After a ‘third-to-last place’ finish, Ben Hayes is running Boston again

"This year, I need to get the real experience."

Ben Hayes is running the 2024 Boston Marathon.

March 29, 2024

1 minute to read

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon runners share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston. If you’re running the marathon, you can share your story here.

Name: Ben Hayes
Age: 29
From: Boston

I’m running this year for two reasons. First, in honor of my grandpa, who passed away from cancer last March. He was an athlete his whole life.

Second, redemption for last year. I ran the Boston Marathon last year, but suffered an achilles tear 10 weeks before the race. The marathon ended up being my first run after the injury.

I limped most of the race and finished in third-to-last place (8:36:00), while the finish line stands were being taken down. A far cry from my under four-hour time goal. This year, I need to get the real experience.

Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.