Boston Athletic Association and Bank of America pledge to expand their support of the next generation of runners in Boston and beyond
BOSTON—The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) in partnership with Bank of America, today announced that an anticipated $500 million will benefit mission aligned non-profit organizations over the next decade. The vast majority of these funds will come from the incredible fundraising efforts of those participants in the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program.
In addition, the group also committed to welcoming 10,000 new runners into the sport in the next decade through B.A.A. community programming and the support of other local organizations and events.
To reflect this commitment and moving forward together on the occasion of Global Running Day, the B.A.A. also unveiled a new emblem for the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America. The Boston Marathon’s iconic unicorn symbol has evolved into a forward-facing, athletic unicorn symbolizing the B.A.A.’s running future.
“Between our mass participatory events and our support of philanthropic organizations, we aim to spearhead continued growth and enthusiasm around the sport of running while supporting those around us,” said Jack Fleming, B.A.A. President and CEO. “The B.A.A. and Bank of America are invested in running together in Boston and beyond.”
Through renewed focus on fundraising efforts – the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program being at the heart of this – and growth in the sport at all levels –from grassroots through professional ranks – the pledge expands the potential impact the B.A.A. and the Boston Marathon can have on helping people start their healthy lifestyle journey.
“As we continue to evolve as an organization, the new emblem symbolizes this forward movement with our partners and reinforces our dedication to our mission of promoting healthy lifestyles for generations to come,” said Fleming. “We are fortunate to be able to provide a platform for so many incredible participants and non-profit organizations to raise life-changing funds for the community every year. The power of our collective work is how we can maximize our reach in the years ahead.”
In honor of Global Running Day and the launch of the new logo, the B.A.A. will be at the Boylston Street finish line from noon-2:00 p.m. and 4:00-6:00 p.m. celebrating the occasion with fun photo-ops and exclusive new logo giveaways.
Additionally, the Boston Marathon finish line has been re-painted to feature the updated Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America logo. Elements of the new logo include:
- Facing forward, the emblem eyes the future and many miles ahead.
- Spike’s jawline is enhanced, demonstrating the athletic and gritty nature of Boston.
- With alert and focused eyes, Spike is determined to conquer the challenging Boston Marathon course.
- Pointing northeast, Spike’s horn represents the direction of the Marathon route on a compass from start to finish.
- The flowing mane shows swift movement on the pursuit of a healthy and active lifestyle – directly tied to the B.A.A.’s mission.
- The new base of the unicorn showcases two sides coming together, the merging of the B.A.A.’s history and future.
- Within Spike’s neck is a gap between two lines, symbolic of breaking the champion’s tape at the finish line.
- 13 points are on the mane, one for each decade of B.A.A. heritage.
The vertical (primary) and horizontal (secondary) versions of the new logo can be found here.
BOSTON 10K PRESENTED BY BRIGHAM AND WOMEN’S HOSPITAL
The next B.A.A. road race on the calendar is the Boston 10K presented by Brigham and Women’s Hospital on Sunday, June 23. Media interested in covering the 2024 Boston 10K may apply for credentials here.
ABOUT THE BOSTON ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (B.A.A.)
Established in 1887, the Boston Athletic Association is a non-profit organization with a mission of promoting a healthy lifestyle through sports, especially running. The B.A.A. manages the Boston Marathon, and supports comprehensive charity, youth, and year-round programming. The 129th Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America is scheduled to take place on Monday, April 21, 2025. The Boston Marathon is part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, along with international marathons in Tokyo, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York City. For more information on the B.A.A., please visit www.baa.org.