Hopkinton Asks Runners To Stay Home On Patriots Day After Coronavirus Forced Boston Marathon Postponement
HOPKINTON (CBS) – The Town of Hopkinton is asking runners to stay home on Patriots Day.
The Boston Marathon was originally set for Monday. But it's been postponed until September 14 due to coronavirus.
Town officials are worried people may try to run the marathon route anyway.
They say that could put runners, first responders and residents of the towns along the route at risk.
Extra parking restrictions will be in place near the start line on Monday.
"I remember coming out here in middle school like taking a picture in front of the newly painted starting line with my friends," said Hopkinton resident Bridget Lee.
The faded yellow and blue starting line won't be getting fresh paint for a few more months, and residents won't be seeing the crowds gathering until September.
"I get teary eyed when the runners start going," said Hopkinton resident Deb Thomas.
For members of the Hopkinton Running Club, Patriot's Day won't feel the same this year.
"It's strange, it's really strange because it's really our best day of the year here," said Hopkinton resident Laura McKenzie.
Instead, these runners say their best day of the year can wait.
"Running a marathon on Monday is certainly not essential," said Thomas.
The Town of Hopkinton and the Boston Athletic Association agree, and are asking anyone thinking of running the marathon route to stay home.
"First responders work 24/7 to try and keep us all healthy and to have them have to come out and maybe pick somebody up that twists an ankle or loses their wind or something like that it's putting them at an unnecessary risk," said Hopkinton Selectman John Coutinho.
"We very much look forward to seeing what Hopkinton looks like at the starting line in September with leaves on the trees and green grass it will be a very different look it should be quite fun, it will be something of a singularity," added B.A.A. CEO Tom Grilk.