Thousands Take Part In 34th Annual Broad Street Run
By Mike Dougherty, Syma Chowdhry
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The 34th annual Broad Street Run took place on Sunday.
Tens of thousands turned out for the 10-mile race, the biggest of its kind in the country, and it went as well as organizers had hoped. (View Photos)
The city of Boston was on the mind of everyone at the event. Many people wore red socks to honor "Beantown" and "Sweet Caroline" played throughout the start of the race. Just before the horn sounded to start the race, Mayor Michael Nutter addressed the crowd and he talked about a conversation he had with Boston Mayor Thomas Menino.
"There has been an energy out here unlike anything we've seen in recent times that's going to carry over into our marathon," said Nutter.
Nutter told him that Philadelphia runs with Boston today and everyday.
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"We're promoting the possibility of people giving to One Fund Boston to support those in need after the tragedy," said Dan Hilferty, president and CEO of Independence Blue Cross.
In the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings, security at the race was tighter than ever. Commissioner Charles Ramsey wouldn't say how many police officers were working the race, but it was clear to anyone in attendance that there certainly wasn't a shortage. Canine units, S.W.A.T. teams, and bike patrol all helped ease fears anyone might have had.
"Obviously we have a very heavy police presence both uniform and plain clothes," said Commissioner Ramsey.
Another safety measure included banning backpacks and coolers; runners had to use clear plastic bags.
"We are not allowed anything other than this (plastic bag). We have to use clear bags which were given to us," said Judy Trichon, a participant of the race. She was born in Boston and raised in Philadelphia and says it's a great day to participate in an event like this.
"It's not hot, it's not too cold; it's a beautiful day for a run," she explained.
There were no incidents reported during the race.
