But race organizers ask that we please have none of that during Monday’s event.
The Boston Marathon is set to go Monday morning for the first time since April 2019, after Covid-19 prevented the 2020 race and postponed the 2021 edition until now.
Organizers made some policy changes or recommendations to prevent virus spread — and that includes discouraging an affectionate tradition.
Nevertheless, students are really looking forward to continuing the college’s tradition of cheering the runners, said Sydne Ashford, a Wellesley senior.
“The hype is really there. … I think there’s going to be a big turnout, even though we’re going to be wearing masks” and not kissing the competitors, Ashford told CNN on Sunday morning.
Ashford, the Munger Hall house president, says students’ anticipation is heightened by the postponements, as seniors are generally the only ones who’ve had the chance to participate previously.
She suspects the anti-kissing guidance will be generally well received because of the pandemic.
“Everyone knows that wouldn’t be Covid-safe, and wouldn’t leave here with the feeling that (kissing) was the right public health choice,” Ashford said.
Kissing isn’t the only thing discouraged. Organizers don’t want the general public to feed or water the racers, either.
Marathon requires runners to be vaccinated or test negative
Marathon organizers have laid out other special requests or requirements for runners this year.
Participants also must wear masks on buses transporting them from Boston to the starting area in Hopkinton, and everyone must wear them at the indoor Boston Marathon Expo.
Monday’s race has staggered start times, with wheelchair racers and professionals going first. The general field’s rolling start begins at 9 a.m.
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