Boston Marathon Open to Women

The Boston Athletic Association broke a 76 year tradition Wednesday when it announced that women would be allowed to run in the 1972 Boston Marathon on Patriot's Day.

"We are delighted we can do this at this time," declared Will Cloney. President of the BAA and director of the 26 mile, 385 yard run. "We have been working for more than a year to unravel some of the red tape that has prevented women from running long distance races in the past."

Sara Berman, who has run in the race from Hopkington to Boston for the past three years with her husband Larry, was on hand at the announcement and commented. "The girls who will complete are all trained athletes, serious competitors who are anxious to have their ability recognized."