Dear Boston Marathon Participants and Friends,

On behalf of the Boston Athletic Association, principal sponsor John Hancock, and all of our supporters, welcome to the City of Boston and the 127th running of the Boston Marathon.

The entire B.A.A. family takes great pride in organizing the most historic annual footrace in the world, bringing nearly 30,000 participants from around the globe together in pursuit of athletic excellence. From first-time qualifiers making their long-awaited trip from Hopkinton to Boston, to established veterans who've covered the route before, we wish you an unforgettable race week. May the wind be at your back as you race towards personal goals and PR's.

As we mark ten years since the tragic events of April 15, 2013, we know the entire Boston and running communities will come together in remembrance and reflflection. This year's theme of oneBOSTON is representative of the past decade, when communities rallied, rose above challenges, and celebrated the positive spirit of unity. Though the Boston Marathon runs through eight cities and towns, its essence resonates far beyond the 26.2-mile stretch of pavement leading to Boston. The world will be watching and cheering enthusiastically on April 17.

At the front of the field will be the strongest contingent of professional athletes in marathon history, led by two-time Olympic gold medalist and world record holder Eliud Kipchoge. Eliud will be making his Boston debut, as will reigning world marathon champion Gotytom Gebreslase of Ethiopia. The pair will have fast company including defending champion Evans Chebet, two-time winner Edna Kiplagat, 2021 victor Benson Kipruto, and American champion Des Linden. In the wheelchair division, both Manuela Schär and Daniel Romanchuk return with hopes of earning their fifth and third Boston Marathon titles, respectively.

Each of the above athletes will be part of the John Hancock Professional Athlete Team, featuring world-class athletes in our Open, Wheelchair, and Para Athletics Divisions. For the 38th and final year, we extend a very special thank-you to John Hancock, our principal sponsor and dedicated partner since 1986. From supporting countless professionals to raising millions of dollars for charitable causes, John Hancock has helped shape the Boston Marathon in tremendous ways over the last three decades.

We also thank the many state, local, and federal officials who coordinate public safety efforts from start to finish, as well as the nearly 10,000 volunteers who will dedicate their time and energy to support participants in achieving their goals.

Thank you for joining us for the 127th running of the Boston Marathon, and we wish you a memorable race experience. We can’t wait to see you at the finish line!

Sincerely,

Michael P. O'Leary, M.D. Chairman of the Board

Jack Fleming President & Chief Executive Officer