GRANITE GLORY Tribute to the communities, champions and athletes who have made the race one of the most famous in the world, the Boston Marathon Centennial Monument has been created as part of the celebration activities to commemorate the 100th Running of the marathon. Designed by Landscape Architect Mark Flannery, ASLA, the monument lies near the finish line in the northwest corner of Copley Square Park. The Boston Parks Commission and Boston Art Commission gave permission for the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) and John Hancock Financial Services, principal sponsor for the Boston Marathon, to place the granite monument. The medallion centerpiece which measures 15-feet in diameter lies flush to the ground, is surrounded by four granite bollards, and consists of a concentric ring around a sculpted center. It includes the names of all male and female champions from the open, masters and wheelchair divisions since the inaugural Boston Marathon in 1897. Space remains for the names of future years' champions. At the center of the medallion is an elevation profile and planometric of the marathon race course. The medallion is encircled by a laurel wreath, the traditional symbol of victory. "[While] contributing to the City of Boston's collection of public art, the monument is an inspiration for all who admire it," states Commissioner Bruce Rossley, of the Boston Art Commission. "The monument adds to the lasting legacy of the 100th Boston Marathon and reinforces this year's race as a milestone event in the history of sports/concludes B.A.A. Race Director Guy Morse. Flannery designed and supervised all construction of the permanent monument to the world's oldest, continuing foot race. He enthuses, "It's fantastic. It takes my vision and turns it into a reality." And it gives runners all over the world, "a sense of place, a home that celebrates the Boston Marathon and offers tribute to all the winners." EIGHT COLORS OF GRANITE WERE USED IN THE CREATION OF THE MAP, REPRESENTING EACH OF THE EIGHT CITIES AND TOWNS ALONG THE HISTORIC 26.2-MILE ROUTE FROM HOPKINTON TO BOSTON. Photo by Mark C. Flannery.