Despite around 260 people being wounded and three people losing their lives in the 2013 Boston bombing, the Boston Marathon has remained a special and powerful event in years since.

Connie, a woman who watched the Boston Marathon this year and was aware of the previous tragedy said, “I just feel so proud of our country. It’s different… but there’s also a sense of unity like, wow, we’re still here celebrating this marathon and nothing will stop us.”

Amid the jubilant atmosphere of the marathon’s jam-packed streets, the ecstatic smile of Rachel on Boylston Street, a proud mother whose daughter was participating in the marathon, could not be missed. Rachel and her husband, Steve, warmly confessed, “We just can’t stop smiling, we’re just so proud of our little girl.”

Steve, also commented on the race, saying, “The variety of ages [of those who participate in and attend the marathon] just amazes me!”

Although the competitive runners from all across the globe with record scores are regarded as heroes, many argue that the real champions were those who make other statements. One man ran the entire 26.2-mile race in his army uniform and combat boots, as he triumphantly raised the American flag towards the warm April sky. Another young boy, followed by a small group in matching green shirts, threaded his way through the crowded streets and past me to catch a glimpse of his sponsor running by. The young boy’s mother informed the surrounding crowd that, “He’s looking for a runner whose sponsoring him through Boston Children’s. He’s been our close friend and Tray’s sponsor for over four years.” The passionate crowd, at a different section near Boylston Street, clapped and shouted encouragements, as a blind man accompanied by an escort raced by.

The most notable and notorious aspect of the Boston marathon, Heartbreak Hill, forces runners up a sharp ninety-foot elevation that presents grueling pain for many. Joe, a twenty- nine-year-old runner who held a 3:59 time for the marathon, stated that, “It was very difficult, but the entire time I was thinking about my wife. She was 35 kilometers away from the hill. My mind was there to help me reach her.”

The Boston Marathon is a race to remember for thousands of people and proves that nothing in life is ever impossible. Many express that once they push themselves to do the Boston Marathon, they feel they have the power to do anything.