BOSTON — Ahead of the Boston Marathon, set for Patriots’ Day, city officials are reassuring international visitors and runners of their warm welcome to the event despite heightened concerns regarding travel and immigration policies. Mayor Michelle Wu emphasized the city’s commitment to inclusivity during a recent public safety briefing held near the marathon’s iconic finish line. “In Boston, we welcome everyone,” commented Wu, underlining the city’s desire to be a home to all who wish to visit.
The Boston Marathon, a historic event commemorating the battles of Lexington and Concord during the American Revolution, draws participants and spectators from around the globe. The race gained increased renown and a sense of solidarity following the tragic 2013 bombing, which highlighted Boston’s resilience. Allen Davis, assistant special agent with the FBI in Boston, noted that there are no specific threats to the upcoming race.
The marathon attracts more than 30,000 participants hailing from 128 countries. Despite concerns regarding international travel, Boston Athletic Association President Jack Fleming confirmed that this year’s race remains fully booked, with no indication that registrants are opting out due to travel hesitations. “We have a lot of demand this year, as we do every year,” Fleming stated.
While the U.S. has observed a downturn in tourism numbers, partly attributed to past policies and sentiments, some potential marathon attendees have expressed reservations. Canadians, in particular, have reacted negatively to remarks about their country’s status relative to the U.S. Paula Roberts-Banks, a seasoned marathon runner from Ontario, Canada, decided against participating this year, reflecting on her changed feelings toward traveling to the United States.
British runner Calli Hauger-Thackery, an Olympian in the upcoming games, voiced concerns about potential travel difficulties, despite not having faced issues previously. “It does scare me traveling a little bit, at the moment,” Hauger-Thackery said, though she maintains hope that her visa status will prevent complications.
Many of the nearly 32,000 competitors in the race must qualify through other marathons, viewing Boston as an achieved pinnacle in their running careers. However, approximately 10% traditionally do not start due to various factors, including injuries or external circumstances like the historical Icelandic volcano eruption that once impeded European travelers.
In last year’s marathon, a notable number of 2,838 out of over 29,000 entrants did not begin the race. Race officials acknowledge that reasons for these absences are diverse and not fully captured in their data. Fleming insists the association prioritizes providing a welcoming experience, emphasizing their dedication to creating a joyous event.
Mayor Wu encouraged visitors to look beyond current political climates and celebrate this significant tradition that crosses cultural and political boundaries. Australian Patrick Tiernan, another international competitor, is eager to participate and offered words of encouragement about the race’s legacy. “There are some unfortunate situations going on in the U.S. right now, but I don’t think that should have to taint what’s happening here,” Tiernan remarked, highlighting the excitement and unity brought by this prestigious event.