Pro Tips for Boston Marathon Spectators

Learn how to cheer, how to hand off water, and what to stock in your Solo cup. For more, check out our mile guide to the Boston Marathon.

boston marathon water

Water Photo via Shutterstock.com

Beat the Bonk

We, as spectators, have a very important job to do: get runners to the finish line. But what to do when they look like they’re about to hit the wall?

How to Hand Off H2O to a Runner

Lauren Jones, station lead of the BAA’s 25-mile hydration station, and Chris Chesmore, a longtime race-day volunteer, show us the pro way to help hydrate racers on Marathon Monday.

Make Some Noise

Choose an instrument wisely to ensure your runner hears you above the din.

Going Solo

Before you dismiss the red plastic cup as a vestige of college parties past, consider this: It’s the ultimate tool for assembling carefully calibrated cocktails. Here are three creative quaffs.

Put Some Boston in Your Step

The Hub is a sneaker capital of sorts—New Balance, Reebok, Vibram, Converse, Puma, and Saucony all have area ties—and in 2014, two of those companies are showing their Boston pride with trainers designed for the marathon.

By the Numbers

There were 790 port-a-potties at the starting line in 2013, plus more fun stats to impress your friends.

Grand Finales

Cross the line in style with one of these photo finishes.