B.A.A. Announces Meb Keflezighi as 2019 Boston Marathon Grand Marshal

B.A.A. Announces Meb Keflezighi as 2019 Boston Marathon Grand Marshal

Boston Marathon Schedule of Events Released

BOSTON (1-April) – Today, the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) announced the Grand Marshal for the 123rd Boston Marathon, to be run on Monday, April 15, 2019. Meb Keflezighi, winner of the 2014 Boston Marathon, will serve as Grand Marshal on Patriots’ Day, leading the way for 30,000 participants on their journey from Hopkinton to Boston. 

The Boston Marathon is the oldest consecutively run marathon in the world and is annually held on Patriots’ Day in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. For the 34th year, John Hancock is the principal sponsor of the Boston Marathon.

Five years ago, Keflezighi broke the finish tape in memorable fashion with a time of 2:08:37, becoming the first American man since 1983 to win the open division of the Boston Marathon. His victory was especially significant considering it came one year after the tragic acts of April 15, 2013. Keflezighi sported the names of those lost on his bib number as he ran in front towards Boylston Street. 

A four-time Olympian, Keflezighi is the only athlete in history to have won both the Boston and New York City Marathons and an Olympic Marathon medal. As Grand Marshal, he will once again lead the field, this time riding in an INFINITI QX50, the official vehicle of the Boston Marathon, from Hopkinton to Boston.

Throughout race week, Keflezighi will also serve as a John Hancock Elite Athlete Ambassador, cheering on participants and making many appearances including at the Boston Marathon Expo, Runner Seminar Series, and at Boston Marathon Fan Fest on Copley Square Park. Keflezighi recently published a book titled 26 Marathons.

“We are proud to welcome back Meb on the five year anniversary of his triumphant victory,” said Tom Grilk, Chief Executive Officer of the B.A.A. “Running to the chants of ‘USA! USA!’, Meb’s victory five years ago was a symbolic moment that transcended sports. Meb helped our entire community celebrate the resilient and determined spirit of Boston, and we look forward to having him back in Boston as Grand Marshal of this year’s race.” 

The B.A.A. also today released a detailed schedule of events celebrating Boston Marathon week. Members of the media are encouraged to attend and cover all events.