WBZ-TV, John Hancock Extend Boston Marathon Partnership Through 2016

BOSTON (CBS) - John Hancock and WBZ-TV announced Monday that they have extended their partnership on the exclusive broadcast of the Boston Marathon though 2016.

WBZ-TV has been carrying the Boston Athletic Association's world-class Boston Marathon in its entirety for 30-years.

John Hancock Financial is also the principal sponsor of the marathon.

"For nearly three decades, John Hancock has been an invaluable partner to the Boston Marathon not only through their financial commitment but also through their vision and appreciation for this premier sporting event, what it means to our community, and what it means to the world," Mark Lund, President and General Manager of WBZ-TV, said in a statement.

"WBZ-TV is thrilled to continue our partnership with John Hancock and present for years to come the Boston Marathon in a manner that captures the immediate excitement of the race as well as its legacy."

This year's 117th running of the Boston Marathon will be Monday, April 15.

CBSBoston.com will provide live coverage to viewers within New England who want to watch the elite race live online.

WBZ-TV's start-to-finish coverage will be broadcast in HD for the first time this year.

If you miss it, WBZ's sister-station myTV38 will rebroadcast the elite races at 8 p.m. Marathon Monday.