London Marathon to raise $100,000 for Boston victims

LONDON (AFP) –

A running shoe and US flag are part of a memorial on the Boston Marathon route on April 18, 2013 in Boston. London Marathon organisers announced on Thursday that they will donate £2 ($3, 2.30 euros) for every finisher in Sunday’s race to a fund for victims of the bomb attacks in Boston.

London Marathon organisers announced on Thursday that they will donate £2 ($3, 2.30 euros) for every finisher in Sunday’s race to a fund for victims of the bomb attacks in Boston.

The One Fund Boston was set up to help people affected by the twin bombings that killed three people and injured over 180 during Monday’s Boston Marathon.

With around 35,500 people expected to complete the London race, organisers hope to raise more than £70,000 ($100,000) for the fund.

“Everyone connected with the London Marathon was shocked by the terrible events in Boston, and we are keen to show our support to the victims’ families and our friends in the running community there,” said London Marathon race director Hugh Brasher.

The race director of the Boston Marathon, Tom Grilk, expressed his gratitude for the gesture.

“It was the City of Boston that was attacked this week, and we are deeply gratified that the citizens of Boston are receiving so many displays of support,” he said.

“We will remember what the runners in London and the organisers of the Virgin London Marathon are doing on Sunday. On behalf of everyone, thank you.”

There will be a 30-second period of silence prior to the London Marathon in tribute to the Boston victims, while competitors have also been encouraged to wear black ribbons.