Press Release - Boston Marathon - 4/20/23

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement from Jack Fleming, President & CEO of Boston Athletic Association

"We know what the Boston Marathon means to our communities; it is very 
personal to so many of you. We know that everyone who participates loves to 
celebrate the excitement of the race, whether you are an athlete, 
volunteer, spectator or supporter.

However, this year, we know that we did not deliver on our promise to make 
it a great day for everyone.  We met with two groups last night, who the 
B.A.A. proudly supports in their running activities, their members and 
their mission - PIONEERS Run Crew and TrailblazHers Run Co. – two of 
Boston's premier clubs for BIPOC runners. They expressed to us their deep 
concerns that they were not given the chance to enjoy the day and celebrate 
their friends, families and all participants as they approached Heartbreak 
Hill – that is on us. It is our job, and we need to do better to create an 
environment that is welcoming and supportive of the BIPOC communities at 
the marathon. 

We appreciate and rely on the support and services of the eight cities and 
towns that make up the Boston Marathon course. We could not do it without 
the first responders and law enforcement agencies across 26.2 miles that is 
necessary at an event of this scale. We ask for everyone's support as we 
move forward to improve the event for generations to come." 
 
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