UPDATE: Mystery Solved – #BostonStrong Shoveler Identified

Monica Sanchez | January 28, 2015
DONATE
Font Size

According to WCVB, the mystery man who took it upon himself to shovel the Boston Marathon finish line amidst Winter Storm Juno has been identified.

The photo capturing the scene soon went viral and the Boston Police Department took to social media to find the man responsible.

On Twitter, the Back Bay Social Club identified the #BostonStrong shoveler as one of their very own, a local bartender named Chris Laudani, who explained to Boston Magazine his motive behind the gesture: 

“I only did it to send a message. I love the Boston Marathon and everything it stands for. The finish line doesn’t deserve to be covered in snow.”

The Marathon continues to be a source of great pride for not only local Bostonians, but people across the nation. 

"We have continually witnessed an outpouring of support for this great event and the city, demonstrating just how unique and special this race really is and all for which it stands," said Tom Grilk, executive director of the Boston Athletic Association. 

"For someone to brave the winter blizzard to clear our finish line for us is yet another statement as to what our event means not only to runners but also to Americans."

The photo was taken by Philip Hillman from a window at the Charlesmark Hotel on Boylston Street.

He told WCVB, “It just spoke to me for that second. I didn't realize it was going to sweep the world.”

"That little piece of Boylston Street is sacred ground for everyone. No storm, no terrorist is going to stop this city."

Talk about inspirational. 

donate