PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Runners turned out in the thousands to take part in the 40th annual Broad Street Run, the first in-person version of the event since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Usually around 40,000 runners participate in the Broad Street Run. This year, things were a lot smaller with about 12,000 people in person and a little more than 5,000 people participating virtually. But Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott-Lovell said any race in person is a good race right now.
"I think it's great to be back on Broad Street," she said. "It's time for us to begin to think about how we hold large-scale events like this in a safe way."
Runner Alan Roberts said despite crowds being encouraged to stay at home instead of cheering in person, and runners having to wear masks at the beginning and end, he's okay with that because he's happy to be doing it once again in person.
"[It's] just a great way to see the city of Philadelphia," he said. "Not everybody gets to pay attention. They're too busy driving around, so taking the time to just slow down and really appreciate the city."
In addition to COVID-19 precautions, runners had to brave the rain. Construction also forced a route change. But Chrissy Rose said she wouldn't have it any other way.
"This is my 25th time running," she said. "I remember when there were 3,000 people and we finished in FDR Park. I've been in pouring rain. I've been in super hot conditions. It's just great and the energy is great."
Matt Mueller of Lansdale was happy to be out as well, but missed some of the atmosphere the large crowds brought. "It was good when you had those little spurts when people were out on the sides, but I do miss the roar of the crowd, especially when you get into South Philly," he admitted.
The winner of the race was an Elkins Park man with a time of 46:13.