“The Flying Pig Marathon prepared for an additional number of registrants for each race due to the growing support for the Marathon in light of the Boston Marathon tragedy and also extended its online registration,” Simpson Bush said.
Simpson Bush said increased security after the bombings in Boston that killed three and injured hundreds included more uniformed personnel at the start, finish and along the courses and a higher level of credentials in certain areas.
“We have been taking extraordinary measures to reassess, and in some cases, strengthen our security plans,” Simpson Bush said.
Sam Diemert of Beavercreek was traveling around the course Sunday on a bicycle to support girlfriend Katie Ussin, who was running the half marathon.
“The boys in blue are doing a good job keeping an eye out; I’m not too worried,” Diemert said.
Diemert said this was the couple’s first Ohio marathon after moving to Dayton from Montana.
“It’s more about the buzz of this thing,” Diemert said of the Flying Pig. “It’s pretty great to see all the support. It’s a huge turnout.”
Miranda Norman of Springfield was with friends Sunday supporting two runners in the half marathon — Russ Thayer of Troy and Sandra Ruble of New Carlisle. Norman was one of more than 5,000 volunteers during the weekend events, and also walked the 10K on Saturday.
“It’s fun, the support you get,” Norman said, who completed a seven-mile relay leg in the marathon last year. “The adrenaline rush takes over.”
Norman said she purchased the Flying Pig’s “Boston Strong” jersey because “it’s what I can do to support the victims.” Proceeds from the shirt sales support The One Fund Boston.
Simpson Bush said she’s been impressed with the outpouring of support from the participants.
“Everyone wants to do this in tribute,” she said.
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