Stop for assistance and direction at one of the 26 Red Cross aid stations along the course. Sweep buses pick up runners at every Red Cross station with drop-off at the finish area medical tent. Aid stations along the course close at staggered times during the day. Finish area facilities officially close six hours after the last runner crosses the start line in Hopkinton. (About 6:00 p.m.) Boston Marathon Medical Race Information What do I do if I cannot complete the Boston Marathon after I have started?