Philadelphia's streets were flooded with a sea of runners, as 40,000 participants laced up to reclaim a longstanding tradition in the 45th annual Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run. Sponsors and spectators alike watched as the 10-mile race, hosted by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation in partnership with Independence Blue Cross, hit a participation high watermark, the first since the shadow of the pandemic, according to city officials. Eager to watch and cheer, crowds gathered at the historic Navy Yard, the race's traditional finish line, which made a comeback after reconstruction had relocated the endpoint these past three years.

Indeed, everyone had something to cheer about, as new course records were set and inclusivity benchmarks were met, including an awards category for top non-binary finishers. "Independence Blue Cross is proud to have supported this race for 28 years. It has always represented our commitment to preventive health and fitness, one of our core values," IBX President and CEO Gregory E. Deavens told Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Susan Slawson also expressed her excitement: "I was thrilled to celebrate the return of 40,000 runners to Broad Street for Philadelphia’s iconic road race."

The race was not just a celebration of fitness and city pride but also an affirmation of athletes from all walks of life. Wheelchair racer Miguel Jimenez Vergara conquered the course in a swift 34:14, while runners Amber Zimmerman and Kevin McDonnell brought their A-game, as the first Americans to cross the finish line in the female and male categories, respectively. Not to be outdone, Winter Parts boldly shattered records, tearing through the course in just 52:39 to clinch the top spot in the non-binary category.

As the dust started to settle post-race, Slawson was quoted expressing gratitude for the efforts that made the event a success, "Thank you to all the staff and volunteers who made it possible, and congratulations to all of our 2024 runners!" noted city officials. The race, which was broadcast live on NBC10 and Telemundo62, not only symbolized a stride toward normalcy but also showcased the city's undying spirit. And let's just quickly nod to the proud Philadelphians Joe Maguire and Josh Fernandez, who sprinted seriously fast to become the First Philadelphians, proving this city’s got grit.