Runners Just Can’t Beat the Heat

In case you weren’t in or near Hopkinton on Monday,  was run on the hottest day so far this spring.

Temperatures reached well in to the 80s and some reports say the even eclipsed the 90-degree mark.

The unseasonably warm temperatures didn’t stop 22,000 people from starting the race in town on their way to Copley Square.

There were , 49 who opted to start the race.  But not everyone that started was able to make it all 26.2 miles.

“Pushing my muscles so they scream as they do in a typical race is expected and even satisfying when it is over but Monday was more about pushing my body's ability to cool itself - and that isn't why I run,” .

Ralston was one of four Hopkinton runners to drop out mid race.

“The decision drop out was a no-brainer when weighing that against the satisfaction of finishing.  Fortunately, my wonderful wife and children were in Wellesley expecting to cheer me on and were very supportive when I ducked under the rope and said ‘I'm done’,” he said.

The B.A.A. knew ahead of time that this was going to be a hot one. Several days before the race they  and hold on to their registration for next year.

“The BAA did an outstanding job making sure that plenty of water and Gatorade we're out on the course and coordinating the medical care; I was so impressed. The real savior for me, however, was the supply of ice, water sprays, and cheers that came from fans on the route. I knew the fans would motivate me but their spirit and thoughtfulness will be something I will never forget,”who finished the race in 5 hours 50 minutes said.

Another Hopkinton resident that finished the race recognized the heat as a unique factor for this year’s race.

“It was a more challenging race than 2010 due to the heat, but I am happy that I decided to run and was able to finish.  It really felt more like a test of survival than a race,”  said.

All of the runners that Patch has talked to since the race have said they are interested in running the historic race again, although none were willing to commit on competing in 2013.

Only time will tell what’s going to happen for next year, maybe it will be another snowy race! (Let’s be honest, no one actually wants a snowy race, but it has happened six times before.)