Over the 20 years, the number of volunteers has risen to more than 500, and they helped give the marathon the reputation it has among runners today, Mr. Ryan said. Things have changed from the first days. Long gone are the years when the post-race meal consisted of chowder in plastic bowls and a keg of beer, Mr. Ryan said. Now, the celebrations take place where people can sit down and enjoy themselves, Mr. Ryan said. Each year we try to make little improvements, buff things up a little bit.
Runners sprint toward the finish line at the half-marathon.
Bundled against the cold, bystanders cheer on the runners.