What to say about today's tragedy at the Boston Marathon?
First thought - it is awful and brutal.
One could say that it is statistically a low-grade terrorist attack, with "only" two deaths among the several injured; that it does not compare to the death toll of recent tragedies. But that would be severely understating the impact and importance of this occurrence that will affect large races and any big-city event in Boston and elsewhere for years to come.
Two deaths are two too many. I still do not know if they were runners or spectators, but they were there for the common purpose of supporting and participating in the world's oldest annual marathon; an event steeped in tradition and prestige. My heart goes out to those who lost life or limb and their families and friends.
My heart also goes out to the tens of thousands of runners who worked their butts off to run qualifying marathons or raised money to run with a charities; who scraped up enough dough to get to Boston and get hotel rooms for the night; who spent a chilly morning at the Athletes' Village; who proudly stood in a corral at 10 a.m., ready to run the race that so many runners strive for. Today was supposed to be the culmination of that hard work, the most joyous day in their running lives. Even if they finished an hour before or an hour after the explosions, their memories of this occasion will be marred forever.
I am sure that the effect of this will ripple throughout the nationwide running community, and through Boston, for a long while. The running community is pretty strong with encouragement and good vibes. More than ever, we need to keep that attitude. But right now, I am feeling nothing but sadness.
Be well, Boston. We are all here for you.
P.S. I am OK, Steve. Thankfully, I was not in Boston today. I appreciate your concern, bud.
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