Nancy Smith Celebrates 25th Boston Marathon with Purpose and Passion

For most people, running one marathon is a major accomplishment. But for Nancy Smith, it’s become a yearly tradition with a purpose far greater than medals or finish lines. This year, she completed her 25th consecutive Boston Marathon, joining an elite group of runners recognized by the Boston Athletic Association’s Quarter Century Club.

Smith’s journey to this point began in her early 40s when qualifying for the Boston Marathon became a personal goal. Since Boston is the only major marathon in the world that requires a qualifying time, earning a spot in the race is no small feat. Smith not only qualified—she kept going. One year turned into five, then ten, then twenty-five.

“I never expected to be still doing this,” Smith said. “But I love it, and it’s become part of who I am.”

Each year, Smith runs for Dana-Farber’s Innovative Cancer Research Team, a charity group dedicated to raising funds for cutting-edge cancer research. This year marked her 10th year with the team, during which she has raised more than $76,000. Every dollar she raises goes directly to research that helps detect cancer earlier and improve treatment outcomes.

She runs in memory of Brooke Mulford, a young girl who lost her battle with neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer. “She was a fighter,” Smith said. “And it means a lot to her family that I continue running in her honor.”

Out of more than 26,000 runners at the 2024 Boston Marathon, Smith stood out not just for her milestone but also for her dedication to a cause. Her bib number—16,972—placed her in the second wave of runners, a perk of her Quarter Century Club status. Runners are released in four staggered waves based on their qualifying times and affiliations.

The Boston Marathon course starts in Hopkinton, MA, and winds 26.2 miles through small towns and cheering crowds before ending in downtown Boston. “There are spectators the whole way,” Smith said, adding that area college students provide a big morale boost. “It’s such a high-energy, supportive atmosphere.”

For Smith, training begins three to four months in advance. She logs dozens of miles each week near her home, often running loops around the fairgrounds. “It can feel a little repetitive,” she admitted. “Sometimes I feel like a hamster on a wheel.” But her commitment keeps her going—even on the quiet, solo runs.

To keep things fun, she brings dog treats for neighborhood pets and takes time to chat with anyone she passes. “It breaks up the run and makes it feel more personal,” she said.

The Boston Marathon is more than just a race—it’s a cultural event. Participants attend a large expo to pick up their bibs, enjoy pre-race pasta dinners, and take part in community events around the city. This year, Smith’s adult daughter joined her for the trip. They toured Boston’s Public Garden, rode the swan boats, and dined together before the big day.

While Boston is full of energy and celebration, Smith always takes time to visit the two memorial sites honoring victims of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. “I was there that year,” she said quietly. “Now, I always stop and pay my respects.”

After 25 years, Smith has witnessed the evolution of the race—and the medals. “The early ones were really simple,” she said with a laugh. “Now they’re beautifully designed, with colorful satin ribbons.” This year’s gold-accented medal was especially meaningful.

Despite all she’s accomplished, Smith is already thinking about the next race. “I do plan to run again next year,” she said. “Why stop now?”

Her advice to others? Set a goal, no matter how big or small, and take it one step—or one mile—at a time. “You don’t have to run marathons. Just pick something meaningful and go after it.”

Smith’s journey reminds us that personal goals can have a powerful impact—not just on the individual but on the lives of others. Through her miles, she’s raised hope, awareness, and vital funding that may one day help save lives.