Boston Athletic Association Begins #PassTheBaton Challenge

Campaign to celebrate and spread the altruism that bonds sport, country, community.

BOSTON – The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) today announced a new component to its Year of Service campaign for the 2018 Boston Marathon, entitled #PassTheBaton. In celebrating the altruism that bonds sport, country, and community, the #PassTheBaton campaign will showcase acts of service both near and far. As a nod to the batons that were passed along during the 1918 Military Relay, the B.A.A. encourages its audiences to recognize acts of service, and “pass the baton” on to others to do the same.

The #PassTheBaton social component is the latest addition to the B.A.A. Year of Service theme. In recent months, the B.A.A. has recognized veterans, members of public service agencies, and race volunteers. Now, runners and fans are encouraged to thank members of their community who have served by using #PassTheBaton in their social media posts.

The 2018 Boston Marathon will be the 100th anniversary of the 1918 military relay, when teams ran along the course. It’s also the five year anniversary of the tragic events of April 15, 2013, and the collective resilience that followed.

The B.A.A. Year of Service also recognizes the selfless contributions of race volunteers, many of whom are runners themselves. To help participants express their gratitude, every race entrant will receive two thank you cards in their Runner Passport to pass along to someone who is serving others.

The 122nd Boston Marathon will be run on April 16, 2018, and is supported for the 33rd consecutive year by John Hancock.