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In the heart of Copley Square, tucked away in Boston’s Back Bay, is a sort of temporary fair. There are exhibits and artifacts showcasing the old runners, two stages, and even a cornhole area.
Everything is set for the Boston Marathon, which is obviously a little different this year – one difference in particular is that it will take place in October. Days before the race, the runners rushed close to the finish line on Boylston, picking up their jackets and soaking up everything.
With the turning leaves of fall framing the course rather than the flowers of April, the racing conditions are much different. Runner Lillian Smith says she enjoys running in the fall.
“I’m excited it’s October. I think the weather is going to be amazing – better than April, more predictable, you know?” she said. “Even though the size of the pitch is smaller, I think so many people want to get out. We’ve been locked up for a year.”
Smith is a charity participant who runs in honor of her mother, who passed away in 2015. She will be one of many charity runners to run the course this year.
This year’s marathon is not only different for those who run, but also for those who come to show their support. Some of the bars along Boylston, once coveted for their views of the last stretch and the finish line, have closed during the pandemic. For some participants, this means getting creative.
“My husband is probably going to try to get on the train and hit us in different places,” said runner Jill Washington. She came from Chicago to Boston and is running the marathon for the first time.
“He’ll follow me on the app and just try to go to different places to watch,” she said.
Tanner Watson, meanwhile, will be supporting his wife, Kailani, in a more comfortable environment.
“We are staying at the Commonwealth Hotel, so my plan is just to stay outside the hotel or look downstairs from the hotel room.”
For those looking to watch in person, the city asks people to avoid large crowds and wear a mask.
A group of friends running the marathon soaked up the events and events of Saturday. Each qualified for last year’s race, but ended up running it separately and virtually because of the coronavirus. Jenna McHugh says they’re thrilled to be in Boston in person and with their friends.
“We have already been arrested several times. [People are] just saying, “Are you running?” Thanks for coming. Good luck. We are so excited that you are here! ‘”
McHugh said support is what makes Boston a go-to race, even in a pandemic.
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