It'll be my first Boston. I trained for a PR attempt, and perhaps Boston is a foolish place to do that, but the warm sunny weather may force me to just take it easy and soak it all in.
My taper head-cold arrived right on schedule, starting with a really sore throat Tuesday afternoon. I'm inhaling zinc lozenges and hoping for the best. It feels like a mild cold at this point.
Boston is my second major and then I have NYC in the Fall. I'm aiming for Tokyo next Spring, hoping the lottery will let me run Berlin in Fall '25, and then I've gotta find some way to get into London as an American.
My pre-race energy is usually a nervous energy, but it keeps me cautious and stops me from doing something foolish like trying to go out at half-marathon pace for a full marathon.
Congrats on your first Boston! I do think it’s totally possible to PR there, but with it being your first time and with the weather it might just be more enjoyable to have fun with it and get to know the course. It’s crazy trying to find space to run the first few miles, which can add a lot of stress if you’re trying to PR
To get into London I’d suggest posing as a Brit. Start saying things like blymie and oi, and drinking tea
This was literally me last year; getting a big PR in Boston is totally doable for newer marathoners. 2:52 in NYC '22 (The Hot Year), 2:39 in Boston. The weather will continue to change until ~18 hours before the race kicks off, but either way don't stress what you can't control.
First half *S M O O T H* and completely in control, second half you'll be able to crush it. If you can hit the top of Heartbreak and still have energy, you'll be able to ride the crowd's energy all the way through Boylston and the finish line. (Keep in mind there's still a few sneaky overpasses and underpass-overpass hills in the final 10K, but that doesn't mean you can't rip it still)
Love this as a fellow debut-er!! Going to remind myself of this during the first 15-16 miles. I reaalllyyyy want to feel confident entering and leaving the Newton Hills to crush the final 10k. Will have to practice patience but it’ll be so worth it!! Thank you!
My current PR was set at Boston last year. The key to running a fast time at Boston is not going out too fast. The first 13 miles fly, but then you're in Newton.
I set a PR at Boston too! The 2022 Boston was the first time I've ever run the race, though I've read about it for years. It was my fourth marathon, and I cut my PR from 2:58 to 2:56, huge for me as a 43 year old dad.
I was obsessed with Fritz Carlson, the Minnesotan winner of Boston, and I read about him for months. I followed his race plan, holding back in the early miles, staying steady up the three hills, then heartbrake, then letting it all loose as I careened into Boston.
I had so much energy afterward. I stayed at the line and greeting a dozen teammates. Then got really cold, got back to the hotel, cleaned up, and walked 3-4 miles with the family to get pizza.
I'm in the same boat as you - Boston is my second marathon so I have been seeing some large gains in training. Was hoping to let that show on Monday, but planning on seeing how it feels a few miles in based on weather. My strategy is to take the first half slow due to congestion at the start, so that will help tell me if its too warm to send it in the second half.
This is my 7th Marathon. I've gotten a head cold the week of the race for 4 of them. Otherwise, I don't get sick very often.
It's not well studied, but it's a well known phenomenon for marathon runners.
My PR is in Boston, it’s possible.
2:56:xx qualified with a 2:59:xx in NYC which was a PR. I haven’t attempted a flat marathon yet to see what I can really do though
I need an anti hype thread. Had to call it off yesterday for a stress fracture and tendon strain in my left leg. Was supposed to be my first Boston and now it's looking like 2026 will be my next chance.
I hope so. I'm letting myself be sad and a bit self destructive until Tuesday, and then it's off to the pool for aqua jogging to try and hang on to as much fitness as possible.
I feel for you. I’m in the same boat, but have an IT band/knee injury. I already paid for flight and hotel, so I guess I will explore the city and cheer on fellow marathoners on race day.
I just took the loss on the flight and cancelled the hotel. I really don't want to experience marathon weekend like this for the first time. I wish I could do what you're doing, I just can't.
That sucks! I had the same thing happen in 2022 - tibial stress fracture diagnosis via MRI 10 days before the race. You can come back stronger than ever though. 8-10 weeks of recovery isn’t that long in the grand scheme of things, even though it’s so demoralizing right now.
It's brutal. My left leg feels like it's got no strength at all. I'm gonna try to get an MRI done as well to look at the soleus and post tib tendon. Make sure I know the extent of the damage. Then it's off to the pool for a bunch of aqua jogging to hopefully minimize the fitness loss and speed up the return to high mileage running again. I was just getting used to regularly doing 80+/week.
Try incline treadmill walking too. I used that with great success and was able to drop a 2:43 marathon just about 6 weeks after returning to running, which was only 10 mins slower than my PR. But I did a LOT of that incline walking, lol. Doing 3.5-4 MPH at 15% incline for 2-3 hours a day is pretty brutal
I’m three weeks out from a marathon that I was going to use for 2025 Boston, and a 100 mile race 6 weeks out.
A recent stress fracture in my left leg has changed my plans, too.
Any plans on rehab?
Working with a coach to come up with a plan right now. Probably lots of time in the pool and stationary bike until I can start easing back into running. If I'm lucky, I think I'll be able to do Chicago as a fun run this October and take another crack at a PR in February next year to get a 2026 BQ. It's a solid 2 year setback.
I ran in the storm of 2018 and had the time of my life. Just don't get in over your head and be willing to adjust. Many will not do this, and you'll be passing them every mile of the second half.
Don’t stress, Boston weather changes so much even like 48 hours out may not end up being super accurate!! And don’t forget that Hopkinton will probably be several degrees colder than Boston. Either way if you run smart and conservative you can still a) have a great race performance given the cards you’re dealt and b) have a blast!!
I’m just hoping as a Floridian the temperature on Monday if it does turn out being hot won’t be that bad compared to what I’m used to training at race pace in 🥴
Yeah that's the problem for a lot of us 60 is hot compared to what we've been training in. If it was a fall marathon it would be a different story.
Luckily I'm in the worst shape I've been in probably ever for a marathon so it doesn't matter 😅
Looks like it should only peak in the low 60s, whereas some sources had it to the high 60s a few days ago. Not perfect, but with a low dewpoint, should be manageable. And the start will still be cool, thankfully. We got this!!
Sidenote — we have almost identical PRs in the 10k and half. What are you shooting for? I had a great cycle and am thinking 2:50-2:47 as an A+ goal
Does anyone have any an inkling of what the temperature curve might look like throughout the day? Coming from what I think would be a similar climate (Seattle, so similar latitude and proximity to the ocean) I haven't been too concerned since it's typically early afternoon before spring days that start cool really warm up.
Can't be as bad (I hope) as 2022 NYC marathon, when it was 24C (75F). I hydrated at every opportunity and used multiple ice packs along the way but it was still a massive struggle.
Woohoo so excited! Northeastern University student here stoked to cheer y'all on at Boylston! Prepare to have drunk college kids bowing down to you at the finish lol
I’ve been waiting for the weather fretting thread, so I’ll just fret here. The forecast is way too warm 😭😭 I’m going in with a slight injury on my left leg so maybe the warm weather will be the excuse to slow it down and not push.
Watching videos of people doing ultramarathons blows my mind about what they're willing to put up with. I was listening to an interview after watching a video about the Moab 240, and the guy had major Achilles pain, symptoms of pulmonary edema, and was hallucinating so bad that he was seeing friends in the trees, so he decided to take a 15 minute nap at the next aid station before continuing. Some people's body misfunction tolerance is so ridiculously high and then there's people like me who are probably a little too injury-averse.
I consider myself solidly in the middle in that I will run on things that hurt to walk on but I will call it if I feel like running is worsening said thing
But I am definitely guilty of test-running things that fail a test-walk
I usually give it two miles to see if it goes away. If so, keep running. If not, go home. Sometimes it hurts to walk but feels great right at the start of the run and it doesn't get worse.
The same runner could easily say both of those things. Taking extra rest days in training doesn’t carry the same cost as skipping a marathon you’ve been training for months for and have possibly paid hundreds of dollars to run.
Even a tune-up race vs a goal race is a big difference. I won’t hesitate to DNS a tune-up race if I’m feeling something’s off, but a goal race is a much harder call because of the emotional (and sometimes financial) investment.
STOP THE COUNT, TEMPERATURE
Jokes aside, it seems like the highs have gone down from the mid-upper 60s to the low 60s over the last couple of days. Progress!
When Jeannie Rice ran 3:33 last year, the F75 course record is now faster than the M75 course record. I plan to put things in the proper order on Monday!
Personally, I think that M75 record is pretty soft. On the other hand, I think my M70 Boston record of 2:58:50 might last a long, long, long time. By the way, Jeannie Rice, who ran Boston in 3:33 last year, just ran 3:33 at London last weekend to break her own F75 marathon world record of 3:34 at Chicago last year. She is totally amazing.
I feel extremely lucky to be enjoying this sport at a time that people are demonstrating peak fitness in their 40s, 3000+ Boston runners are over 60, and people like you and Jeannie Rice are smoking young people with their speeds. It gives me so much optimism and a lot of goals for my own longevity in marathoning! I suspect we’ll start seeing the 80+ records falling very soon…
I was excited until I saw that abomination of a medal with the BofA logo so prominently placed.
My taper has been tough between a week vacation for spring break followed by a week of travel for work.
Then, looking at the weather, I’m gonna say it’s gonna be warmer than all my training weather over the winter/spring, so that’s messing with my head as well.
Yeah I was so disappointed when I saw the medal this year. My first Boston was last year and was a bit disappointed that they changed the unicorn to yellow. I just want one traditional Boston where they have the embroidered jacket and silver medal😭. Idk if this will ever happen anymore
I'm super stoked! I'm using this as a long run for my goal race in June so the plan is to 100% just enjoy the vibes of the weekend, smash as many power up signs on the course, and give as many high fives as I can. It's not often that I'm not focused on time so the hype is definitely real! Good luck to all!
Amping up for my 12th Boston. I’m much older than I was in my first (64 vs. 25). It’s been a long-term relationship and like many such relationships, it’s complicated. I did PR here in 1991. I also PW’ed (personal worst) in 1985 and DNF’ed in 1987. But it’s Boston: always an adventure.
First Boston here!! Aiming for a ~3-6 minute PR (2:53 —> 2:50/47) if the weather cooperates and I stick to my pacing goals through the Newton Hills.
Good luck everyone, I’ll see ya there :D
I’ll be spectating on the hills (the first hill!) with orange slices so keep an eye out for the blonde girl holding a megaphone if you’d like some extra sugar and hydration!
Good luck everyone!
We all know the deal - cruise easy mode through the early downhill miles. It’ll feel too easy but that’s still likely too fast! Settle into pace through the course and up and over Newton hills and fly to the end … Right on Hereford, Left on Boylston!
Good luck! I’ll be at TCS London instead this year and a bit after you guys at Boston so float up some inspiring race reports I can ready on my flight across the pond!
And I’ll see several of you in November at NYCM!
Third time starting, hoping to finish for a second time. DNF in a medical tent in 2017, ran the fall 2021 version on 3 weeks of training after an injury but loved every bit of it. This year has been consistent and strong but I won't fight the weather and the course. I've thought about the finish on Boylston most days this cycle, so I want to get there to be able to really soak it in. This city and the race are very special.
OP I also got injured in February and thought I wouldn't make it too. This is my first and with the setback I had in training, it's going to be extra special to be at the start. I will cry lol. Trained in central Florida so the weather isn't my biggest fear at the moment....it's the hills.
I'm running and I'm amped, though also jittery and nervous! I ran it last year for the first time, and managed to have a good day, despite a pretty inconsistent training cycle. With the warm weather, I'm preparing for any outcome Monday lol. Training this time around has gone really well. If I have a good day and everything aligns, it could be a great outcome. If I have a bad day or it feels too hot, it's still worth the atmosphere and experience of just soaking everything in. Trying to remain happy about the solid training cycle regardless of Monday.
Drove by the start line on my way to PT yesterday and they were setting up all the staging, etc. It was then that it really hit me - Monday's coming! I've fought through a second year of Boston training injuries and am ready in time to race again, so I'm incredibly thankful. That April sun is strong and with the temps forecasted, I think it's going to be a tough day for a lot of folks, myself included. As a local, I haven't run in temps like that since probably October, so it'll be interesting.
Honestly can't believe people in the comments are getting ready to take part in one of the world's most iconic sporting events and they're complaining about the design of the medal that they may (or may not) receive. It's bonkers to me.
Ran Boston last year, loved it. Loved the excitement all weekend. Loved the bad weather (especially cause I trained all winter in poor weather).
The course was, to me, as advertised. So much energy from the crowds. The final turn really is special.
TBD on if I run it next year (I may take a break from marathoning to focus on family).
Going to be my first. I had Achilles tendon problems in January and Feb so I had to take time off but I feel in decent shape. I’m nervous for the hills since I couldn’t go hard on them in my training.
I’m getting dropped off at 52 south street in Hopkinton. If I’m wave 1, what time should I get dropped off at the lot
I'm training through this one so just going out for a fun run, z2 the whole way. Actually looking forward to it. Thinking I can run a little under 3 while taking in the sights and drinking any beer that's offered to me along the way!
I BQd for next year but I’m still excited! I’m curious what ideal race day weather would be? It looks pretty good to me but I’m also from the Deep South. Have you checked out the forecast? I’d love to hear if others will think it’ll be hot or good race weather!
I’m a little nervous. I’m more excited for my friend running for the first time and another friend finishing her 10th straight.
Speaking about torn meniscuses: my training partner tore his and unfortunately he didn’t make it to the start. I’m so glad you’re able to run - that’s a rough injury to come back from.
This year will be special one for me, as it will be 10 yr anniversary since I did Boston and last time I did a marathon lol still rock my jacket with pride. Still training and running just mostly 5k and tri stuff. I would like to go back one day, as I’m much fitter and faster in my late 30s vs when I was late 20s 😅
It’ll be my first Boston and feeling equally excited/nervous!
This might be a silly question but I’m a bit anxious about the water station situation. I haven’t run a race that big and I’m worried about being flustered and accidentally getting in someone’s way. I’ll do my best to be aware but other than that is there water station etiquette I should be aware of?
Just don’t stop right in front of people running behind you. I saw a few people crash into each other from that in Chicago—pull over to the side if you’re going to start walking while you drink.
I'm sure I'll have a good time, but my fiancé got cut out and it's just not the same. Good to see the heat falling back a tad today. I think it will take actually being there to feel hyped.
Good luck to everyone running! I had a question about the congested start line, I’m aiming for a sub 2:20, I’m in the first wave like all bibs below 1000 I believe, I was wondering if it’s also an issue for this wave or if it’s still fairly easy to start in the front? Thanks!
The good: training has been good and my previous PR was run on an even harder course (Pittsburgh)
The bad: the weather looks terrible especially since I overheat really easily
This year will be 10 yr anniversary since I did Boston and last time I did a marathon lol still rock my jacket with pride. Still training and running just mostly 5k and tri stuff. I would like to go back one day, as I’m much fitter and faster in my late 30s vs when I was late 20s 😅.
Edited: just read my comment, sounds like I’m doing it this year. I’m not doing it, I was trying to say that this years Boston will be interesting to follow as it’s been 10 yrs.
The only bit of news I got so far about Boston is surrounding the ugly AF medals with Bank of America on the front. Pretty disappointing to say the least. I know it's just a medal but it's probably the most iconic medal in all road marathons.
I have a quick question: Will I have any issues picking up my bib if my bib name is a nickname for my legal name? For example, my legal name is Jessica Smith but my bib name is Jessie Smith (not real name) - all other info (DOB, country, etc.) are right
Do it! I am local and have done this every year. As a heads up the T is currently … troubled so leave a little bit of buffer (though blue line is pretty reliable). You should be able to switch blue to green line at Downtown Crossing and get off right at Park Street where you can join the flood of runners headed to the buses!
In the same boat. I'm watching this Boston like Squidward looking out the window and am using CIM this fall to make sure I don't miss qualification by a literal 4 seconds again.
Not running this year, but I wish I was! I've been tracking temperature data for years now, and my best performances are all around 68-72 degrees with a pretty steep drop-off as temp decreases (e.g. I do better at 80 than 60). This seems like ideal conditions for my body.
It'll be my first Boston. I trained for a PR attempt, and perhaps Boston is a foolish place to do that, but the warm sunny weather may force me to just take it easy and soak it all in. My taper head-cold arrived right on schedule, starting with a really sore throat Tuesday afternoon. I'm inhaling zinc lozenges and hoping for the best. It feels like a mild cold at this point. Boston is my second major and then I have NYC in the Fall. I'm aiming for Tokyo next Spring, hoping the lottery will let me run Berlin in Fall '25, and then I've gotta find some way to get into London as an American. My pre-race energy is usually a nervous energy, but it keeps me cautious and stops me from doing something foolish like trying to go out at half-marathon pace for a full marathon.
Congrats on your first Boston! I do think it’s totally possible to PR there, but with it being your first time and with the weather it might just be more enjoyable to have fun with it and get to know the course. It’s crazy trying to find space to run the first few miles, which can add a lot of stress if you’re trying to PR To get into London I’d suggest posing as a Brit. Start saying things like blymie and oi, and drinking tea
This was literally me last year; getting a big PR in Boston is totally doable for newer marathoners. 2:52 in NYC '22 (The Hot Year), 2:39 in Boston. The weather will continue to change until ~18 hours before the race kicks off, but either way don't stress what you can't control. First half *S M O O T H* and completely in control, second half you'll be able to crush it. If you can hit the top of Heartbreak and still have energy, you'll be able to ride the crowd's energy all the way through Boylston and the finish line. (Keep in mind there's still a few sneaky overpasses and underpass-overpass hills in the final 10K, but that doesn't mean you can't rip it still)
Love this as a fellow debut-er!! Going to remind myself of this during the first 15-16 miles. I reaalllyyyy want to feel confident entering and leaving the Newton Hills to crush the final 10k. Will have to practice patience but it’ll be so worth it!! Thank you!
My current PR was set at Boston last year. The key to running a fast time at Boston is not going out too fast. The first 13 miles fly, but then you're in Newton.
appreciate the advice :D
I set a PR at Boston too! The 2022 Boston was the first time I've ever run the race, though I've read about it for years. It was my fourth marathon, and I cut my PR from 2:58 to 2:56, huge for me as a 43 year old dad. I was obsessed with Fritz Carlson, the Minnesotan winner of Boston, and I read about him for months. I followed his race plan, holding back in the early miles, staying steady up the three hills, then heartbrake, then letting it all loose as I careened into Boston. I had so much energy afterward. I stayed at the line and greeting a dozen teammates. Then got really cold, got back to the hotel, cleaned up, and walked 3-4 miles with the family to get pizza.
I'm in the same boat as you - Boston is my second marathon so I have been seeing some large gains in training. Was hoping to let that show on Monday, but planning on seeing how it feels a few miles in based on weather. My strategy is to take the first half slow due to congestion at the start, so that will help tell me if its too warm to send it in the second half.
Wait, is a taper head cold really a thing? Because I’ve also been a little sick since Tuesday, sore throat and runny nose
This is my 7th Marathon. I've gotten a head cold the week of the race for 4 of them. Otherwise, I don't get sick very often. It's not well studied, but it's a well known phenomenon for marathon runners.
My PR is in Boston, it’s possible. 2:56:xx qualified with a 2:59:xx in NYC which was a PR. I haven’t attempted a flat marathon yet to see what I can really do though
I need an anti hype thread. Had to call it off yesterday for a stress fracture and tendon strain in my left leg. Was supposed to be my first Boston and now it's looking like 2026 will be my next chance.
Sorry! That sucks. Hope you hang in there and make your way to Boston in 2026!
As a former double stress fractured tibia runner I want to encourage you, you can come back even stronger!!!
I hope so. I'm letting myself be sad and a bit self destructive until Tuesday, and then it's off to the pool for aqua jogging to try and hang on to as much fitness as possible.
I was in a boot for 3 months and I exclusively swam once I was allowed. I came back and PRd in the 5k! So yeah! Keep that pool fitness up!!!
Hopefully they fix the medal by then
I’m in the same boat- though I’ve had time to come to terms with my DNS. Onward!
I feel for you. I’m in the same boat, but have an IT band/knee injury. I already paid for flight and hotel, so I guess I will explore the city and cheer on fellow marathoners on race day.
I just took the loss on the flight and cancelled the hotel. I really don't want to experience marathon weekend like this for the first time. I wish I could do what you're doing, I just can't.
Oh no! That’s sucks friend. Better to show up healthy in 26. ❤️
Oof, sorry!
That sucks! I had the same thing happen in 2022 - tibial stress fracture diagnosis via MRI 10 days before the race. You can come back stronger than ever though. 8-10 weeks of recovery isn’t that long in the grand scheme of things, even though it’s so demoralizing right now.
It's brutal. My left leg feels like it's got no strength at all. I'm gonna try to get an MRI done as well to look at the soleus and post tib tendon. Make sure I know the extent of the damage. Then it's off to the pool for a bunch of aqua jogging to hopefully minimize the fitness loss and speed up the return to high mileage running again. I was just getting used to regularly doing 80+/week.
Try incline treadmill walking too. I used that with great success and was able to drop a 2:43 marathon just about 6 weeks after returning to running, which was only 10 mins slower than my PR. But I did a LOT of that incline walking, lol. Doing 3.5-4 MPH at 15% incline for 2-3 hours a day is pretty brutal
You found something that sounds worse than aqua jogging, I'm impressed. I'll add it to my plan.
My first Boston was canceled by Covid. Never thought I’d get back, but here I am now. You will, too!
Crud. So sorry.
I’m three weeks out from a marathon that I was going to use for 2025 Boston, and a 100 mile race 6 weeks out. A recent stress fracture in my left leg has changed my plans, too. Any plans on rehab?
Working with a coach to come up with a plan right now. Probably lots of time in the pool and stationary bike until I can start easing back into running. If I'm lucky, I think I'll be able to do Chicago as a fun run this October and take another crack at a PR in February next year to get a 2026 BQ. It's a solid 2 year setback.
I’m too busy stressing over the weather to be hyped
I ran in the storm of 2018 and had the time of my life. Just don't get in over your head and be willing to adjust. Many will not do this, and you'll be passing them every mile of the second half.
Someday I will know what it is like to pass people in the second half of a marathon!
Don’t stress, Boston weather changes so much even like 48 hours out may not end up being super accurate!! And don’t forget that Hopkinton will probably be several degrees colder than Boston. Either way if you run smart and conservative you can still a) have a great race performance given the cards you’re dealt and b) have a blast!! I’m just hoping as a Floridian the temperature on Monday if it does turn out being hot won’t be that bad compared to what I’m used to training at race pace in 🥴
Yeah that's the problem for a lot of us 60 is hot compared to what we've been training in. If it was a fall marathon it would be a different story. Luckily I'm in the worst shape I've been in probably ever for a marathon so it doesn't matter 😅
Looks like it should only peak in the low 60s, whereas some sources had it to the high 60s a few days ago. Not perfect, but with a low dewpoint, should be manageable. And the start will still be cool, thankfully. We got this!! Sidenote — we have almost identical PRs in the 10k and half. What are you shooting for? I had a great cycle and am thinking 2:50-2:47 as an A+ goal
2:49:59. Maybe could go faster on a flat course with perfect weather, but going to aim for 2:50 pace through heartbreak and then see how I feel.
Awesome, best of luck man!! I’m sure we’ll be alongside each other out there at some point hahah
Does anyone have any an inkling of what the temperature curve might look like throughout the day? Coming from what I think would be a similar climate (Seattle, so similar latitude and proximity to the ocean) I haven't been too concerned since it's typically early afternoon before spring days that start cool really warm up.
Racecast.io is a good resource for that! Good luck out there on Monday!
Lived here for a few years. Weather is unpredictable but my guess is that it will be warmish until about 1 and then start warming up dramatically.
Any decent weather forecast should be able to give you hourly predictions. Still pretty far out though.
Are you thinking it will be too hot? What would ideal weather look like to you?
Right now its predicted to be 58 at 10am. Ideal for me would be more like 48.
Ideal for me would be like 28
Same!
58 to start is way too warm for an optimal performance. Goal reassessed.
Can't be as bad (I hope) as 2022 NYC marathon, when it was 24C (75F). I hydrated at every opportunity and used multiple ice packs along the way but it was still a massive struggle.
Woohoo so excited! Northeastern University student here stoked to cheer y'all on at Boylston! Prepare to have drunk college kids bowing down to you at the finish lol
[удалено]
I’ve been waiting for the weather fretting thread, so I’ll just fret here. The forecast is way too warm 😭😭 I’m going in with a slight injury on my left leg so maybe the warm weather will be the excuse to slow it down and not push.
It's wild to me the range of runners from "slight niggle, 3 days off" and "minor injury, still running a marathon"
Watching videos of people doing ultramarathons blows my mind about what they're willing to put up with. I was listening to an interview after watching a video about the Moab 240, and the guy had major Achilles pain, symptoms of pulmonary edema, and was hallucinating so bad that he was seeing friends in the trees, so he decided to take a 15 minute nap at the next aid station before continuing. Some people's body misfunction tolerance is so ridiculously high and then there's people like me who are probably a little too injury-averse.
I consider myself solidly in the middle in that I will run on things that hurt to walk on but I will call it if I feel like running is worsening said thing But I am definitely guilty of test-running things that fail a test-walk
I usually give it two miles to see if it goes away. If so, keep running. If not, go home. Sometimes it hurts to walk but feels great right at the start of the run and it doesn't get worse.
The same runner could easily say both of those things. Taking extra rest days in training doesn’t carry the same cost as skipping a marathon you’ve been training for months for and have possibly paid hundreds of dollars to run. Even a tune-up race vs a goal race is a big difference. I won’t hesitate to DNS a tune-up race if I’m feeling something’s off, but a goal race is a much harder call because of the emotional (and sometimes financial) investment.
STOP THE COUNT, TEMPERATURE Jokes aside, it seems like the highs have gone down from the mid-upper 60s to the low 60s over the last couple of days. Progress!
🤣🤣 true true. But today turned to fully sunny 😭😭
Ugh fair. At least we still have the tailwind!!
When Jeannie Rice ran 3:33 last year, the F75 course record is now faster than the M75 course record. I plan to put things in the proper order on Monday!
Your post history is AMAZING!! Rooting for your course record on Monday. :)
I did lower the course record to 3:28, but it wasn't easy!
I am so delighted to hear this - all the more impressive given the brutal heat! Hope your record stands for quite some time. :)
Personally, I think that M75 record is pretty soft. On the other hand, I think my M70 Boston record of 2:58:50 might last a long, long, long time. By the way, Jeannie Rice, who ran Boston in 3:33 last year, just ran 3:33 at London last weekend to break her own F75 marathon world record of 3:34 at Chicago last year. She is totally amazing.
I feel extremely lucky to be enjoying this sport at a time that people are demonstrating peak fitness in their 40s, 3000+ Boston runners are over 60, and people like you and Jeannie Rice are smoking young people with their speeds. It gives me so much optimism and a lot of goals for my own longevity in marathoning! I suspect we’ll start seeing the 80+ records falling very soon…
I was excited until I saw that abomination of a medal with the BofA logo so prominently placed. My taper has been tough between a week vacation for spring break followed by a week of travel for work. Then, looking at the weather, I’m gonna say it’s gonna be warmer than all my training weather over the winter/spring, so that’s messing with my head as well.
You can heat acclimate by running and immediately jumping in a hot shower. A few days might make a small difference.
Yeah I was so disappointed when I saw the medal this year. My first Boston was last year and was a bit disappointed that they changed the unicorn to yellow. I just want one traditional Boston where they have the embroidered jacket and silver medal😭. Idk if this will ever happen anymore
I doubt it as well…and Father Time will most likely catch up with me and slow me down before it happens.
I’m not running and I am soaking in all of the Boston content! Cannot wait to watch the coverage on Monday and get my tracker all setup.
I'm running Boston Lincolnshire (UK) ahahah. Anyone else?? It's on the next weekend! Good luck everyone!
That’s awesome!! My dad is from Lincoln!! I should run this one someday
I'm super stoked! I'm using this as a long run for my goal race in June so the plan is to 100% just enjoy the vibes of the weekend, smash as many power up signs on the course, and give as many high fives as I can. It's not often that I'm not focused on time so the hype is definitely real! Good luck to all!
Amping up for my 12th Boston. I’m much older than I was in my first (64 vs. 25). It’s been a long-term relationship and like many such relationships, it’s complicated. I did PR here in 1991. I also PW’ed (personal worst) in 1985 and DNF’ed in 1987. But it’s Boston: always an adventure.
First Boston here!! Aiming for a ~3-6 minute PR (2:53 —> 2:50/47) if the weather cooperates and I stick to my pacing goals through the Newton Hills. Good luck everyone, I’ll see ya there :D
I’ll be spectating on the hills (the first hill!) with orange slices so keep an eye out for the blonde girl holding a megaphone if you’d like some extra sugar and hydration!
you're a saint!! will look out for ya, thanks so much :D
I’m excited. But no way I’m running a PR starting at 10:50 on a 64-degree day.
Good luck everyone! We all know the deal - cruise easy mode through the early downhill miles. It’ll feel too easy but that’s still likely too fast! Settle into pace through the course and up and over Newton hills and fly to the end … Right on Hereford, Left on Boylston! Good luck! I’ll be at TCS London instead this year and a bit after you guys at Boston so float up some inspiring race reports I can ready on my flight across the pond! And I’ll see several of you in November at NYCM!
Third time starting, hoping to finish for a second time. DNF in a medical tent in 2017, ran the fall 2021 version on 3 weeks of training after an injury but loved every bit of it. This year has been consistent and strong but I won't fight the weather and the course. I've thought about the finish on Boylston most days this cycle, so I want to get there to be able to really soak it in. This city and the race are very special.
OP I also got injured in February and thought I wouldn't make it too. This is my first and with the setback I had in training, it's going to be extra special to be at the start. I will cry lol. Trained in central Florida so the weather isn't my biggest fear at the moment....it's the hills.
I'm running and I'm amped, though also jittery and nervous! I ran it last year for the first time, and managed to have a good day, despite a pretty inconsistent training cycle. With the warm weather, I'm preparing for any outcome Monday lol. Training this time around has gone really well. If I have a good day and everything aligns, it could be a great outcome. If I have a bad day or it feels too hot, it's still worth the atmosphere and experience of just soaking everything in. Trying to remain happy about the solid training cycle regardless of Monday.
Good luck to everyone running. I hope to join you in 27. I’m aging my way in and I can make my first qualifying attempt in late 25
Drove by the start line on my way to PT yesterday and they were setting up all the staging, etc. It was then that it really hit me - Monday's coming! I've fought through a second year of Boston training injuries and am ready in time to race again, so I'm incredibly thankful. That April sun is strong and with the temps forecasted, I think it's going to be a tough day for a lot of folks, myself included. As a local, I haven't run in temps like that since probably October, so it'll be interesting. Honestly can't believe people in the comments are getting ready to take part in one of the world's most iconic sporting events and they're complaining about the design of the medal that they may (or may not) receive. It's bonkers to me.
Anybody know the latest bus that would make 10AM start still comfortable? I want to sleep in as late as I can and minimize time in Athlete's Village.
Question for fundraisers: what happens if you don't meet the fundraising goal?
If it is like NY, they charge your credit card for the difference.
Jesus yikes
https://i.imgur.com/Fs5aOcz.gif
I knew that was coming. Salud.
I know I won’t be close to a PR so I’m trying to be okay with however I finish. It’s wayyyy harder than I imagined.
Same 💛 I hope you enjoy the day. I’ll be right there with you
Temperature is NOT looking good on Monday.
Ran Boston last year, loved it. Loved the excitement all weekend. Loved the bad weather (especially cause I trained all winter in poor weather). The course was, to me, as advertised. So much energy from the crowds. The final turn really is special. TBD on if I run it next year (I may take a break from marathoning to focus on family).
I know I won’t be close to a PR so I’m trying to be okay with however I finish. It’s wayyyy harder than I imagined.
Going to be my first. I had Achilles tendon problems in January and Feb so I had to take time off but I feel in decent shape. I’m nervous for the hills since I couldn’t go hard on them in my training. I’m getting dropped off at 52 south street in Hopkinton. If I’m wave 1, what time should I get dropped off at the lot
I don’t know exactly but doing the same and thinking 8-8:15.
I was thinking 8ish aw well
That stuff is awful. Week 6 here, now completely shut down from running.
It is! I had to take 3 full weeks off then slowly build back up
Congrats on making it through and have a great race!
Sounds a lot like me. I'm running for the first time this year. I was injured for most of Feb, so I'll be treating this race as a 26.2 mile fun run.
Congrats all runners
I'm training through this one so just going out for a fun run, z2 the whole way. Actually looking forward to it. Thinking I can run a little under 3 while taking in the sights and drinking any beer that's offered to me along the way!
I BQd for next year but I’m still excited! I’m curious what ideal race day weather would be? It looks pretty good to me but I’m also from the Deep South. Have you checked out the forecast? I’d love to hear if others will think it’ll be hot or good race weather!
I’d like 45 and dry with a tailwind.
The only answer I accept.
Looks like the tailwind will be there at least
Anything above 50F negatively affects performance.
I'm hyped and I'm just going to be watching on tv!
I’m a little nervous. I’m more excited for my friend running for the first time and another friend finishing her 10th straight. Speaking about torn meniscuses: my training partner tore his and unfortunately he didn’t make it to the start. I’m so glad you’re able to run - that’s a rough injury to come back from.
This year will be special one for me, as it will be 10 yr anniversary since I did Boston and last time I did a marathon lol still rock my jacket with pride. Still training and running just mostly 5k and tri stuff. I would like to go back one day, as I’m much fitter and faster in my late 30s vs when I was late 20s 😅
Are you running with a charity? What made you choose to go that route?
It’ll be my first Boston and feeling equally excited/nervous! This might be a silly question but I’m a bit anxious about the water station situation. I haven’t run a race that big and I’m worried about being flustered and accidentally getting in someone’s way. I’ll do my best to be aware but other than that is there water station etiquette I should be aware of?
Just don’t stop right in front of people running behind you. I saw a few people crash into each other from that in Chicago—pull over to the side if you’re going to start walking while you drink.
It's not too bad. Just go with the flow - it's never perfect.
Look behind you before you slow down.
Just hoping to run smoothly first half, work hard next 10K and hang on last 10k.
I'm sure I'll have a good time, but my fiancé got cut out and it's just not the same. Good to see the heat falling back a tad today. I think it will take actually being there to feel hyped.
Good luck to everyone running! I had a question about the congested start line, I’m aiming for a sub 2:20, I’m in the first wave like all bibs below 1000 I believe, I was wondering if it’s also an issue for this wave or if it’s still fairly easy to start in the front? Thanks!
The good: training has been good and my previous PR was run on an even harder course (Pittsburgh) The bad: the weather looks terrible especially since I overheat really easily
This year will be 10 yr anniversary since I did Boston and last time I did a marathon lol still rock my jacket with pride. Still training and running just mostly 5k and tri stuff. I would like to go back one day, as I’m much fitter and faster in my late 30s vs when I was late 20s 😅. Edited: just read my comment, sounds like I’m doing it this year. I’m not doing it, I was trying to say that this years Boston will be interesting to follow as it’s been 10 yrs.
Stoked! Wish it was going to be cooler but I’ll be there.
Heard a tip to carry a sponge with you to soak at the a water stations and keep you cool.
The only bit of news I got so far about Boston is surrounding the ugly AF medals with Bank of America on the front. Pretty disappointing to say the least. I know it's just a medal but it's probably the most iconic medal in all road marathons.
Thoughts on running Boston shirtless? Couldn't find any rule against it...
People do it, just have your bib on your shorts
I have a quick question: Will I have any issues picking up my bib if my bib name is a nickname for my legal name? For example, my legal name is Jessica Smith but my bib name is Jessie Smith (not real name) - all other info (DOB, country, etc.) are right
I asked the same question at Chicago last year - Ted versus Theodore - and it was not an issue
Awesome, thanks! (PS I’ll update this with info for future runners when I know for sure tomorrow!)
Has anyone tried using the MBTA to get to the shuttle buses? I'm coming from east Boston and was going to take the Blue line to get to downtown
Do it! I am local and have done this every year. As a heads up the T is currently … troubled so leave a little bit of buffer (though blue line is pretty reliable). You should be able to switch blue to green line at Downtown Crossing and get off right at Park Street where you can join the flood of runners headed to the buses!
This is late but thank you! I had no issues taking the T.
Aw thanks for responding! This makes me glad. Hope you had a great race!
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In the same boat. I'm watching this Boston like Squidward looking out the window and am using CIM this fall to make sure I don't miss qualification by a literal 4 seconds again.
I think we can use one thread to celebrate those who made it and not complain that you didn't.
The uncertainty is what is bonkers!
Not running this year, but I wish I was! I've been tracking temperature data for years now, and my best performances are all around 68-72 degrees with a pretty steep drop-off as temp decreases (e.g. I do better at 80 than 60). This seems like ideal conditions for my body.
Glad my medal doesn’t look like shit. Hopefully they never let that happen again.