In the aftermath of the explosions at the Boston Marathon on Monday that resulted in three deaths and more than 100 hospitalizations, officials in Madison are planning to increase security measures at an upcoming local race.
The Crazylegs Classic run, an eight kilometer race from Capitol Square to Camp Randall Stadium, will likely see an increased security presence, University of Wisconsin Police Department spokesperson Marc Lovicott said.
The organizers of the race and the city and campus police departments are still discussing exactly what the changes will look like, he said. The race is set to take place on Saturday, April 27, starting at 10 a.m.
Lovicott said he expects many extra police officers and security personnel will be on hand at the event. Canines specializing in bomb sniffing may also be brought in as an added precaution, adding this would mark a departure from typical security protocol at the event.
Lovicott said law enforcement might take other tactics to enhance security at the event as well, but they are still assessing the need for further security measures.
Whether the events in Boston will discourage people from attending the race is not clear, Justin Doherty, Athletic Department spokesperson, said. Normally, the race draws around 20,000 participants and spectators, he added.
“There is no evidence that Boston will have an effect on attendance,” Doherty said. “We’ll have to see.”
As of today, UW Athletics has not had any participants calling with concerns or cancelling their registration for the event, he said.
Lovicott added the bombings on Monday also changed the university’s perspective on other events that draw large crowds. Fans can also expect to see increased security at the spring football game on Saturday, he said.
UWPD and law enforcement agencies are trained to handle the large special events that happen on campus all the time, Lovicott said.
“We are used to big, high-profile events,” Lovicott said. “I am confident [the race] will still be safe.”
The university is working to do everything possible to maintain safe and enjoyable environments for the events they host, according to a statement from UW Athletics.
Athletics will update the public regarding any changes to the logistical details of race day so participants and spectators can plan accordingly, Doherty said.