The New England Patriots announced that 100 runners will participate in a marathon on Friday, September 28th at 5:00 PM ET. This takes place ahead of the divisional game against the Miami Dolphins in week 4. The course is certified by USATF, which means that runners can qualify for the Boston Marathon.
“During the event, runners will be treated to live performances and music, appearances by Patriots alumni and cheerleaders, and other entertainment throughout the evening,” the Patriots announced via press release. “Spectators will be able to cheer on runners from the Optum Field Lounge, an indoor and outdoor hospitality space located on field level in the south end zone. The Optum Field Lounge will also serve as the water stop for the race.”
Sounds like fun, right?
Gross, no thank you.
In order to finish the marathon, runners will need to complete more than 100 laps on the warning track surrounding the turf. That’s a horrifying proposition for a runner. Can you imagine the mental fortitude necessary to run the same segment of track over 100 times? It sounds like the premise to a secretly-amazing Tom Cruise movie.
“We are thrilled to be hosting our first marathon inside Gillette Stadium,” said Josh Kraft, president of the New England Patriots Foundation. “This is a really unique opportunity for participants to run a USATF-certified course that covers 26.2 miles entirely inside the home of the Patriots and the Revolution.”
Sure, Josh. Be thrilled.
In actuality, this marathon is for a great cause as proceeds “will help ... raise critical funds for the New England Patriots Foundation to benefit homeless shelter programs throughout the region.” Each runner will have to raise at least $5,000.
It’s a worthy endeavor. Good luck to everyone that participates.