Tens of thousands of people are lacing up to take part in the Vancouver Sun Run this Sunday, and while police will be present, organizers say security plans won’t change much in the wake of the Boston bombings.
“There is quite a bit of late registration coming in,” said Sun Run spokesman Jamie Pitblado. “I think that’s being led by people that want to come out and honour the victims of the Boston Marathon.”
With a surge of people signing up, the number of runners has spiked to more than 46,000, Pitblado said. That’s an increase of 1,600 people from last year.
After the tragedy in Boston that saw two men allegedly place bombs near the finish line of the famed marathon, killing three people and injuring scores, Pitblado said the number of security officers won’t be increased.
“I wouldn’t call it increased security, I might say it’s just going to be more aware, more vigilant security,” he said. “We have a very extensive security plan we’ve developed over the years.”
Runners have also not been deterred by the bombings and are embracing the chance to show support for the victims.
Some runners are planning to wear yellow and blue, the Boston Marathon colours, while the Sun Run announced it will donate $10 for every $60 late registration fee to victims of the bombings and their families, Pitblado said.
“We also have a little ceremony that we’re putting together right now for Sunday morning, just prior to the race,” he said.
The run isn’t the only major event happening in Metro Vancouver this weekend. Surrey’s 12th annual Vaisakhi parade takes place Saturday and organizers say it will attract thousands of spectators.
Surrey RCMP said they’re not changing their security plans because of the events in Boston.
“We have always had a very robust and structured plan in place to ensure the safety and security of the people who do come to this event,” said Sgt. Drew Grainger. “This year, nothing has changed, we are going to have a highly visible police presence.”
With a report from CTV British Columbia’s Maria Weisgarber
