Boston Marathon

BOSTON (WBZ) ― As part of wbztv.com's coverage leading up to the Boston Marathon, we are pleased to welcome student blogger Elleree Erdos. Elleree is a student at Buckingham Browne and Nichols School in Cambridge. For her senior project she is volunteering at the John Hancock Elite Athlete Village and blogging about her experience.


Tuesday, April 22, 2008
1:13 PM

Post-race celebration
Last night marked the culmination of weeks of preparation on both the athletes' and the hosts' part. A post-race celebration at King's restaurant and bowling alley gave everyone a chance to wind down and have one last opportunity to see each other before the athletes depart.

The runners, despite how tired I would expect them to have been, all seemed to let loose and have a great time. I bowled with third-place finisher Khalid El Boumlili, chatted with Robert Cheruiyot, and played pool with runner-up Abderrahime Bouramdane. Women's champion Dire Tune was bowling in the next lane over from us, and I noticed that not only was she on her feet and energetic, but she was wearing high heels, no less!

Hosts and athletes danced in celebration of a successful day and a fulfilling week of hard work and energy directed toward the race. I had a chance to officially meet the marathoners from Greece whom I ran with at Saturday's Flame of the Marathon Run. After a week of encountering all the volunteers and athletes involved in the race as they were engrossed in their individual tasks, I was glad I had the chance to see everyone all together in a relaxing environment!

Farewell
I ate breakfast this morning with Robert Cheruiyot—he told me he was feeling fine and preparing to leave for home. I'm sad to see the athletes go their separate ways this week; I feel I've just gotten to know them all well, and now that the race is over, they seem even more like good friends, not just talented celebrities!

The John Hancock Elite Athlete Village has brought everyone together in a welcoming atmosphere with good food and excellent company; I think the most valuable part of my experience has been actually staying in the Village and living with the athletes. Casually greeting and chatting with athletes in the hallways as I walk to breakfast or to a shift in the boiler room has made the Village a comforting place to call a second home for these past two weeks.

Pack-up begins today…we're disconnecting the boiler room computers, organizing office inventory, and filling boxes full of the binders, papers, and supplies that have kept the Village running for the past two weeks. It's a meticulous process, but everything has to be correctly labeled in order to set it all up again next year! I'm anxious for the 113th Boston Marathon already!

Few high school seniors can say they've had the opportunity to interview world-class athletes at a press conference, carry an eternal flame from the city where the marathon originated, or eat dinner with now four-time Boston Marathon winner Robert Cheruiyot! As part of my Senior Project at BB&N, my intenship with TRACS, Inc. has allowed me to take part in events I will remember for the rest of my life. This has been an eye-opening and outstanding experience, and I'm fortunate to have had the chance to share it with you.


Mile-By-Mile Race Coverage

WOMEN, Mile 4
The lead pack ran through mile 4 in a time of 22:16, with a mile split of 5:41. The ten frontrunners are 1:50 ahead of the second pack.

WHEELCHAIR, Mile 10
Ernst van Dyk still leads the wheelchair race with a 10-mile split of 30:54.

MEN, Start
The gun has fired for the men's race!

WOMEN, Mile 4
Bruna Genovese has taken over the lead, and Jelena Prokopcuka is dropping back in the lead pack. We'll have to watch and see what the next few miles bring for these leaders.

MEN, Mile 1
Leading the men at mile 1 is 43-year-old Emilio Martinez of Santiago, Dominican Republic. The lead pack is thick, though, coming through the first mile at 5:16. Only a nine-second difference between the men and women's first mile!

Lance Armstrong, running Boston for the first time, went through his first mile in 6:20.

WOMEN, Mile 5
At the fifth mile, Askale Tafa Magarsa leads the pack, followed by Magdaline Chemjor and Rita Jeptoo.

WOMEN, Mile 6
At mile 6, Askale Tafa Magarsa had a time of 33:40 with a split of 5:31.

MEN, Mile 2
Robert Cheruiyot came through mile 2 leading the pack with a split of 5:01 and a 2-mile time of 10:17, along with Dejene Yirdaw, Lawrence Saina, Timothy Cherigat, and Shadrack Kiplagat. Robert grabbed two cups of water at the first water station, not wasting any time to start rehydrating.

MEN, Mile 4
The male leaders just ran through mile 4 in a time of 19:50 with a mile split of 4:41. Lance Armstrong came through in about 26:00.

WOMEN, Mile 8
Nuta Olaru is leading the women's pack, coming through mile 8 in 45:03. Close behind are Magdaline Chemjor of Kenya and Jelena Prokopcuka.

MEN, Mile 6
Men came through mile 7 in a time of 29:16 and a split of 4:37. Lawrence Saina of Kenya in the lead pushing the pace with Robert Cheruiyot.

WHEELCHAIR, Mile 20
The wheelchair race is approaching mile 20, with Ernst van Dyk still in first.

WOMEN, Mile 10
Askale Tafa Magarsa leads the women at the tenth mile.

MEN, Mile 7
Robert Cheruiyot, Lawrence Saina, and James Macharia are pushing the pace at mile 7, with a mile split of 4:40. We'll see what the next few miles bring for the lead pack…

WOMEN, Mile 12
Jelena Prokopcuka has reclaimed the lead after sitting back in the pack for several miles. Looks like she has a strategy taking shape. The women are coming through mile 12 in a time of 1:08:15, with a mile split of 5:37.

MEN, Mile 10
Abderrahime Bouramdane is right up front with Robert Cheruiyot—supposedly he was told by his coach to follow Robert closely. They came through mile 10 in 48:22 with a 4:52 mile split. This 10-mile time is 15 seconds slower than it was in 2006 when the course record was set.

WHEELCHAIR, Finish
Ernst van Dyk just won his seventh Boston Marathon in a time of 1:26:49! Krige Schabort was second and Masazumi Soejima finished in third place.

WOMEN, Half Marathon
The women just came through the halfway point in a time of 1:14:45, with Magdaline Chemjor in the lead.

WOMEN, Mile 14
Jelena Prokopcuka is back in the lead with a time of 1:19:59 at the 14-mile mark.

MEN
Timothy Cherigat and James Koskei are 20 meters behind the pack, with Dejene Yirdaw and Yirefu Birhanu 30 seconds behind. The quick pace seems to be trimming down the lead pack…

WOMEN, Mile 15
Jelena Prokopcuka still in the lead with a mile split of 5:45.

MEN, Mile 13
Robert Cheruiyot leading a group of six frontrunners with a 4:42 split. The projected finish time is a blazing 2:07:40!

WOMEN, Mile 16
Six women have moved ahead in the race—Prokopcuka, Jeptoo, Tune, Magarsa, Biktimirova, and Olaru comprise the lead pack at mile 16.

WOMEN, Mile 17
Alevtina Biktimirova of Russia has taken the lead, with Rita Jeptoo, Dire Tuna, and Askale Tafa Magarsa right behind her. The women's pack has certainly thinned out!

MEN, Mile 15
The male leaders are speeding along, still holding strong at 2:07 pace! Robert Cheruiyot is in the lead, with Abderrahime Bouramdane just a step behind.

WHEELCHAIR (Women), Finish
Wakado Tsuchida has won the women's wheelchair race in a time of 1:48:32.

WOMEN, Mile 18
Alevtina Biktimirova still leading Rita Jeptoo, Dire Tune, and Askale Magarsa. Jelene Prokopcuka is 18 seconds behind the leaders, and defending champion Lidiya Grigoryeva is a minute and 24 seconds behind.

WOMEN
The lead pack is now down to three women—Biktimirova, Jeptoo, and Tune.

WOMEN, Mile 19
Rita Jeptoo seems to be dropping off from the frontrunners. Biktimirova came through mile 19 with a mile split of 5:13.

MEN, Mile 18
The men are picking up the pace on the hills of Newton. Robert Cheruiyot is making his move, pulling away from Abderrahime Bouramdane of Morocco and coming through mile 18 in a time of 1:26:33, nine seconds slower than when the course record was set in 2006.

MEN
Robert Cheruiyot is killing those hills with an 10-second lead over Bouramdane!

WOMEN, Mile 20
Leaders Biktimirova and Tune are shoulder-to-shoulder, coming through mile 20 in 1:52:35 with a mile split of 5:24.

MEN, Mile 19
Robert Cheruiyot came through mile 19 with a mile split of 4:36! In second is Bouramdane, pushing his pace and also looking strong.

WOMEN, Mile 21
Biktimirova and Tune came through mile 21 in a time of 1:58:10 with a mile split of 5:34. The two are still neck-in-neck.

WOMEN, Mile 22
Leaders came through in a time of 2:03:28 and a mile split of 5:18. Tune has taken the lead over Biktimirova, but she's only a step ahead. I'm anxious to see what the last few miles bring…

MEN, Mile 21
Robert Cheruiyot passed mile 21 with a mile split of 5:15—the pace is slower than the course record by just 3 seconds. Robert leads Abderrahime by 25 seconds…the race isn't over yet...

WOMEN, Mile 23
The women just ran their fastest mile in the race, with a 5:04 split. Tune and Biktimirova are side-by-side. It looks like the race isn't breaking yet.

WOMEN, Mile 24
The lead pair comes through in 2:13:41 with their last mile at 5:08.

MEN, Mile 23
With a 5:00 split, Robert Cheruiyot is no longer on course record pace. He's 38 seconds ahead of the second-place runner, Abderrahime Bouramdane.

WOMEN, Mile 25
With 1.2 miles left, the women came through at 2:19:06, with a 5:24 mile split. Biktimirova and Tune are fighting for the lead as they run through Kenmore Square. The intensity of the race is building as they near the finish…neither one seems to be pulling ahead just yet.

MEN, Mile 24
Robert came through in 1:56:18 with a mile split of 5:02. There's now a 24-second gap between the first and second runners. Bib #13, James Macharia, is walking at mile 22 and pointing to his hamstring.

WOMEN, Finish
Dire Tune is creating a gap as she sprints to the finish! But wait—Biktimirova is coming back, and has made her own gap. Back and forth—Tune's now right next to her. WhAT fight…Tune is pulling away now and has formed a bigger gap, and it doesn't look like Biktimirova is going to make a move. Dire Tune has won the race in a high-intensity fight for the finish with a time of 2:25:25.

Biktimirova came in second in 2:25:27, and Rita Jeptoo has claimed third in 2:26:54.

MEN, Mile 25
Robert Cheruiyot came through mile 25 in 2:01:28 with a 5:10 mile split. There's now a 55-second gap between Robert and Abderrahime. This race is his! He is 39 seconds slower than his course record set in 2006—looks like a record is out of reach.

James Macharia has dropped out of the race.

MEN, Finish
Robert Cheruiyot has won the men's race in a time of 2:07:46! That's 32 seconds away from the course record he set in 2006.

Abderrahime Bouramdane came next in 2:09:04, followed by Khalid El Boumlili and Gashaw Asfaw.

WOMEN
Jelena Prokopcuka has taken fourth, Askale Tafa Magarsa is fifth, and Bruna Genovese has claimed sixth place.


I've watched bits and pieces of the race in previous years, but this was intense! I've been watching every minute of the marathon. It's astonishing how quickly the time passes when you're truly engrossed in the race.

I feel like I have a distinct connection to each of the athletes, now, having dined, relaxed, and chatted with so many of them. I was proud to see Robert cross the finish—all I can think of is his beaming face as he told me jokes the other day. He's had the right attitude all week long, and he certainly deserves this moment of glory.

And Abderrahime Bouramdane (my friend from the Friday night dinner) had an outstanding race! His determination and perseverant spirit shone through as he ran an edgy race, especially at the beginning, and pulled off a second-place finish.


Monday, April 21, 2008 (Race Day)
8:35 AM

The count down has begun! The women's race is set to start at 9:35, with the gun going off for the wheelchair race ten minutes before, at 9:25. The men head out at 10:00. Right now I'm sitting in the studio with the team organized to answer the calls from spotters.

The studio is set up with a row of television screens—one is set to broadcast WBZ-TV's coverage of the marathon, and the others show live footage of the races and the finish line. Emotions run high (no pun intended…) in the room right now, and we're all eagerly anticipating the start of the race.

Right now we're conducting a dry run of the system with the spotters' team of around 100 high school students stationed along the course. The information they relay to us is the same news that announcers broadcast on live television, so everything has to run like clockwork and the updates must be accurate. The whole process takes place like rapid fire, with the highlights being televised just seconds after they reach the studio. The studio team is working almost as fast as the athletes can run!


Monday, April 21, 2008 (Race Day)
8:00 AM

The finale of the week is here! It's race day, and all is running smoothly. This morning, John Hancock Elite Athlete Village hosts lined the lobby of the Village as the athletes left the building in a processional. Seeing the athletes I've come to know so well walk down the stairs in the lobby with John Hancock towels wrapped majestically around their shoulders was powerful; the runners have been here for almost a week, sharing their experiences and lives with me, and today is the culmination of all their training and preparation. I'm nervous myself just anticipating their race!

The athletes boarded buses, which brought them to the start in Hopkinton. The runners all seemed so at ease, smiling and waving as we said goodbye. It's a good thing they appeared calm, because I think I have enough nervous excitement for all of them…

We just arrived at the WBZ studio, where the Race Spotwatch Spotters' Network team will be answering phone calls from high school "spotters" stationed at every mile along the course. The spotters relay stats, times, and highlights from the race to be broadcast live on television.


Sunday, April 20, 2008
8pm

Arts and Crafts

Elite athlete arts and crafts? Yes—the athletes sat down for an hour this weekend to reminisce and recreate childhood, decorating their water bottles with colored tape.

Each elite athlete received 8 water bottles to decorate in order to identify their own bottles at the water stops along the race route. The activity brought the competitors together around tables of multi-colored-tape dispensers and markers with laughter and conversation.

Water bottles emerged bearing everything from national flags to arbitrary patterns. The occasion certainly added levity to the serious mood surrounding race day. To hear an elite athlete who takes himself and his sport so seriously say, "Can you pass the purple marker?" was somehow uplifting and entertaining.

The gifted athletes you see breaking the tape at the finish line and adorning banners across the city are the same people who will sit down and proudly showcase their arts and crafts skills.



Sunday, April 20, 2008
11 AM

Just returned from the bleachers at the finish line of the women's Olympic Trials for the marathon. I saw the runners go by on Mass Ave. when I was out running earlier this morning, and I went back out to see them finish.

It's one thing to watch these events on television, but actually seeing the athletes speed by in person is a completely different experience. From the music echoing among the buildings, to the American flags lining the street, to the thick crowds bursting with excitement, the scene creates such an adrenaline rush—and not just for the runners.

Deena Kastor came from a two-minute deficit behind first-place runner Magdalena Lewy Boulet earlier in the race, to win by a margin of 44 seconds. Seeing the top three runners (Deena Kastor, Magdalena Lewy Boulet, and Blake Russell) draped in the American flag was, to me, the epitome of patriotism.


Saturday, April 19, 2008
10:35 PM

Today's events were by far the most emotional moments of the week thus far. I began the day by helping light the torch of the Flame of the Marathon from Marathon, Greece, which was to be carried to the finish line on Boylston Street to kick off a youth race.

The flame was dedicated in November 2007 at the sacred location of the Battle of Marathon and the 300 Warriors' tomb, and comes to Boston as the first city in a global tour in honor of the sport of the marathon. The Greek guests, Mayor of Marathon Spyros Zagaris and Dimitris Kyriakides, son of 1946 marathon winner Stylianos Kyriakides, wanted to bring the flame to Boston first because the Boston Marathon is the world's oldest marathon.

I held the torch as it was lit, and was told to begin carrying it towards the event. I asked to whom I should hand the flame, but everyone told me to just keep walking—I obeyed orders, and continued on toward Boylston Street, stopping periodically to see if I should hand it over to the Greek guests. Officials kept telling me to keep walking, and the next thing I knew, I was in the middle of Boylston Street surrounded by crowds and cameras, with the official Olympic theme song playing overhead as an announcer welcomed the Greek guests. Talk about being in the right place at the right time! It was an honor to be holding the flame at such a powerful event—I saw tears in the eyes of Dimitris and the mayor, and these tears of joy were contagious…

The Flame of the Marathon seems like so much more than just an eternal flame—I'm constantly told that it represents "peace, comradeship, collaboration and cultural exchange," which may sound cliché, but it's really true. Although the direct relationship is between Greece and America (and more specifically, Hopkinton, Massachusetts), I've seen all of these qualities at work in the John Hancock Elite Athlete Village.

Not only do the athletes feel so comfortable with all of the hosts, they interact with one another as if they've known each other for years. With all that's going on in the world and the criticism of international relations, it is remarkable and reassuring to see how gracious, kind, and compassionate all of these people are.

We refer to the runners as "the elite," or "the athletes," but above all, they are all individuals, and they are all people from different countries across the globe. They're all here in one place, living together, eating together, training together and relaxing together, and their camaraderie and unity is a heartening reminder of the nature of individuals. The John Hancock Elite Athlete Village is a haven that brings together all of these people from around the world.

Running with the Flame

We drove out to Ashland to start the Flame of the Marathon Run, which went from the old start in Ashland to the current starting line in Hopkinton. I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to carry the torch part of the way. I started the run holding the flame, and I ran about a mile with three other girls, handing off the torch every few hundred meters. We then relayed the flame to a second group of runners, who carried it to the Kyriakides statue at the Weston Nurseries' property on the border of Ashland and Hopkinton. We joined them again partway through their run, and I actually had the chance to hold the torch as we finished our run and joined a crowd gathered at the statue.

The group of marathoners from Greece carried the torch the rest of the way to the starting line in Hopkinton, and the rest of us runners ran in with them. At the Hopkinton Common, there was a ceremony for the flame.

I felt such a rush carrying the torch lit with a glowing flame! We had police details driving all around us, and people came out on their lawns to cheer us on. Even though my arm definitely grew tired holding the torch up high, it was all worth it for the unbelievable and unprecedented experience.

What an emotional day—the Flame of the Marathon carries such symbolism, so I was fortunate to have the chance to run with it at the first Flame of the Marathon Run (the flame will travel to cities around the world for similar ceremonies).


Saturday, April 19, 2008
8:42 AM

Dinner with a smile

Last night was a late night—I went to a dinner at the Copley Plaza Hotel for everyone involved in the John Hancock Elite Athlete Village.

The evening offered a great opportunity for me to interact with several of the athletes. During the pre-dinner reception, I sat with Kenyan athletes Robert Cheruiyot and James Macharia.

Robert told me all about how in school, he was always the class clown. "When the teacher was at the board, I would tell jokes and all the other children would laugh. When the teacher turned back around, I was serious." His imitations of the pranks were hilarious!

Robert even pulled his own little prank during the reception. When the server came around with hors d'oeuvres, he reached straight for the decorative flower and started to put it in his mouth…the server was a little flabbergasted, but quickly recovered, telling Robert that the flower actually was edible—it was an orchid.

We talked about our favorite music (Robert loves Akon, but he's not as big a fan of Kanye West), and the best sneaker brands. Robert was actually wearing the brand new Nikes he'll be running in on Monday! He plans on running in them today to break them in. Though he'll be donning the Nike insignia on Monday, Robert says he prefers Reebok. He did like the material on James's Asics, though.

During dinner, I had a chance to practice the Arabic I learned in Arabic I this year…I sat with three Moroccan athletes—Abderrahime Bouramdane, Abdelhadi El Mouaziz, and Khalid El Boumlili. All of them, especially Abderrahime, were so full of energy! Abderrahime didn't stop laughing, and he had a great sense of humor.

Abdelhadi and Khalid don't speak English, but we all were still able to communicate with gestures and through Abderrahime, who speaks the language well. Also at our table were several TRACS employees, who certainly kept a smile on the athletes' faces.

Abderrahime told us, "Life is good!" and then taught me an Arabic phrase that means, "I'm in Utopia."

Today I'll be going out to Ashland to run a segment of the Flame of the Marathon relay from Ashland to Hopkinton to Boston. The flame, which came from Marathon, Greece, will be relayed atop a torch from the old starting line in Ashland, for 3 miles to the 1-mile mark, where there is a statue of 1946 champion Stylianos Kyriakides. There, the torch will be handed off to seven visiting Greek marathoners who are running on Monday, who will run the flame from their homeland the rest of the way into Boston.


Friday, April 18, 2008
11:39 AM 

Mingling with the Elite - Press Conference

"Boston is the best marathon in the world." Straight from the lips of 2007 Dallas White Rock Marathon winner James Koskei, who placed fourth at Boston last spring.

I just returned from the press conference at the Copley Plaza Hotel, where I was among the professional reporters, interviewing and chatting with the elite runners.

Two grand event ballrooms at the Copley were set up with tables—two or three athletes seated at each one. I made the rounds with all of the reporters, honing in on free tables.

James Koskei and Christopher Cheboiboch

Kenyan athletes James Koskei and Christopher Cheboiboch were especially eager to share their thoughts with me. They're so outgoing and cheerful, and we talked about everything from race goals, to their family back in Kenya, to the food at the Village (which, according to every athlete I spoke to, is quite good!).

I noticed that many of the reporters were relentlessly questioning the Kenyan athletes about the post-election violence in their homeland. Since these athletes were constantly answering questions about the situation, I decided not to include the sensitive subject in my interviews, and instead, to talk with the athletes about their own passions and the topics they preferred to speak about.

"In Kenya, when I'm not training, I'm a farmer," says James. When he is running, though, he takes every workout seriously. "I'm always training—I must train hard."

On the farm, Koskei has four children, the oldest of whom is 12 years old. They don't run, though—"They're too young!" says James. "Right now they are concentrating on school."

James has been training in the United States for almost a month. He spent the last few weeks in Boulder, Colorado, building endurance by training at altitude. "What I miss most is to see my kids," says James. "But I talked with them yesterday! They all want to talk to me, so I have to make sure to talk to each one."

Missing family is a common theme among the athletes. Christopher Cheboiboch says that his four kids "really miss me, and I miss them, too." Back in Kenya, Chris runs a school that he started in 2005. He lives with his wife, a schoolteacher with a diploma in special education, and his four children. "To me, education is fundamental," says Chris. "Without school, I could not interact with you right now the way I am." Chris's flawless English conveyed his passions for both running and education.

"I have to support my community and make sure the kids there get a good education." Chris's school is for children up to age 12 or 13; the oldest children go on to high school, or secondary school.

As for the race, Chris's goal is "to win!" He says, "I know it's not easy, and I'm not saying I'm the best. You cannot celebrate until [you see] the breaking tape [of the finish line]. But I have to run my best. My own training has been going well." He adds, "I always tell my mind that I have to overcome any pain."

I, for one, have always wondered how these elite athletes keep going without getting injured. I know that I've experienced several running injuries in the past year. So I asked Chris how he prevents injury. His secret: massages. "After any hard workout, go for a massage. When I'm training, I have my own massage therapist." (I'll have to work on getting one of those…) He adds, "With any training, you have to start slowly. And after runs, I always warm down and do some exercises. I have recovery, eat good food, no drinking [alcohol], and good protein."

What do they eat?

Food is a crucial part of training, and the athletes all say that the food here is excellent. "I like it because they make our national food, injera," says Yirefu Birhanu of Ethiopia. Injera is a flat, spongy bread eaten with savory meals. I actually had an opportunity to taste injera just yesterday!

Bruna Genovese of Italy said, "The food is good…the pasta is a little different!" Of course, that is one area in which she's an expert—who can top pasta straight from Italy?

James Koskei mentioned that he hopes next year they'll have ugali, a Kenyan staple. "You boil water, add corn meal, and cook it. We always eat ugali in Kenya," said James.

Most of the athletes, though, said that they eat the same food here and in their native countries. Chris Cheboiboch's favorite food? "Rice and steak!" He also likes the tea that they serve in the dining hall here at the Village. "I have tea in Kenya," he remarks. "The food here is really good!"

Do they like the weather in Boston?

Although we're enjoying what seems to be a bit of a heat wave, the weather here in Boston is still cold for many of the athletes, who are coming from mostly warm climates.

Chris Cheboiboch, though, is used to the climate changes. "To me, the weather is not a big deal. I'm traveling a lot, so it has become normal." His ideal race-day temperature: 55-60 degrees. Magdaline Chemjor of Kenya agrees, "It's cold, but I hope for good weather. Maybe 15 degrees [Celsius]." That's about 59 degrees Fahrenheit.

Romanian runner Nota Olaru says, "I like cold weather because there's no need to rehydrate as much."

James Macharia of Kenya has a few strategies for staying warm in the unfamiliar climate. says, "I wear warm clothes, and drink hot water, and there's no problem."

A good night's sleep

For the athletes who haven't been training in the United States in the months leading up to the Boston Marathon, the time difference is an obstacle.

Magdaline Chemjor says, "Sleeping is tough—in Kenya it's almost sleeping time now." Regardless of the hour, though, all of the runners I spoke to said that they make sure to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. They certainly have their priorities straight!

In their blood

Many of these athletes have been running since they were young children—it's become a part of the fabric of their lives, and they could never live without it. I asked them how they started running, and I received a wide variety of responses.

Several runners were inspired by successful professional runners. Bruna Genovese said that when she was 12 years old, she saw the success of her coach, 1988 New York Marathon runner-up Salvatore Bettiol, and was motivated to start running. "I said, 'I think I want to become like him,'" said Bruna. It was easy for her to get started—Bettiol lives about 200 meters from her house. How convenient!

Ethiopian athlete Yirefu Birhanu began running in high school when he heard about the Atlanta Olympics. He says he was inspired by Ethiopian super runner Kenenisa Bekele.

James Macharia of Kenya began running when he was eight years old. His reasons for running are similar to those of Kenyan runner Shadrack Kiplagat, who says he runs "because I enjoy it!"

Magdaline Chemjor didn't start out as a runner—she started by walking! "I used to go walking. After some time, I used to run on the road."

Seen and heard at the press conference…

I couldn't possibly tell you about everything I heard at the press conference, so I've decided to compile a list of quotes from the elite athletes:

"I started running when I was 12 years old, in gym at school. I ran the 1500, the 3000. When I was 24, I decided I wanted to try marathons."
-Nuta Olaru, Romania

"I decided to come to Boston because of the competition, and because I like Boston. It's my dream to run a big race like Boston."
-Magdaline Chemjor, Kenya

"I started running marathons to gain endurance, and because I hope to break a record."
-James Macharia, Kenya

"My goal is to run my pace. If the women run fast, I won't run with them. I know the Boston Marathon, and after 30 kilometers, it's too hard to keep a fast pace if you go too fast at the beginning."
-Bruna Genovese, Italy

"The serving is very nice, and the corporation [John Hancock] is very good!"
-James Macharia, Kenya

"I like the buildings here in Boston. Also, the people are friendly, and there is a lot of humanity."
-Christopher Cheboiboch, Kenya

"This week, I do easy runs, and maybe 400-meter repeats."
-Nuta Olaru, Romania

"I do 40-50 minute runs this week."
-Shadrack Kiplagat, Kenya

"I want to run a good time [on Monday], like 2:27. And I want a good finish."
-Nuta Olaru, Romania

"The 10k is my favorite distance!"
-James Koskei, Kenya

"I like marathons [better than track running] because I prefer the street!"
-Nuta Olaru, Romania

"I'm so happy to be here."
-Askale Magarsa, Ethopia


Friday, April 18, 2008
9:09 AM

This morning, I went for a run through Boston and along the Charles River. Even though I've lived just 15 minutes outside of Boston for my whole, life, I've never actually run through the city itself. The roads are so serene in the early morning hours. Especially around marathon time, it seems like runners own the city; it's nice to be out when other runners are almost the only people in the streets.

As I ran along Storrow Drive, I saw several of the elite athletes who are staying at the Village. Some were speeding by at such a fast pace, while others just jogged along on an easy run. It was interesting to see how their workouts and paces varied—like any athlete, these elite runners have easy days, too. Seeing the grace and poise with which these athletes move inspired me to extend my own run a little longer.

I saw at least ten different runners while I was along the river—they were easy to spot, because many of them were wearing their John Hancock beanies, the hats they received upon arrival! Several of them were running in groups—I saw Ethiopians Tesfaye Girma and Dejene Yirdaw, among others.

On the way back, I saw Askale Tafa Magarsa and her husband, Tola Gudeta, when I was stopped at a light. I picked the two of them up at the airport on Tuesday, so they recognized me (even in my running clothes) and we all wished each other good morning before continuing on our way. The two were wearing silver full-body wind suits—all of the elite runners actually have very sleek clothing. I'm curious as to where they get all of their attire, and how they decide what to wear. The weather here is certainly different from where they live, so it must be hard to predict for them. I know picking out running clothes is always the hardest part of getting out the door for me. I'll definitely ask some of the runners about that next time I speak with them!

I'm going to the press conference this morning, where I'll be chatting with several of the athletes. Should be exciting—I'll have a chance to circulate the tables just as the press do!


Thursday, April 17, 2008
5:07 PM

What a day! I went to the State House for the welcoming of the Flame of the Marathon. It turns out the speech was by State Senator Karen Spilka, who stood in the Senate Reading Room flanked by Spyros Zagaris and Dimitris Kyriakides. She spoke of the history behind the twin-city relationship between Hopkinton, Massachusetts and Marathon, Greece, as well as the story of Dimitris Kyriakides's father, Stylianos, who won the Boston Marathon in 1946.

"We are incredibly fortunate to be part of history," said Senator Spilka. And history it was—how moving to see these representatives from the town of Marathon, Greece, who have such a history with the marathon itself. Stylianos Kyriakides survived World War II, in part because he was an Olympic-caliber athlete.

Also present were His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, Greek Consul General Constantinos Orphanides and Director of the Hopkinton Athletic Association Dorothy Ferriter , as well as Tim Kilduff of the Hopkinton Athletic Association and Chairwoman of the Board of Selectmen in Hopkinton Muriel Kramer. Six (very stylish) Greek ultra-marathoners also arrived—they'll be running the Boston Marathon on Monday!

The senator presented a joint resolution to Mayor Zagaris, and then the mayor himself said a few words. With tears welling in his eyes, he said, "It's a great honor to be here." He then announced, "We're spreading the word of peace, brotherhood, and love."

The mayor and Dimitris Kyriakides signed the book of registrants for the Senate at the State House. When I was standing with TRACS founder and president Fred Treseler, Mr. Kyriakides told us, "It's very emotional."

Afterwards, the Greek guests exchanged gifts with the senators—everything from commemorative sculpted wreaths to framed photographs to T-shirts.

The flame itself, carried in a lantern no larger than a foot high, never left our sight. Mayor Zagaris carried it to the podium when he spoke, it was on the table beside him while they presented gifts, and it even sat beside the baklava on the table at the reception in a room next to the senator's office!

I would consider it a wonderful experience just to enter the State House, but this was truly awe-inspiring. Watching the emotion in the Greek guests' eyes made me realize the power and importance of their visit, and how much it means to them.

I've got to head out now, but I can't wait to attend the press conference with the athletes tomorrow. Today was an interesting experience outside of the John Hancock Elite Athlete Village, but I'm looking forward to getting to know more of the runners


Thursday, April 17, 2008
1:30 PM

On my way to the State House to officially welcome the Flame of the Marathon and the guests from Marathon, Greece. The state Senate, which is in session today, will be greeting the visitors, and there'll be a speech by the Speaker of the House, Salvatore Dimasi. I'm sure I'll have plenty of exciting news when I return!

This morning, the flame made its way to Hopkinton for John Hancock Appreciation Day. I'm told that town leaders conducted a breakfast to thank John Hancock representatives Jim Gallagher (Senior Vice President, Government Relations, Community Relations & Communications) and Carol Fulp (Vice President, Community Relations). The event was in appreciation for John Hancock's support of the cities and towns along the course, and for their participation in the Adopt-a-Marathoner Program.

I couldn't be there this morning, but it sounds like it went well. That's the downside of such an incredible program—there's always something going on, and I can't be everywhere at once. I'll see the flame this afternoon, though, at the State House…


Wednesday, April 16, 2008
3:54 PM

Governor of Marathon, Greece Spyros Zagaris and Dimitris Kyriakides, son of 1946 Boston Marathon Winner Stylianos Kyriakides, just arrived! They came bearing the "Flame of the Marathon," which will light a torch to be carried from Boston to Hopkinton to commemorate the 112th Boston Marathon.

The flame symbolizes peace, comradeship, collaboration and cultural exchange, and will remain in Hopkinton to burn eternally. (For more information on the Flame of the Marathon, see http://marathonflame.us/)

In the lobby of the John Hancock Elite Athlete Village, several of the hosts and I greeted the guests and had the chance to pose for photos with them and the revered flame. What an honor!


Wednesday, April 16, 2008
2:00 PM 

Lunch With the Pros

Today I ate lunch with the experts behind Boston. Legendary coach Bill Squires, TRACS founder and president Fred Treseler, and former Boston Marathon race director Tim Kilduff joined me at a table with some other members of the staff. Oh, the stories! They all go back so many years.

Bill Squires has trained numerous elite athletes and several Boston champions, including Bill Rodgers, Alberto Salazar, and Bobby Hall. He was also Fred Treseler's mentor and former coach. Fred is now my coach.

Bill Squires could probably tell stories for years—he certainly has no shortage! If I tried to retell his stories now, my blog would probably be a 10-page paper, so I'll spare you the details. But sitting with such key individuals was certainly a highlight of my day.


Wednesday, April 16, 2008
1:00 PM 

Boston Kenya Project—A Trip to the Zoo

This morning, I went to the Franklin Park Zoo with host Chris Chanyasulkit and athletes Rita Jeptoo and Robert Cheruiyot. The trip was part of the "Boston Kenya Project," which allows children from Boston Public Schools to meet the Kenyan athletes and learn about their successful history with the marathon. Interacting with the Kenyan runners fits in perfectly with the students' curriculum, which highlights Kenyan culture and tradition.

From riding in the van with Rita and Robert, to watching them talk with the children, the morning was definitely the most outstanding experience I've had thus far. In the car, Robert told me about the animals in Kenya, and about his two-year-old daughter, Elsie.

The host with us, Chris, actually got married this summer, and Robert told her that when he returns to Boston a year from now, he wants her to have two children! When Chris asked him why she had to have two children, while he only has one, Robert replied, 'Because this is America!' Hmm...America, the land of abundance...

Robert said that he loved seeing himself on the Boston Marathon banners hanging throughout the city. In the car, we all played 'find Robert' as we drove through the streets of Boston.

Robert is so joyful all of the time—he was fascinated by the animals at the zoo, and the smile never left his face while he was speaking with the kids.

As Rita and Robert greeted the children, there was an explosion of applause and screaming. The kids were thrilled to meet these athletes about whom they've learned so much.

On the way out, Rita and I had a little start when a gorilla jumped toward the glass and began beating its chest at us…We looked at each other and burst out laughing. There was plenty of laughter this morning—Robert is quite the jokester! On the drive back to the Village, Chris asked him if there was anything he needed. His response: "I need to cry…" That gave us a moment of concern, of course, and our expressions froze for a moment, until an enormous grin spread across his face, and he said, "I'm just kidding!"

The morning worked up an appetite in all of us, and Robert and Rita were eager to get back to the Village for a delicious lunch.


Wednesday, April 16, 2008
9:30 AM

Back from breakfast, where I had a chance to catch up with Maria, a host in her seventies who's been volunteering in the Village for 10 years. She became involved with the marathon after meeting Fred Treseler in a delicatessen in Brighton, Massachusetts and overhearing him speak about the hosting program. She mentioned that she'd love to volunteer and gave Fred her contact info. Goes to show how opportunities can really come about by chance!

The athletes were all gathered around one big table at breakfast—at least 10 of them were there. As I left, all of them looked up and waved goodbye, smiling ear-to-ear. They certainly seem happy to be here—it's like a home away from home.


Tuesday, April 15, 2008
4:30 PM

Meticulous Methods: Athlete Processing

Walking in the door isn't an automatic "in" at the John Hancock Elite Athlete Village. There's a process. Athletes come from across the globe, and it's important that all documents, identification, and security are in order.

With Alfredo, I led Askale and Tola to the Athlete Processing room, where they had to sit down and sign several documents regarding their accommodations and the race. All the athletes are required to fill out various race documents and applications, and they all sign up to decorate their elite athlete water bottles. (More to come on that later…)

The Athlete Processing room is lined with posters from previous marathons and information about the city of Boston. It even has a "mural" backdrop with a spring scene in Boston drawn on a whiteboard—an impromptu artful addition by Alfredo!

My shift ends soon, but I'll be back before breakfast tomorrow to see what the day brings.


Tuesday, April 15, 2008
4:25 PM

Just got back from the airport. Picking up the athlete was an incredible experience! I joined Alfredo, a host in the Village, on his airport pick-up for Askale Tafa Magarsa. Alfredo's been hosting for nine years. Even though he lives in California, he always flies back to Boston to take part in the excitement. An avid marathoner, he'll be running the race next week!

Askale arrived with her husband, Tola Gudeta, and it was amazing to watch their excitement at landing in Boston. Upon their arrival, we welcomed them both to Boston and presented Askale with a bouquet of flowers. They're both so gracious and kind, and they never stopped smiling! I would think they'd be tired after flying all the way from Ethiopia, but it certainly didn't show.

It's their first time in the city, and their eyes were basically glued out the window on the drive back to the Village. They talked quietly between themselves, answering any questions we had. (When asked if they were hungry, the response was a courteous no—they ate at the airport earlier).

Back at the Village, Askale and Tola were issued credentials for access to the John Hancock Conference Center. Then, on to Athlete Processing…


Tuesday, April 15, 2008
11:46 AM

Just got in for my shift at the John Hancock Elite Athlete Village. It's an exciting day…the athletes are beginning to arrive. Robert Cheruiyot (last year's champion, seeking his fourth win) and Rita Jeptoo (2006 champion) checked in a little while ago and were in athlete processing when I came in. What a surprise to walk into a room and find world-class athletes standing right in front of me!

As a host, I'm scheduled to go on an airport run later today to greet Askale Tafa Magarsa, an Ethiopian female athlete. Meeting her should be interesting (and humbling)—she's the champion of three different marathons (2007 Dubai, 2007 Paris, and 2006 Milan). We'll see what the afternoon brings! More on the airport pick-up later. 


April 14, 2008

I'm Elleree Erdos, a senior at the Buckingham Browne and Nichols School (BB&N) in Cambridge, Massachusetts. During senior spring at BB&N, students can swap classes for internships and other exclusive opportunities in a program called "Senior Project." As part of my Senior Project with TRACS Inc, I've been volunteering at the John Hancock Elite Athlete Village during the weeks leading up to the Boston Marathon.

The Village will be home to 29 elite athletes for the next week, and as a host in the Village, I have an unprecedented opportunity to live, dine, converse, and maybe even run with these talented international runners. I'll be checking in daily with entries in this blog, keeping you in tune with events every step of the way, from picking up the athletes at the airport, to attending a press conference, to live updates on race day as the marathon unfolds.

I hope my perspective will offer a new outlook on the sport of marathoning, as well as what goes into race-day preparation and how these exceptional athletes ready themselves for the big race.

I've been hearing about the John Hancock Elite Athlete Village for weeks now. Bits and pieces of information began to come together to give me a picture of the atmosphere, but I never really knew what to expect until I walked in the doors of the John Hancock Hotel and Conference Center this week.

Now that I've seen the Village itself, I know how it all works. The "boiler room," where the head honchos spend their hours, is always bustling with activity. The hotel has been transformed, with Boston Marathon banners and memorabilia lining the walls. But it all comes to life tomorrow—the athletes will arrive.

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