The Boston Athletic Association (BAA) announced this week that the 2014 Boston Marathon will have a “no bags” policy as part of its increased security measures following last year’s bombing attack.
Backpacks, purses and suitcases will no longer be allowed near the 26-mile course as part of new safety requirements. Runners who wish to have a change of clothing will be provided with a clear plastic bag by the BAA, which must be checked prior to boarding the bus to the starting line.
In addition to bags, a number of other common race items have been banned in 2014. Glass containers, drinkware larger than 1 liter, strollers, and signs or flags larger than 11″ x 17″ are not permitted within any marathon venues, including the course itself and the starting and finishing areas.
Clothing will also be regulated at the event. Costumed charity runners will not be allowed to wear anything that covers their faces, and baggy or loose-fitting garments are also prohibited.
Unauthorized runners, who traditionally have jumped the cordon to join the race, will be removed from the course. “We are aware that many people want to participate in some way in this year’s Boston Marathon as a display of support, but we ask that those who are not official participants to refrain from entering the course for the safety of the runners and themselves,” the BAA said in a statement.
Military marchers and cyclists, who have traditionally been allowed on parts of the course, will not be permitted this year.
The new regulations come after two hidden inside backpacks were detonated during the 2013 race, killing three and injuring more than 260.
A list of allowed and prohibited items, as well as other race changes, is available on the BAA’s website.
