We are only two months away from one of HOTSHOT’s favorite annual events — the Boston Marathon. For the 121st time, runners will race through the historic city on a course now firmly embedded in marathon lore through the agony of Heartbreak Hill, the tricky downhill start and the rowdy crowds. In years past, we’ve given you interesting facts about the race, runners’ stories, and even introduced you to Heartbreak Hill Running Co. co-owner and Boston native, Dan Fitzgerald and his trusty mascot, Heartbreak Bill. This year, we want to take you to the starting line. Here are four athletes we’ll be watching on April 17th:
- Meb Keflezighi – We don’t really need to introduce Meb to Boston Marathon fans. But, for the rest of you, he is the first American man to win Boston in 31 years, finishing with a time of 2:08:37 in 2014—his personal best. The champion will return just a few weeks shy of his 42nd birthday. We’re hoping he gets his gift a little early this year!
- Galen Rupp – A newcomer to the Boston Marathon, Galen is far from new to the world of running. He’s got an impressive list of accomplishments including an Olympic silver medal in the 10,000m and an American record for the 2 mile set at the 2012 USATF Classic. At 30 years old, he’s got a lot of experience. We hope he can set the tone for great things to come this April in Boston.
- Edna Kiplagat – Edna is an established superstar in marathon. She has won the London, Los Angeles, and New York City marathons. She has also won the IAAF World Championship marathon. Twice. There is one “heartbreaking” jewel missing from her marathon crown. Maybe 2017 will be her Boston year!
- The Runners – We know, it seems like a copout. But, you’ll see. In the weeks leading up to and following the race, we’ll hear stories of sacrifice and determination, obstacles overcome and hopes realized. The amazing thing about the marathon isn’t its course or its history. The amazing thing is the people who will line up that Monday morning—some with a chance at a record, and others just to realize a dream and make a memory. We can’t wait to discover just who we’ll be talking about next.
If you’ll be running in the marathon, watching those who do, or just happen to be in Boston on race weekend, we’d love to see you at the EXPO! HOTSHOT will be there to let you know how our powerful little shot can help you realize your own dreams without letting cramps stand in the way. We’re also available for you all the time over on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Can’t make it to the EXPO? Pick up HOTSHOT for yourself here! Good luck to all the 2017 Boston Marathon runners!
MORE ON THE HOTSHOT BLOG
Dale Sandley, 7-time Boston Marathoner: "I qualified for the Boston Marathon with 12 minutes to spare."
Run Your Best 26.2: Marathon Training tips from Track and Field Coach Gary Brimmer
Shalane Flanagan: The Olympian's Go-To Marathon Training Tips