HOPKINTON — Every Patriots’ Day, crowds from near and far pack into town, drawn not only to the start of the Boston Marathon but to the strong sense of community they say defines Marathon Monday.
More than 30,000 runners participated in the iconic race this year, with many more thousands of spectators cheering on loved ones and strangers alike.
On Monday morning, April 20, Hopkinton residents Melissa Haley and Maggie LaFrance stood just before the starting line, watching as runners did their last-minute stretches and preparation before the race. They said they came to watch the race and be a part of the community and are always inspired by runners’ stories…