Runners set to participate in Sunday’s Goodlife marathon plan to pay tribute to the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing attack.
Approximately 12,000 people are expected to run the route, which will start at Mel Lastman Square and finish at Ontario Place.
Runners picking up their bibs for the race at the Direct Energy Centre Friday said they’re more determined to run following the attack that killed three and injured hundreds.
Multiple marathon runner Geoff Mutton, who travelled from Australia for the Toronto marathon, said though the bombings will be on his mind, the tragedy is not preventing him from participating.
“I don’t know if it’s frightening or scary, but it’s something you think about,” said Mutton, who has run the Boston race four times.
“Actually, I wanted to do it more, just to support those people who didn’t get to finish (the Boston race),” said one woman.
Runners will be given special bibs honouring the Boston Marathon bombing victims, and a moment of silence will be observed prior to each race event.
Race director Jay Glassman said organizers have seen a spike in last-minute registrations.
“There’s been a huge surge in interest in the event almost in defiance to what happened in Boston,” Glassman told CTV News Channel Friday.
Glassman said as in previous years, there will be a police presence at the event. Organizers are asking runners and spectators to be vigilant, and hold onto their bags and purses. Volunteers have been asked to leave their backpacks at home.
The race begins at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday. Spectators are urged to take public transit, as a number of city roads will be closed for the event.
With files from CTV’s Janice Golding
