The Boston Athletic Association (BAA) has announced that Bank of America will be the presenting partner of the Boston Marathon beginning in 2024.
A BAA release added… ‘The world’s oldest annual and most historic marathon has teamed up with one of the world’s leading financial institutions on a decade-long agreement, which will extend far beyond the finish line of the annual Patriots’ Day event.’
Financial services firm and the event’s principal sponsor, John Hancock, remains on board in 2023 and… ‘continues to ensure the stability of the world’s oldest annual marathon.’
In recognition of the Boston Marathon’s 127-year heritage, Bank of America has elected that its organization’s name will appear after the words Boston Marathon in the event’s new official title, beginning in 2024: the Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America.
“We embark on the next great era for running in Boston and around the world with Bank of America as our partner in all that we do, most notably the Boston Marathon,” said Jack Fleming, President and CEO of BAA.
“With alignment in values and commitment to both communities and leadership, we’ll work together to enhance one of the world’s great participatory sporting events. Bank of America will partner with us at every stage to grow, broaden and innovate new pathways in running.”
David Tyrie, Chief Digital Officer and Chief Marketing Officer for Bank of America, said “We are privileged and honoured to partner with the B.A.A on this next leg of the journey for the historic Boston Marathon.
“Through this partnership, we will broaden our ability to help communities around the world thrive, creating positive impact for small businesses, charities, runners, and teammates on race weekend and throughout the year.”
Mayor Michelle Wu added “The Boston Marathon is one of the most iconic and beloved events our City holds all year, bringing tens of thousands of people together to enjoy Boston.
“We as a city are grateful to John Hancock for their many years of support, and look forward to building a new partnership with Bank of America and the Boston Athletic Association to elevate this historic event and welcome more people into our community.”
Bank of America is also the title sponsor of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, where visitors reportedly contribute more than US$386 million to local economy, providing the equivalent of more than 2,800 jobs at a time of year when tourism in the city would otherwise experience a seasonal decline.
In addition to the economic impact, runners make a charitable impact, totalling more than US$246 million from 148,000 runners since 2002 going directly to non-profits in Chicago, across the US and around the world.
‘Together, the B.A.A. and Bank of America will strive to make running more accessible and broaden its impact. Bank of America is committed to growing the Boston Marathon’s non-profit, engagement and philanthropic initiatives, and extending the event’s presence through the hundreds of qualifying races in the bank’s nearly 100 markets across United States and communities around the world.’
The BAA’s Jack Fleming added, “Together, the B.A.A. and Bank of America will keep Boston front and centre to ensure the Marathon remains a source of pride and passion for so many. Through this new partnership with Bank of America, we will expand social, economic and inclusive programs for local residents, businesses, neighbourhoods and communities.”
In celebration of the announcement, City of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Bank of America, and Boston Athletic Association gathered at Bank of America’s office at 100 Federal Street in Boston for a ceremonial start to the partnership.
