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It is the third Monday in April, which means it is Patriots Day and the day of the Boston Marathon, perhaps the most prestigious marathon race in the world.  It is also one of the most important days in the New England calendar. Many local schools, colleges and places of business take a holiday so people can watch. Hundreds of thousands of people from across the country (and indeed the world) descend on “The Hub” for the event. Some estimates even put the number of spectators, tourists and fans that visit specifically for the Marathon at 500,000 each year - nearly the entire population of the city of Boston proper. People hold parties throughout the day, many of them partaking of libations. I’ve heard tell that the college students get particularly rowdy, though I wouldn’t know anything about that. From the starting line in Hopkinton, MA, the course winds through several Boston suburbs before finally ending at Boylston Street. Along the way, the thousands of spectators lining the edges of the course set up shop, holding signs, cheering rapturously and enjoying the race with friends. One of the great things about the Marathon is the variety of people who participate. Of course, it is one of the toughest Marathons in the world to qualify for, so serious runners abound. Don't be surprised if someone you see running in Boston ends up competing in the Olympics. The race doesn’t just consist of hardcore pros, however. Many qualify by raising money for a charitable organization; a group of runners with shirts advertising various good causes is a common sight throughout the course. Young and old alike participate. Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to officially enter the race in 1967, will be participating in today’s race at age 70. Switzer famously entered the race under the gender neutral designation “KV Switzer” and nearly had her bib torn off by an angry race official. It was believed that women were too fragile to complete the demanding race but they were finally accepted in 1972. The Boston Marathon also makes room for disabled athletes with many using specially made push-rim three wheeled running wheelchairs. There is now an entire push rim division with its own qualifying times, records and champions. Of course I would be remiss if I did not mention the terrible and tragic bombings of 2013, when a detonation near the finish line killed three and wounded many others. While the painful memories of the day linger, so too does the spirit of resilience and strength shown that day by first responders, athletes and citizens. “Boston Strong” became the rallying cry for the whole city and the region. While there is still a sense of solemnity around the proceedings, the enthusiasm for the race has not dimmed in Boston. Indeed, many Bostonians will say that the event strengthened the appreciation for this fine local custom. So even if you’re nowhere near Boston, raise a glass (or mug of coffee) to the Boston Marathon, the finest race around. Pump Products application engineers are standing by to provide technical assistance, price quotes or to answer any questions you may have regarding pumps. Call our toll free number 1-800-429-0800.