Live insights at the Boston Marathon
Discover the timing system used at the Boston Marathon and learn how technology enhances this historic event experience.
mylaps.comHere’s the latest on tracking Boston Marathon runners.
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The primary way to follow runners is through the official Boston Marathon app from the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.). It offers live tracking, pace, and estimated finish times, and lets you search by name or bib number to follow specific runners. This is the most reliable method and is updated in real time on race day.[3][5]
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The B.A.A. website also provides a web-based tracking section where you can look up participants by name or bib number and receive updates at various mile markers, with finish information after the race ends. If you’re missing push notifications, this web tracker is a solid alternative.[5][10][3]
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Event timing and tracking systems are often supplied by the official timing partner (e.g., RFID-based Bib Tracking), and apps typically pull data from these systems to provide live progress, splits, and finish times. This explains why the app and website tend to be the most accurate sources during the race.[2][10]
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For a broader set of options, third-party trackers and outlets regularly publish guidance on following runners for major race days, including tips on creating a watch list and using course maps. If you want multiple viewpoints, you can check sources like FloTrack or Tom’s Guide for practical how-to steps that align with the latest app updates.[7][8]
Recommendation:
- If you’re in Buffalo and want real-time updates, start with the official B.A.A. Racing App and, as a fallback, use the B.A.A. tracking page on their site to follow your runner(s) by name or bib number.[10][3][5]
Illustration: A typical setup to follow a runner
- Open the B.A.A. Racing App
- Enter the runner’s name or bib number
- Save to your watch list and enable alerts for mile markers or pace
- Cross-check with the course map for context along the route
If you’d like, I can pull the current top tracking tips from recent articles and tailor a quick setup guide for your preferred device (iPhone or Android).[3][5]