Memorial run a gesture of support for Boston


How to go

What: Memorial run

When: 7:41 p.m. Sunday

Where: Corner of McCreight Avenue and Fountain Boulevard

Area runners horrified by the Boston Marathon bombings plan to host a memorial jog Sunday evening to support the victims, law enforcement and others impacted by the terrorist attack.

“We want to give Springfield residents a chance to express their support for the people of Boston — the first responders, the victims and their families,” said Littleton and Rob Rue, owner of Littleton and Rue Funeral Home.

The 2.62-mile jog will begin at 7:41 p.m. at the corner of McCreight Avenue and Fountain Boulevard. Walkers and those who want to bring posters and take pictures are encouraged attend.

Rue and Alex Loehrer, an avid runner, planned the event last week after learning about the attack that killed three people, including an 8-year-old boy, and injured more than 170 others.

Bombing suspect Dzhokar Tsarnaev, 19, was captured Friday night after he was found hiding in a boat in Watertown, Mass. His brother, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was killed Thursday in a shootout with police.

Rue and Loehrer, who run in marathons, were saddened that the Boston race was targeted for attack.

He and Rue said runners in marathons and other similar events often want to fulfill a long-term goal or raise money for an organization or a sick friend.

“When you run in a race you’re setting a goal of hope. To see them come in and try to destroy that is devastating,” Rue said.

Loehrer said participants and those who come to cheer them can sign a card that will be sent to Boston.

He and Rue hope the event shows that Springfield is thinking of people affected by the attack and provides a show of support to the Boston Marathon Association to have a successful event next year.

“It’s our little way of letting them know we’re thinking about them,” Loehrer said.

For more information, visit Rob Rue on Facebook or find Alex Loehrer on twitter @akloehrer. To follow information about the run use twitter hashtag: #spfldoh<3boston.

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