The Boston Marathon means something. It has a tradition and human connection that means today is a tragedy and one of the saddest days at an athletic event.
Towards the end of the day yesterday in USA time, after some 20,000 people had finished, there were bomb explosions near the finishing area of the Boston Marathon. Right near the heart of Boston itself.
It appears that two people, including a child, were killed in the blasts. Varying reports place the number of injured at 67 and possibly up to 120 have been treated for wounds related to the blast.
The Internet moves quickly but I would urge people to remember, not to blame. Fear and uncertainty breed speculation and often fuel old prejudices.
An athletic pursuit, a cultural touchstone, has been turned into a field of tears and horror. Don’t speculate; slow down and preserve humanity.
When you go about your day today, checking scores and writing in the comment sections of your favourite sports sections, remember those who have felt pain and loss while participating in and viewing something close to their heart.
Held on Patriot Day, the Boston marathon is a cultural event dear to the heart of the New England corner of the USA. It has been held annually since 1897. Today, someone chose to blow a hole in the fabric of the race.
For Australians wondering what this day means; this event isn’t a City to Surf or a fun run. It’s an age-old tradition more akin to the Boxing Day test.
Like Boxing Day, the Boston Marathon isn’t just for fans of sport. The sport isn’t close to the whole point of the day.
This traditional competition is sport at its finest – a vehicle for bringing communities together. A chance to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate life.
Already there have been reports of runners finishing the race and continuing past the finish line to donate blood at a local hospital to support injured victims. An online list has been built for those whose plans are now disjointed and need a place to stay.
An explosion has been timed to coincide with a sporting event precisely because of its cultural significance. While people are surely mourning, the sense of community built by the event itself is already a dominant part in putting together the lives of those impacted.
Today, think of those people who have lost a loved one, those who are injured and others who may be frantically looking for family members.
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