Boston strong? Absolutely. Boston loud? Hell, yeah. On a day when the finish line at the Boston Marathon was reclaimed, normalcy made a triumphant return during the 26.2-mile journey from Hopkinton to Boston…
It was evident as we pulled into Hopkinton this would not be just another Patriot’s Day. Buses were everywhere. Cars were everywhere. It seemed like the eyes of the world were on the tiny town west of Boston…
The roar of the crowd as we began is something I’ll never forget. This wasn’t a road race — albeit a world-famous one — this was a community event. Spectators lined the roads in staggering numbers…
As we made our way into Boston, chants of “USA, USA, USA!” broke out on both sides of the street. The feeling of good will was palpable. Boston wouldn’t cower from an act of terrorism. Boston would show the world that terrorists don’t get the final say.
My finish time of 4:41:20 is nothing to brag about. But I’ll cherish the medal — and memories — forever.
Barry Scanlon
Chelmsford, Massachusetts
April 21, 2014
Age – 48
Bib # 31240
4:41:20
[Assistant Lowell Sun Sports Editor Barry Scanlon is a six time Boston finisher who writes the “Running the Valley” blog for LowellSun.com. His complete very personal article on the 2014 race can be found here: A Boston Marathon to Remember. Follow Barry Scanlon on Twitter @BarryScanlonSun.]