Boston Marathon Kicks Off with Bruins Legend as Starter

Zdeno Chara leads the pack in this year's 26.2-mile race through the streets of Boston.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 3:41pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting runners racing through the streets of Boston, with Zdeno Chara's tall figure leading the pack.Boston Bruins legend Zdeno Chara fires the starting gun to kick off the 2026 Boston Marathon, adding star power and local pride to the historic race.Boston Today

The 2026 Boston Marathon got underway today with a special starter - Boston Bruins legend Zdeno Chara. The 6-foot-9 defenseman, who played for the Bruins for 14 seasons, fired the starting gun to kick off the men's professional wave. Chara will also be running in this year's race, looking to complete the iconic 26.2-mile course through the streets of Boston.

Why it matters

The Boston Marathon is one of the most prestigious annual running events in the world, drawing elite athletes and thousands of recreational runners to the streets of Boston each Patriots' Day. Chara's participation as both starter and competitor adds star power and local pride to the historic race.

The details

Chara, who stands at 6-foot-9, towered over the other runners as he fired the starting gun to kick off the men's professional wave. The 44-year-old former Bruins captain will be running in his first Boston Marathon this year, looking to complete the iconic course that winds through the streets of Boston and neighboring towns.

  • The 2026 Boston Marathon took place on Monday, April 20, 2026.
  • Chara fired the starting gun to begin the men's professional wave at approximately 10:00 a.m. local time.

The players

Zdeno Chara

A former captain of the Boston Bruins who played for the NHL team for 14 seasons from 2006 to 2020. Chara is now running in his first Boston Marathon.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's an honor to be a part of this historic race in my adopted hometown. I'm excited to take on the challenge and run alongside so many amazing athletes.”

— Zdeno Chara

What’s next

Runners will continue to cross the finish line in downtown Boston throughout the day, with the elite men's and women's champions expected to complete the course in around 2 hours and 10 minutes.

The takeaway

Chara's participation as both starter and competitor adds a touch of local celebrity to the 2026 Boston Marathon, further cementing the race's status as one of the most iconic annual sporting events in New England.