Boston Memorial Run Planned Locally

Plans are afoot for a special, non-competitive run to show support for the runners in the recent Boston Marathon, where bombs killed three and injured scores of people.

The Tampa Bay for Boston Memorial Run is a 2.62 mile run scheduled for May 8th, along St. Petersburg's stunning downtown waterfront. The race will start at Spa Beach Park at The Pier.

But it is more than just a run. People are encouraged to turn out and show their support, even if they don't register for for the run.

The non-competitive run starts at 8:30 p.m. But first there will be a candlelight vigil (with LED lights), speakers and singing at 7:30 p.m. It should be an emotional event.

Organizers are trying to keep costs down, and are asking folks to spread the message by word of mouth, so that money from registration fees ($26.20) can go directly to help runners injured in the attack. Click here to register.

Several area athletes who were in the Boston Marathon have been invited to share their experiences.

"We hope to bring together the entire Tampa Bay running community in solidarity with runners worldwide, but especially those in Boston," said Chris Lauber, Race Director, in an email to Tampa Bay runners.

Lynn Gray, Founder/President of the newly formed Tampa Bay Race Director Committee, and Susan Harmeling, Executive Director of the Gasparilla Distance Classic have agreed to speak. 

Elizabeth Holloway will be singing "Amazing Grace" and the National Anthem during what is sure to be an emotional event.

Walkers are welcome, as well as members of the public who want to watch and show their support.

The goal is to send $20 or more per registered athlete to the One Fund Boston.

Register NOW at Active.com for our Boston Memorial Run.

Here is the tentative schedule:

4:00 pm - 7:30 pm: registration, athlete check-in
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm: Candlelight Vigil with announcements, speakers and singers
8:30 pm: Start of Memorial Run
9:00 pm: First finishers arrive at finish line
9:00 pm: Post-run food and beverage at Jonny Reno's
9:30 pm: Last finishers arrive at finish line

More information

Address: Spa Beach Park at the Pier,
800 Second Avenue N.E. St. Petersburg, FL

Fees: $26.20

Registration Closing Date: Tuesday, May 7, 2013

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