On Monday, several childhood friends of the late Martin Richard as well as former teachers and dedicated runners for the organization crossed the finish line for what will be the last BAA Boston Marathon for Team MR8, the squad of runners representing the foundation named for Martin.

This year’s team fielded 66 runners, including 12 who were childhood friends running for the first time after they became age eligible. They were led by Martin’s brother, Henry Richard, running his second Boston race.

After crossing the finish line, Nolan Cleary hugs Denise Richard, while his father, Bob Cleary, a long-time Team MR8 runner, gives a high-five to Jane Richard. Jack Burke is seen behind at right.

The friends received a fair amount of the spotlight locally and nationally for their tribute to their friend, who dreamed of running the race when he was young. All of them said that since he couldn’t run, they had decided to run for him. They were greeted at the finish line by Martin’s mom Denise and his sister, Jane. Martin’s dad, Bill, ran for party of the race as well, but was sidelined mid-run by illness.

Therunning team will continue running in their own event in Allston – a five-mile race in December that begins and ends at Boston Landing.
Photos courtesy MR8 Foundation

Peter Datish, Henry Richard, Anthony Datish, Liley Damatin, and Jessie Delouis at the finish line on Monday.

Denise Richard and Jane Richard greet former Neighborhood House Charter School teacher Rachel Moo (second from left) and Patrick Ryan (far right).

The entire group of Team MR8 marathon runners posed for a group photo. It will be the last year the organization fields a marathon team.

Henry Richard and Ava O’Brien at the finish line on Monday.

Jack Burke and Nolan Cleary celebrated after finishing the race together on Monday.