In solidarity with Boston, UMass hosts “Cross the Finish Line”

In an act of solidarity with the Boston Marathon runners, the Football team at UMass Amherst invited all those who were unable to complete the marathon to “Cross the Finish Line” during halftime at the 2013 Spring Football Game on Saturday, April 20.

The finish line was set-up at the 50-yard line, which the runners crossed after taking a lap of the field together. Their names were shown on the stadium’s video board to commemorate their achievements, and they received a gift from the UMass program upon crossing the finish line and a standing ovation from the crowds who came to watch the game.

“It was truly just an outstandingly inspirational event. People really seemed to enjoy it. There was a lot of positive response on the field and otherwise. I received many emails from people saying that even though they could not come, they were just so happy that UMass was offering this opportunity for the runners to finish,” said Joann Chauvin, assistant to the Football Office at UMass.

UMass also participated in honoring the runners who were injured or died during the Boston bombing.

Four football team members, including the captain, wore name plates and signs on the back of their helmets to pay tribute to those who were attacked or killed in Boston.

The event created a sense of consideration and harmony among the spectators of the game.  “Working at UMass, it was the most heartwarming event I have ever been a part of,” Chauvin said. “People were crying and runners were crying as they crossed the finish line. Coaches and people around were crying; it was super emotional. I know for the runners that it was a cathartic experience for them to be able to finish something they had started.”

The UMass football team and the campus overall, were honored to extend their condolences to the Boston victims and provide the marathoners physical and emotional space to share their grief. “It was quite nice, I think, because of the overall pride that the football department felt in being able to offer even a few moments of comfort to the runners,” said Chauvin.