Yesterday, on Patriots Day all eyes were on Boston as over 35,000 participants and an estimated one million spectators (a record crowd) gathered again for the 2014 Boston Marathon. Millions more of us were there in spirit. There were new stories and new heroes. It was a celebration of life, perseverance, resolve and determination. It is amazing how a simple sporting event can galvanize an entire country and inspire us to overcome adversity. Boston Strong - a testimony to the power of the human spirit.
I would like to briefly take this opportunity to congratulate and show my admiration for all who came to Boston yesterday. You are brave, you are strong, you are resilient and you did not let a tragedy of the past prevent you from enjoying this most memorable event. Although only one runner crossed the finish line first, there were no losers or also-rans on this day. Everyone who ran or watched this event was a winner! Congratulations!