Boston Marathon 2024: Defending Champion Susannah Scaroni Withdrawing From 128th Race Leaves Fans Disheartened: ‘You Will Be Missed’

One of the Boston Marathon’s defending champions, Susannah Scaroni, a three-time Paralympian, has unfortunately withdrawn from this year’s Boston race. The reason behind this is said to be an injury. Scaroni’s remarkable journey in the marathon circuit was punctuated by a memorable race in 2023, where she courageously navigated unexpected challenges, ultimately securing a bronze medal in the women’s 5000m T54 event.

She faced a setback at the age of 5 that left her paralyzed. As she once said, “But what I was able to think about was how awesome and what a blessing it is to be alive and to get to be on a start line next to all the people who I love being around. “ However, this didn’t hinder her dreams. Instead, she enthusiastically took up wheelchair racing. However, it seems fate has different plans for her as she announced her withdrawal from the Boston Marathon, leaving fans disheartened.

Susannah Scaroni’s reflection on prioritizing her well-being and Paris 2024

Recently, Susannah Scaroni took to Instagram to share a post featuring a photo of herself, seemingly with a shoulder injury. In her caption, she expressed deep disappointment as she announced her withdrawal from both the Boston Marathon and London Marathon. For the past seven weeks, she has been grappling with an overuse injury in her shoulder. Despite receiving excellent treatment and seeking second opinions, it was concluded last week that prioritizing her body’s well-being is paramount. Hence, she has decided to take the necessary time off to recuperate and focus on rigorous training for Paris 2024.

She further acknowledges the caliber of the upcoming competitions and expresses eagerness to support her fellow athletes. However, Paris will mark Susannah Scaroni’s fourth Paralympic appearance, a milestone she cherishes deeply. However, as soon as this news was circulated, fans expressed their heartfelt sadness.

Messages of support from fellow athletes and industry leaders

Among the multitude of comments, several resonated deeply. Tatyana McFadden, an illustrious Paralympian with an impressive tally of twenty medals across multiple Summer Paralympic Games, shared her empathetic words, “I know this choice wasn’t easy, especially in the moment, but in the long run you will come back stronger.” Echoing this sentiment, Danelle D’Aquanni Umstead, a distinguished American alpine skier and Paralympian, offered solace, saying, “Sorry you have this setback. Remember setbacks only lead to comebacks, girly. Heal fast and come back stronger.”

The supportive messages continued as Mary Wittenberg, an esteemed American sports executive, conveyed her well wishes, “We’ll miss you @suscaroni. Sending fast healing vibes.” Similarly, Rhonda M Vetere, a globally respected C-Suite technology executive, expressed her concern, “So sorry to hear this… please rest. you will be missed.” Concluding the heartfelt responses, Colombian wheelchair racer Francisco Sanclemente offered encouragement, “You’ll come back stronger for the Paralympics, good recovery.” These supportive messages from fellow athletes and industry professionals underscore the resilience and camaraderie within the sporting community.

Read More: Boston Marathon: Who is Susannah Scaroni? A Closer Look at the Paralympic Athlete Who Withdrew from the Patriots’ Day Race