Community Corner

Area Boston Marathon Runner Wants Justice After Attack

Anthony Catalano Jr. ran in the Boston Marathon on Monday and was about 6 blocks from the finish line when 2 explosions tore through the area, killing 3 people and injuring more than 130 others.

Anthony Catalano Jr. was ready to celebrate.

The 24-year-old from Orland Park, who ran for a seat on the Community Consolidated High School District 230 board this month, had just completed the Boston Marathon in three hours, 9 minutes and 43 seconds. He was just getting back to the Boston International Hostel for a brief rest and regroup. Catalano didn’t have time to eat and replenish what he had just burned off during the run when he heard the explosions.

READ: Go to Back Bay Patch for Updates From the Boston Area

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“In the distance I heard something, but I never before would’ve considered that possibility,” said Catalano, a former Carl Sandburg High School cross-country runner. “I didn’t believe it, and then saw pictures on the news.”

The world’s oldest marathon has been a cause for celebration since it began in 1897. Runners and their supporters travel from around the globe to compete. An after party was scheduled at the House of Blues following the conclusion of Monday’s race.

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As of Monday night, three people are reported dead and over 130 injured after two explosive devices were blown up at the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 15.

READ: Local Yankee Runners Not Hurt in Boston Marathon Explosions

“We were going to go out, have a good time and celebrate,” Catalano said. “Now there is this eerie feeling. It reminds me of 9/11. Everyone glued to TVs. Calling and texting loved ones to make sure they are OK. Up until it happened, people were congratulating me on my time. Then everyone was asking me if I was OK, which I am very grateful for.”

Once back at the hostel, and after hostel staff made security checks, Catalano wasn’t sure what to do next. He still hadn’t eaten after running for over three straight hours. Several media reports said many of the casualties were spectators.

“Not too long ago, when I was near the finish line, those people there were waving to me as I passed,” Catalano said, about spectators near the explosions. “I was saddened and just felt sick. I couldn’t even think of food.”

Before 5 p.m., Catalano ventured back outside near the hostel and saw police and paramedics, squad cars and ambulances as far as he could see. Sirens blared by as he spoke on the phone with Patch.

READ: 2 Oak Forest Runners Half-Mile From Finish Before Boston Marathon Attack

“I hope whoever is behind this is brought to justice,” Catalano said. “It’s just sad something like this could happen on a day that has always been festive. It really changes the perspective. Running is an individual sport. You train against yourself. You compete against yourself. But you do get help from the people cheering you on as you run by. I can’t imagine how marathons will be in the future. How do you prepare for these things?”

Boston Marathon Attack Coverage From East Coast Patch Sites:

  • Go to Back Bay Patch for Updates From the Boston Area
  • Scores Injured by Explosion at Boston Marathon Finish Line 
  • Newtown Runners Reportedly 'Safe' Following Boston Tragedy
  • Witness: 'All of a Sudden Everyone Turned Around and Was Running in the Opposite Direction'
  • PHOTOS: Explosions at Boston Marathon
  • Amazing Story of a Nurse Tending to Army Vet When Bomb Went Off

 

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