Boston Marathon's Invitational Mile Celebrates Running Community

Youth, high school, and professional runners compete on Boylston Street ahead of the iconic race.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:38am

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An abstract, energetic painting with vibrant brushstrokes in neon shades of blue, green, and orange, capturing the dynamic movement and excitement of runners competing in the Boston Marathon Invitational Mile.The electric atmosphere and community spirit of the Boston Marathon Invitational Mile sets the stage for the iconic race.Boston Today

The Boston Athletic Association's Invitational Mile kicked off the Boston Marathon weekend, featuring runners of all ages and skill levels competing on the iconic Boylston Street course. The event provided a taste of the electric atmosphere and community spirit that surrounds the world-famous marathon, with participants describing an energetic crowd and a focus on enjoyment over competition.

Why it matters

The Invitational Mile is an important precursor to the Boston Marathon, introducing young athletes to the thrill of running in the historic event and allowing the local running community to come together in celebration of the sport. As the marathon evolves to attract a younger, more fashion-conscious audience, the Invitational Mile maintains the tradition and community spirit that has defined the iconic race for decades.

The details

The Invitational Mile featured youth, high school, and professional runners competing on the Boylston Street course, just days before the start of the Boston Marathon. Participants described an electric atmosphere, with large crowds lining the streets and cheering throughout the event. For many young athletes, the race offered a first taste of the Boston Marathon experience, with runners like Sammie McMorrow of Natick High School and Lydia Beaudoin emphasizing the fun and excitement of the day. The event has grown to include international participants, like Fadoua Lelfasse from Morocco, who planned to carry a flag to honor her family during the race.

  • The Invitational Mile kicked off the Boston Marathon weekend on April 19, 2026.
  • The Boston Marathon will be held on April 21, 2026, two days after the Invitational Mile.

The players

Sammie McMorrow

A runner from Natick High School who participated in the Invitational Mile.

Lydia Beaudoin

A runner from Natick High School who participated in the Invitational Mile.

Kathy Fleming

A Natick High School track coach and the wife of BAA CEO Jack Fleming.

Fadoua Lelfasse

A runner from Morocco who traveled to participate in the Invitational Mile.

Tony DaRocha

A longtime contributor to the Boston Marathon who has worked the event for 30 years.

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What they’re saying

“It's a local event, but it brings people from all over the world.”

— Kathy Fleming, Natick High School track coach

“I'm from Morocco. I have a flag. Maybe I'll put it on my head whenever I think about my daughter. I hope they are so proud of their mom.”

— Fadoua Lelfasse

What’s next

The 126th running of the Boston Marathon will take place on April 21, 2026, two days after the Invitational Mile.

The takeaway

The Invitational Mile serves as a celebratory kickoff to the Boston Marathon weekend, fostering a sense of community and tradition around the iconic race. By bringing together runners of all ages and skill levels, the event highlights the sport's appeal beyond just competition, focusing on the joy, excitement, and lifestyle of running.