2014 Boston Marathon

Today, the marathon is ours. We bring it back to being one of, if not, the best day in Boston each year. Undoubtedly, an emotional day for all even before the events of last year, but today will be something special.

A year later, we are back, on the 3rd Monday of April, and we are running again. As promised. We have run races, held charity events, bought t-shirts, watched every ounce of media coverage, but today we are here. Was there ever any doubt? If the events of the past week, and hearing survivor stories, and watching my great friend Pat Downes impress the world with his words, hasn't made you want to run, donate, or just be around the awesomeness of today then your heart must have fallen out of your body somewhere along the way. I'd suggest going back to find it, pick it back up, and get involved. The events and passion shown by Bostonians today is going to tug at everyone of its strings. Today will undoubtedly be a day to remember.

Good luck to all of the runners today. You've put in the work through a miserable training winter. You've endured injuries, loaded up on carbs @PrezzaBoston, and may not be feeling 100% today, but when you hit that pavement, let your fellow runners and the city of Boston lead you to Boylston. Let the images you have seen this past year stay fresh in your mind. Let your family or friends and all the issues or drama you may be experiencing build up so that it can be released when you cross that finish line. There is nothing bigger than that, for you, today.

A special good luck to Tim Mullaney #26175 (@TMullaney15 / @thestrawman15) who will be running Mile 18 in honor of my mom, Sal Merlino #25669 (@salmerlino) in from NY riding some momentum off a huge Flyers win last night, Paul Sodergen #26400 (@insodwetrust), Digitas Runners: Shannon #29730 (@shannonlobrien), Justin #29932 (@J_Unger), Molly #28584, Peter #29728 (@PeterRiddle). Kevin, Julia and more, and to one of my best friends and groomsman, Colin Carey #29954, whos last few weeks have been a battle through multiple injuries, but never missed an early morning run in negative degrees and absolutely will be strapping up at that starting line.

A local good luck to Shalane Flanagan (@ShalaneFlanagan) and her drive to win the ladies event. We'll be waiting for Colin and the rest of you at the finish.

Lastly, to Pat #36469 and Jess #36470, whether you end up getting on those hand bikes or not today, we stand behind you. If you need to be carried, we will carry you. If you need to be pushed, we will push you. We are ALWAYS behind you and your passion, resilience, and love is an inspiration to us all. We think about you today and every day.

We are ALL behind all of you today and will do what we can as spectators to help you achieve this lifelong incredible moment.

Nat and I are heading to the Sox game shortly and then walking over towards the finish line. I can't wait to see the scene.

Have fun, enjoy the energy of the crowd, and continue to define #BostonStrong and #WatertownStrong.

To track friends and family, text their bib numbers to 345678.

Happy Marathon Monday!