So it goes in Hopkinton. This is the largest group of runners ever entered in this most venerable of all 26-milers. This year's Boston Marathon field is 9,362 strong, well above the previous record of 7,927 set in 1979. The growth can be attributed to a relaxation of qualifying standards. Relaxation, though, does not mean lassitude.
Determination is palpable.
Behind determination is a reservoir of energy. Such is always the case here, and yet this Boston seems especially energized. For better or worse, the 1990 Boston Marathon weekend is vibrating with potential, and Hopkinton is the nucleus. Down the road from the high school, in front of the First Congregational Church and a stone's throw from the starting line, a preacher is rallying any of the troops who'll listen to an Easter Monday sermon. A few verses espousing caution or forbearance might be of more use, at least to Boston's elite class of '90, who are huddled in the church basement a few yards away.