The Town of Hopkinton is happy to report that its message to runners to refrain from coming to the start line in Hopkinton or attempting to run the marathon course on Patriots’ Day was well received.

On Monday, April 20, instead of it all starting here, the start line in Hopkinton was quiet; no runners, no wheelchair racers, no spectators.

“The running community’s response to Hopkinton’s request, to support Governor Baker’s Stay-at-Home Advisory, was impressive, as almost no one ventured out on the Boston Marathon course,” said Select Board Vice Chair and Boston Athletic Association (BAA) Liaison John Coutinho. “Much credit goes to the Boston Athletic Association, its charity teams, and the media for getting the word out to a wide-ranging audience.”

In addition to respecting the Stay-at-Home Advisory, the lack of activity at the start line also shows respect for our first responders, protecting them from unnecessary risk, and allowing them to stay focused on more important work at the moment.

Select Board members continue to encourage runners to look forward to what promises to be a unique and historic “Marathon Day” when Hopkinton will be welcoming marathon runners and spectators to town on September 14, 2020.