WBZ Rebroadcasts Boston Marathon During Fundraiser

This past Sunday, April 19, was Patriot’s Day in Boston, an annual event commemorating the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the first battles of the American Revolutionary War.

And with the exception of this year, Patriot’s Day was always the day Boston held the Boston Marathon, an event that attracts 500,000 spectators.

But with no Boston Marathon, CBS O&O WBZ and the Boston Athletic Association held an all-day fundraiser on Monday, April 20, to help raise money and awareness for the Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund.

A Patriots’ Day of Giving rallied people in their homes with special Boston Marathon programming, including a rebroadcast of the 2014 and 2018 races as well as an airing of BOSTON: The Documentary, the definitive history of the race.

“I am grateful to WBZ-TV for making this year’s Patriots Day into a day of giving,” said Governor Charlie Baker.

“Patriots Day is a special day, and while this year is going to be very different, I know that the people of our state will continue to step up so that we can come through this crisis stronger than ever before.”

Nearly $3000,000 was raised to support the Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund, which helps essential frontline workers and vulnerable populations across the state facing homelessness, food insecurity and loss of critical services as a result of the COVID-19 public health crisis.

Special guests appeared throughout the day offering messages of hope and inspiration.

“With the race postponed and the need for everyone to stay home, this Patriots Day will have a very different feel,” said Mark Lund, WBZ’s general manager.

“I hope you will join us, as we come together to support those in need. Be safe, be well and stay inside!”

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