, 26 miles outside
of Boston, everyone is full of nervous energy. No matter how many times you
have run this race, you know this day will be special.
The spectators and volunteers are the best in running. Boston
seems to have the loudest, most enthusiastic, encouraging, fun, and helpful
bunch of people lining the course. I like the unofficial family aid stations
along the way. Little kids hand out water and orange slices. Spectators of all
ages hold their hands out to get a hand slap from the passing runners. If you
wear a shirt with your name on it, they yell your name. Wear your city name and
they shout your city. Walking is not an option. The spectators scream at you to
keep running.
Running down Boylston Street to the finish is unlike any
other finish line. There are thousands of people lining the streets to watch
and encourage everyone across the line. The feeling of being part of the Boston
tradition always exceeded any personal satisfaction I felt from finishing the
race. Boston always made me feel like a winner.
I last ran the Boston Marathon in 1996 for the 100th
year anniversary. I have fond memories of the place, but had no plans to return.
After the bombings this year, my memories seem tarnished. I will return to
Boston to renew those old memories. Bostonians and my running family are resilient
and will not be deterred.
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