Marathon set for October, maybe
The tentative 2021 date of the Boston Marathon will be Oct. 11, the Boston Athletic Association announced on Tuesday, saying it depends on whether road races are allowed in Massachusetts this fall amid the state’s coronavirus reopening plan.
The iconic race traditionally held in April was pushed to at least this fall because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We announce the 2021 Boston Marathon date with a cautious optimism, understanding full well that we will continue to be guided by science and our continued collaborative work with local, city, state, and public health officials,” Tom Grilk, president and CEO of the B.A.A., said in a statement. “If we are able to hold an in-person race in October, the safety of participants, volunteers, spectators, and community members will be paramount.”
Last year, the in-person April race was initially delayed to September.
Then that September inperson race was canceled, and replaced with a virtual race in which participants ran 26.2 miles on their own.
“While it was of course the right thing to do, canceling the 2020 Boston Marathon for the first time in its 124-year history was one of the hardest announcements to make,” Mayor Marty Walsh said in a statement. “Today, I’m filled with hope, as we set our sights on October for the running of the 125th Boston Marathon. We have a ways to go before we’re out of the woods, but guided by sound judgment and the advice of our public health experts, I am hopeful that we’ll get to enjoy the return of one of Boston’s most storied traditions this fall.”
The B.A.A. will also offer a virtual race option this year.
“Massachusetts continues to fight COVID-19 and distribute vaccines across the Commonwealth, and with brighter days ahead, we are looking forward to getting back to a new normal in 2021,” Gov. Charlie Baker said in a statement. “We will continue to work with local partners and the B.A.A. to monitor the situation and remain hopeful that the 125th Boston Marathon can take place this October.”
Additional details including field size for the inperson race, registration dates and participant requirements will be released later.