The Boston Marathon Will Still Happen in 2020, But Virtually

COVID-19 can't stop the Boston Marathon. As the city's mayor explained in a thread of tweets, the annual event will still happen this year, but virtually.

He wrote, "The @BAA, with our input and support, has determined that the traditional, one-day running of the 124th Boston Marathon is not feasible this year, for public health reasons. While our goal and our hope is to make progress in containing the virus and recovering our economy, this kind of event would not be responsible or realistic on September 14 or any time this year."

He goes on to explain what they will do instead. "We’ll be joining and supporting the @BAA in an alternative approach to the Marathon that allows runners to participate remotely, and allows all of us to celebrate the meaning this race has for our spirit, for our charities, and for our local economy."

On the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.)website, they explain how the event will take place. Participants will be able to run at any time between September 7 and 14. They add, "Participants in the virtual 2020 Boston Marathon will be required to complete the 26.2-mile distance within a six-hour time period and provide proof of timing to the B.A.A. All athletes who complete the virtual race will receive an official Boston Marathon program, participant t-shirt, medal, and runner’s bib."

As reported, the 2020 Boston Marathon, was initially scheduled for April 20. It was later postponed to September 14 due to coronavirus.