In Wake Of Boston Terror, London Reacts

Race Results Weekly also provides broader updates on next weekend’s event.

(c) 2013 Race Results Weekly, all rights reserved. Used with permission.

LONDON — Here is the latest news on Sunday’s Virgin London Marathon:

Statement From Chief Executive Nic Bitel

“The London Marathon is shocked and deeply saddened by the news from Boston and the terrible atrocity that happened at the Boston Marathon. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected and their families and friends. It’s an awful day for Boston, but also for the family of athletics.”

Period Of Silence Planned

There will be a period of silence lasting 30 seconds prior to the start of the elite men’s and mass races as a gesture of solidarity with the Boston Marathon and the victims of Monday’s horrific bombing in Boston. Also, race organizers will encourage runners to wear black ribbons on their racing kit.

“We want to show our support for our friends and colleagues in Boston at this difficult time for the global running community,” race director Hugh Brasher said in a statement.

Bedford To Be Official Starter

Former race director Dave Bedford will be the official starter. Bedford, who set the world record for 10,000m in 1973, was race director for 19 years until 2012, when Hugh Brasher took over. He remains involved in the race in recruiting the professional athletes.

Revised Entry Lists Posted

The latest entry lists of top athletes have been posted as a special link. http://lrn.london-marathon.com/2013-virgin-london-marathon-entry-lists/

Ross Out With Hip Injury

Scotland’s Freya Ross, whose maiden name is Freya Murray, has been forced to withdraw from the race with a hip injury. Ross, 29, who competed in last summer’s Olympic Marathon as a replacement for the injured Paula Radcliffe, made her marathon debut here last year in 2:28:10 (13th).

“I’m really disappointed I’ve had to withdraw,” Ross said in a statement.”Training had been going well for the last few weeks and I was looking forward to running in London. The injury problem started last Monday with a niggle in my right hip. It seemed insignificant and I didn’t think it would affect me. However, over the next few days it worsened and I now can’t run pain free.”

Ross, who lives in Boulder, Colo., is coached by former world record holder Steve Jones.