In a race of over 30,000 participants and thousands of spectators, security measures are known to be taken. Because of the recent tragedy at the Boston Marathon, the upcoming St. Jude Country Music Marathon in Nashville, one of the larger races in the nation, is sure to affect everyone involved.
The sport of running is a complex exercise that people either hate or love, and one of the biggest reasons people find joy in running comes from racing.
“Running in races gives you a goal to focus on, to prevent you from running aimlessly,” junior Exercise Science major Stephanie Silvers said. “It fosters competition and increases motivation- plus the atmosphere and high are awesome.”
The energy and enthusiasm at races are what keep the runners going. Most runners don’t think about their safety during a race because each person running chooses to be there for the joy they find in the sport, and each person spectating chooses to be there cheering on the runners.
The Country Music Marathon benefiting St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and as one of the biggest marathon’s in the nation, it already has plans in action to secure the safety of the people in Nashville. Police Chief Steve Anderson responded to the tragic event in Boston for those concerned.
“Nevertheless, the events of yesterday will certainly now become a part of the safety and security plan. Our partners with the FBI and ATF are working closely with us and will be a part of the meetings over the coming days,” Chief Anderson said.
“Although we may have to get there earlier to get into our corral because of the security checks, I will remember to be thankful that they are taking precaution,” junior Page Parker who is running the Country Music Half Marathon for the fourth consecutive time said.
On April 19, the Competitor Group, Inc. (CGI), organizers of the St. Jude Country Music Marathon & Half Marathon presented by Nissan, released an immediate press release regarding increased security and safety protocol for race day. The specifics include:
· Increased public and private security presence at both the start and finish lines, with more than 150 private security officials added to the staffing plan
· Additional security will monitor the Gear Check vehicles that will be used for storage and transportation of gear bags at both the start and finish line venues.
· Security will control entry and exit into the 32 runner corrals at the start line.
· All participants, spectators and volunteers may be subject to random bag checks at the Health & Fitness Expo and on race day.
· All members of the media and others with access to restricted areas will be required to produce a photo ID and all bags and equipment will be subjected to inspection.
Nashville is hoping to reverse any panic or distress about the day by enhancing security, and many people already feel better hearing of the changes.
“After reading the press release it does make me feel better knowing all they are doing to ensure safety of everyone there,” Parker said.
“I hope to enjoy the run like I have the past three years and am sure it’ll be another great day!”