Ten years after his historic victory in the 2014 Boston Marathon, American long-distance runner Meb Keflezighi is set to return to the iconic course this April.
Keflezighi’s triumph in 2014 marked a significant milestone in marathon history, as he became the first American man to win the event since 1983.
Now, as the race gears up for its 128th edition, anticipation is mounting among fans eager to witness Keflezighi’s return.
The announcement of Keflezighi’s participation came via social media, where he shared a video expressing his excitement about returning to the storied streets of Boston. In the video, Keflezighi revealed his intention to run in support of the MEB Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting health, education, and fitness both in the United States and abroad.
For Keflezighi, the decision to lace up his shoes for the Boston Marathon once again holds special significance.
In 2014, his victory not only cemented his place in marathon history but also served as a beacon of resilience for a city still reeling from the tragedy of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings.
Running with the names of the victims on his racing bib, Keflezighi’s triumph was a tribute to the spirit and people of Boston.
Born in Eritrea, Keflezighi’s journey to becoming a marathon champion is anything but ordinary.
Fleeing war and poverty, his family eventually settled in San Diego, where he would become a standout high school athlete. A U.S. citizen, Keflezighi went on to achieve success at the collegiate level, breaking records at UCLA and securing four NCAA titles.
Keflezighi’s illustrious career includes numerous accolades, including a silver medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens and victories at the New York City Marathon in 2009.
However, it was his historic win in Boston that solidified his status as a legend in the sport. Crossing the finish line on Boylston Street in a personal best time of 2:08:37, Keflezighi became the only runner to have ever won an Olympic medal, the New York City Marathon and the Boston Marathon.
As Keflezighi prepares to toe the line once again in Boston, the significance of the moment is not lost on spectators. With the race set to commence on April 15, 2024, all eyes will be on Keflezighi as he laces up his shoes once again following his official retirement in 2017.
Keflezighi also made an appearance earlier this year at the 2024 Mumbai Marathon, which he attended as an ambassador of the event.
In the words of Keflezighi himself, “I am lacing my shoes in Hopkinton and running the Boston Marathon on April 15, 2024. Ten years ago I had the great honor to put the victory for all of us among the 36,000 others who want to make a difference at the streets of Boston. Boston strong.”
