London Marathon ‘will go ahead’ despite Boston tragedy
LONDON MARATHON chiefs have confirmed Sunday’s race will go ahead despite explosions which killed at least two and maimed several others at the Boston Marathon yesterday.
Security for more than 36,000 runners in the capital and about half a million spectators will be reviewed, however, but London Marathon chief executive Nick Bitel said: “There is no doubt at all, the Marathon will be going ahead at the weekend. We will not be cancelling the event.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the news from Boston. Our immediate thoughts are with the people there and their families. It is a very sad day for athletics and for our friends and colleagues in marathon running.
“Our security plan is developed jointly with the Metropolitan Police and we were in contact with them as soon as we heard the news.”
Paula Radcliffe, the current women’s marathon world record holder and a three-time winner of both the London and New York events, said: “I’m horrified to hear the news of the explosion near the Boston Marathon finish.
“The situation looks awful and my thoughts are with everyone.”