The Boston Marathon, one of the most prestigious running events in the world, is set to increase its prize money and include two additional para athlete divisions, surpassing a total purse of $1 million for the first time in its history. The Boston Athletic Association (BAA), which organizes the race, announced that the event will now welcome athletes classified with coordination impairments and intellectual impairments, expanding the inclusivity of the race.
The introduction of these new divisions is part of the BAA’s ongoing efforts to celebrate and reward athletic excellence and elevate para athletes in their pursuit of podium finishes. The race organizers aim to support and promote para athletes across all events, from the 5K race to the marathon. By providing equal opportunities for athletes with different impairments, the BAA hopes to inspire future generations of para athletes and create more avenues for people with disabilities to compete in the sport.
In addition to the expansion of the para athlete divisions, the prize money for the wheelchair and para athlete categories will also see a significant increase. The first prize for the men’s and women’s wheelchair winners will rise to $40,000 from $25,000, and a $50,000 bonus will be awarded for setting a course record, matching the amount awarded to the winners of the men’s and women’s divisions. The prize money for second through tenth places will also see an increase, bringing the total purse for the wheelchair divisions to $313,500. The winners of the open men’s and women’s divisions will each receive $150,000.
The boost in prize money is crucial for para athletes, as it enables them to afford expensive racing equipment and cover travel expenses to participate in races. Furthermore, the provision of prize money reflects the BAA’s recognition of wheelchair racers as elite athletes and has contributed to the growth and improvement of the sport. By offering financial support, the BAA not only helps athletes achieve their goals but also provides role models and exposure to more people with disabilities.
Para athletes are lauding the BAA’s efforts to increase inclusivity and push for diversity in the sport. Susannah Scaroni, the defending Boston Marathon wheelchair winner and Paralympic gold medalist, emphasized the significance of the legacy left by the original wheelchair athletes in 1970, which has paved the way for para athletes to be recognized as professional athletes. Scaroni expressed her gratitude for the provision of prize money, which has played a crucial role in allowing para athletes to thrive and has encouraged more individuals with disabilities to pursue their dreams.
Marko Cheseto, the world-record holder in the double lower leg amputee division, praised the move and called upon other races to follow suit. He emphasized the importance of diversifying the sport and creating more opportunities for people with disabilities to compete. Cheseto believes that by promoting inclusivity and expanding accessibility, the sport can continue to grow and inspire future generations of para athletes.
With these changes, the Boston Marathon is reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and excellence in the sport. The increased prize money and additional para athlete divisions will not only provide greater recognition and support for para athletes but also contribute to the overall growth and development of para sports globally.
