Boston Marathon street banners set for race weekend

500 banners will be featured along the Boston Marathon course from Hopkinton to Boylston Street.

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Mayor Martin J. Walsh and reigning Boston Marathon women’s champion Caroline Rotich joined four-time Boston Marathon champion Bill Rodgers to reveal the 2016 Boston Marathon street banners that will be featured along the 26.2 mile course.

Sponsor John Hancock has chosen "endurance" as the theme for this year's race. Banners will feature runners, volunteers, fans and some elite athletes with key words such as: gratitude, passion, pride, dedication, inspired, drive, psyched, believe, heart, strength, glory and spirit.

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“‘'Endurance' embodies the spirit of not only our runners, but the entire City of Boston," Mayor Walsh said in a release. “The Marathon is a symbol of hope and joy; and now, more than ever, of strength and resilience. I thank John Hancock for their dedication and partnership to making this day a success in our city.”

Runners and fans are encouraged to make their own banners online before 26 winners are selected to be featured on the course from Hopkinton to Boylston Street.

The 2016 Boston Marathon will be run on April 18.