For most avid runners, running the Boston Marathon is akin to making the pilgrimage to Mecca. Boston has a history and mythology unlike any other race. The drama that unfolds over the course of those 26 miles between Hopkinton and Boston is a springtime tradition. Read on to learn run the Boston Marathon.
Instructions
1. Register with the Boston Athletic Association (BAA). You must prove you have met the qualifying time for your age and gender group. You can get a qualifying time only by participating in other races that hold the same standard as the Boston Marathon. Obtain an application from the BAA by writing to: Boston Athletic Association, Race Application, "The Starting Line," 1 Ash St., Hopkinton, Mass., 01748-1897. You can also call (617) 236-1652 or check online. You might choose to raise money during your run for the Jimmy Fund or other charitable organizations; information about this is available through the BAA.
2. Prepare for the race day by eating carbohydrates, staying hydrated and getting plenty of sleep. Don't overdo your workouts the week before the race. Stretch frequently.
3. Pack your gear carefully. Be sure you bring sunscreen, Vaseline (or other lubricant to prevent chafing), warm clothes for the finish, a hat, a watch, Gu or other energizing snacks and water. Your bag goes on a bus that will meet you in Boston. For Hopkinton, you need pre-race clothes you can discard, something to stave off noon-time hunger, fluids and applied sunscreen. The discarded clothes are collected and donated to charity. Watch the weather and have appropriate layers.
4. Arrive in Hopkinton two hours before the race. Athletic Village at the local high school will be busy and full of runners. Portable potties are available all over town, but lines are long, so be prepared to wait.
5. Keep a slow pace for the first 10 miles. The starting line gets congested and many runners move too quickly. Enjoy these early miles. Be sure to wave to kids and other spectators who line the route between Hopkinton and Wellesley. Around mile three, visit the water station.
6. Arrive in Boston and meet your buddy. It is always a good idea to have someone at the end to meet. You should plan beforehand where to meet so that you don't lose each other in the crowd. Make sure you pick up your gear bag and medal and turn in your runner's chip. Visit the massage tent to meet other runners, get free chicken soup and, of course, a massage.
7. Do it all again next year.
Tags: Boston Marathon, Athletic Association, before race, between Hopkinton, Boston Athletic, Boston Athletic Association, qualifying time