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BAA Announces Security Changes For Boston Marathon Runners

BOSTON (CBS) --- The Boston Athletic Association has announced new rules for runners in this year's Boston Marathon.

Among the new rules, a no bag policy has been put into place, bandit runners will not be allowed on the course, bibs must be visible at all times, costumes may not cover the faces of runners, large flags are not allowed and any clothing left in Hopkinton will be donated to charity.

Runners will be able to check gear at the Boston Common. Once the race is completed. The B.A.A. will offer the opportunity to exit the secure finish area at three locations prior to Arlington Street.

The BAA says all runners may be subject to random security screens.

Allowable items for official participants:

  • Fanny pack (no larger than 5 inches x 15 inches x 5 inches) to carry food, nutritional products, medicine, identification, cell phone, home/hotel key or other similar and necessary small items
  • Standard manufactured "fuel belt" (bottles must be one liter or smaller)
  • The use of headphones is discouraged, but permitted

Additional layers of clothing may be worn on B.A.A. shuttle buses and in Hopkinton for warmth before the race. Clothing that will not be worn during the race must be discarded in Hopkinton and will be donated to a local charitable organization.

Prohibited items for official participants:

    • Backpacks, any similar item carried over the shoulder, or handbags of any size
    • Glass containers
    • Any container capable of carrying more than 1 liter of liquid
    • Strollers, including baby strollers
    • Suitcases & rolling bags
    • Personal hydration system products (such as CamelBak®, Thor®, etc)
    • Weight vests or any sort of vest with pockets (Note: lightweight running vests are allowable)
    • Costumes covering the face or any non-form fitting, bulky outfits extending beyond the perimeter of the body
    • Props (including sporting equipment and military and fire/gear and signs or flags larger than 11 inches x 17 inches)
    • Any item larger than 5 inches x 15 inches x 5 inches

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