My runner’s heart is breaking over what happened in Boston yesterday. As someone said on Twitter, as a runner, I felt like someone had just attacked my friends. As a person, I am just horrified.
I was not in Boston this year for the race, but I have had the pleasure of spectating it twice in the past and I know what a fun and exciting day it usually is for Bostonians and everyone else there to cheer friends and family on. My brother went to college in Boston and in 2008, my friend Kris and I cheered on our best friend Turner from the steps of my brother’s frat house as she ran the race. I didn’t take many photos back then but we did take a late night trip to the finish line area the night before the race just to see it in all its glory. The longest I’d ever run in 2008 was 5 miles, and I remember being so awed by how far everyone would have run by the time they crossed that finish line, victorious, the next day.
For someone to take the finish line of a marathon – and not just any marathon, but Boston, the holy grail of marathons – and change it from a place of power, pride, and happiness into that of fear and sadness is just devastating. I honestly couldn’t believe it when I heard the news yesterday. My heart goes out to all those affected by this terrible tragedy.
I encourage all of you to get out there and run today – for yourself, for Boston, and for those who can’t. If you can, wear a race shirt – either on your run or to work if your office allows. I’m sporting my Las Vegas Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon shirt and will be all day.
Let’s show the world how strong runners are. Boston – this one’s for you.
If you know of any ways that we can help from afar, please share in the comments.
