Community Corner

Bags, Other Items Not Allowed at 2014 Boston Marathon

Boston Athletic Association unveils new safety rules.

The Boston Athletic Association has announced changes and policies in place for runners and supporters as the 2014 Boston Marathon approaches.

Working in partnership with public safety officials, the B.A.A. has issued several new policies everyone should be aware of whether you are running the marathon or are a spectator. Here are just some of the new policies in place this year:

No Bags Allowed

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There will be a no bags policy this year for runners. No bags will be allowed on buses from Boston to Hopkinton and bags will not be transported from Hopkinton to Boston. Bags will not be allowed in certain areas at or near the start in Hopkinton, at or near the finish in Boston or anywhere along the course.

The B.A.A. will provide runners a gear check opportunity on Boston Common the morning of the marathon so runners have a change of clothes (shoes, pants, shirt, jacket, etc...) for after the race. A B.A.A.-provided, clear, plastic bag will be used and distributed to runners at number pick-up. Any items runners need at the end of the race must be placed inside this specific bag.

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What Runners May Carry on Race Day

  • A fanny pack (no larger than 5 inches x 15 inches x 5 inches) to carry food, nutritional products, medicine, identification, cell phone, keys or other necessary small items.

  • Standard manufactured “fuel belt” (bottles must be one liter or smaller)

  • The use of headphones is discouraged, but permitted

Prohibited Items

Several items are prohibited from entering any marathon venue, the course, the Athletes’ Village near the start in Hopkinton, start or finish area, and all officially-sanctioned Marathon events. Marathon officials will have security at each location that has the authority to disallow other products they deem inappropriate.

  • Backpacks, any similar item carried over the shoulder, or handbags of any size

  • Glass containers

  • Any container capable of carrying more than 1 liter of liquid

  • Strollers, including baby strollers

  • Suitcases & rolling bags

  • Personal hydration system products (such as CamelBak®, Thor®, etc)

  • Weight vests or any sort of vest with pockets (Note: lightweight running vests are allowable)

  • Costumes covering the face or any non-form fitting, bulky outfits extending beyond the perimeter of the body

  • Props (including sporting equipment and military and fire/gear and signs or flags larger than 11 inches x 17 inches)

  • Any item larger than 5 inches x 15 inches x 5 inches

  • For a complete breakdown of all the new policies in place and for more race day information, visit the Boston Athletic Association’s website.


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