Competitors observe 30 second silence and pledge money to a fund for victims of the Boston attacks, amid heightened security.
Via: Peter Macdiarmid / Getty Images
LONDON – Competitors at the London Marathon paid tribute to victims of the Boston Marathon attack by observing a 30-second silence before the elite men's race and mass start at 10am.
Organisers at the race, the first event of its type to take place since the bombings in America that killed three people and wounded more than 180, handed out black ribbons to runners, enabling them to display a visible mark of their solidarity.
Geoff Wightman, the event commentator, announced over loudspeakers before the half-minute silence:
"Marathon-running is a global sport. It unites runners and supporters on every continent in pursuit of a common challenge and in the spirit of friendship and fellowship.
"This week the world marathon family was shocked and saddened by the events at the Boston Marathon. In a few moments a whistle will sound and we will join together in silence to remember our friends and colleagues for whom a day of joy turned into a day of sadness.
"Let us now show our respect and support for the victims of the tragedy in Boston."
Via: Peter Macdiarmid / Getty Images
Competitor Julia Clarke displays her black ribbon.
Via: @JuliaWallClarke
