BAA offering refunds after coronavirus postponement

Boston — Boston Marathon organizers are offering refunds for the first time ever after officials postponed the April race to September because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Entrants can elect to receive a refund for fees associated with the iconic race, the Boston Athletic Association announced on Wednesday.

The race, originally scheduled for April 20, is now scheduled for Sept. 14.

"If entrants cannot participate in September, they will have the opportunity to receive a refund," the association said in a statement.

"Our primary focus remains on the health and well-being of participants, staff, volunteers, spectators, supporters, and everyone in our greater community," Tom Grilk, CEO of the B.A.A., said in a statement. "We'd like our entrants to join us in September. However, while we are in the midst of the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, we want to extend an offer of refund to our entrants so they may be able to plan accordingly."

The September race will serve as a qualifier for the 2021 Boston Marathon.

The B.A.A. 5K, originally scheduled for April 18, has been postponed to Sept. 12. Entrants in the 5K will also be able to receive a refund.

On March 13, officials announced that the Boston Marathon had been postponed amid the coronavirus crisis.

"The B.A.A. has been cooperating with municipal leaders from the eight cities and towns through which the marathon course runs to coordinate the September dates for Boston Marathon weekend," the B.A.A. said in a statement.