The 2025 Boston Marathon is set to take place on Monday, April 21, 2025, and with 30,000 participants lining up to tackle the iconic 26.2-mile course, excitement is palpable. This year’s race is particularly special as it marks the 250th anniversary of Patriots' Day and celebrates 50 years since the first wheelchair racer was officially recognized in the event’s storied history.
Among the runners are some notable celebrities and elite athletes, each bringing their own stories and aspirations to the race. Boston Bruins legend Zdeno Chara will be participating for the third consecutive year, raising funds for the Thomas E. Smith Foundation and the Hoyt Foundation, which supports those living with paralysis. Chara, towering over the course, aims to continue his philanthropic efforts while enjoying the camaraderie of the marathon.
Reality TV star Matt James, known for his role on "The Bachelor," will also be back, running his first Boston Marathon since 2022. Not only will he race, but he will serve as a field correspondent for ESPN and WCVB-TV, providing a unique perspective on the day’s events.
Ambrose “Amby” Burfoot, who won the Boston Marathon in 1968, will don bib number 1968 in honor of his milestone victory 56 years ago. At 77, Burfoot remains an inspiration, showcasing the enduring spirit of marathon running.
Race director Dave McGillivray is set to run his 53rd Boston Marathon. McGillivray has a personal best time of 2:29:58 but has often been the last to finish due to his responsibilities overseeing the race. This year, he plans to run after seeing off the first two waves of competitors, a testament to his commitment to the event.
In a touching story, former Olympic figure skater Alice Cook will participate in her third Boston Marathon, and her second since being diagnosed with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in December 2023. Cook aims to raise awareness and funds for Compassionate Care ALS, hoping to inspire others facing similar challenges. She poignantly stated, "For me, I am trying to find peace by letting go. Rather than hunt for answers, I take solace in the present moment."
Professional golfer Scott Stallings, who turned 40 in March, is also making his marathon debut while raising money for Golf Fights Cancer. Stallings, who has transitioned to running after a shoulder injury, expressed his excitement about participating in a race that has personal ties to his roots in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Among the elite athletes, Kenyan Hellen Obiri will attempt to make history by becoming the first woman to three-peat in the Boston Marathon in the 21st century. Obiri, a two-time world 5,000m champion, has made a successful transition to the marathon, with a personal best of 2:21:38 set during her 2023 Boston victory. She has been a dominant force in the distance running scene, and expectations are high for her performance.
Challenging Obiri will be Ethiopian Amane Beriso, who has a personal best of 2:14:58 from the 2022 Valencia Marathon. Beriso has previously finished as the runner-up to Obiri in Boston and is eager to claim victory this time. Another contender is Yalemzerf Yehualaw, who boasts a personal best of 2:16:52 from the 2024 Amsterdam Marathon, and has shown remarkable potential in her early marathon career.
Irine Cheptai, also from Kenya, has made a strong impression since moving up to the marathon distance, posting a personal best of 2:17:51 in Chicago last year. Meanwhile, Sharon Lokedi, who won the NYC Marathon in 2022, will be looking to improve on her second-place finish in Boston last year.
American runners will also be looking to make their mark. Emma Bates, who finished fifth in Boston in 2023, is returning with renewed vigor, having recently achieved a personal best in the half marathon. Keira D’Amato, who has a personal best of 2:19:12, is another notable competitor, although she has faced challenges in her recent races.
The weather for Marathon Monday is expected to start cool, with temperatures in the 30s to lower 40s, rising to the 50s by afternoon. While the forecast indicates a chance of showers later in the day, the early part of the race should enjoy favorable conditions, allowing runners to showcase their training and determination.
As the 129th Boston Marathon approaches, the blend of elite competition, inspiring stories, and the spirit of community promises to create an unforgettable day. Whether it’s the elite runners vying for podium finishes or the everyday participants sharing their personal journeys, the 2025 Boston Marathon is set to be a celebration of resilience, hope, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, the Boston Marathon continues to be a beacon for runners worldwide. As the sun rises on April 21, thousands will take their marks, ready to add their chapters to this legendary event.
