On Monday, 20 April, under cold, wet and windy conditions, the 119th Boston Marathon took place. Despite the miserable weather conditions and unrelenting headwinds, the city of Boston still managed to sparkle - lit by the spirit and determination of some 30,000 runners and over 500,000 spectators.

This year the RCSI student team consisted of Ranjit Banwait (Captain), Ben Melvin, Eoin Murphy, Gordon Treacy, Mark Heneghan, Chloe Doran, Caitrín O'Leary, Susan Hannon, Aifric Heffernan and Maggie O'Brien.

All of whom successfully made it to the finish line in spite of chattering teeth, blue lips and icy hands. In order to qualify for Boston, students are required to complete the Dublin marathon and places are allocated on a competitive basis. Students are also required to raise funds for Breast Cancer Ireland.

The Boston Marathon is the oldest road race and RCSI's involvement is facilitated by Dr John V. Coyle (RCSI Class of '62), member of the Boston Athletic Association (BAA) and recipient of the 2002 RCSI Distinguished Graduate Award. First to cross the line for team RCSI was Eoin Murphy with a finish time of 03h05m - particularly impressive considering the challenging weather conditions and his starting position in the third and final wave.

Eoin Murphy was presented with the John V. Coyle Perpetual Trophy in recognition of his achievement with Jack Fultz, 1976 Boston Marathon winner.

Commenting on the event, Corriena Brien, Student Services Manager, extended her thanks to each of the students for being such positive role models and ambassadors for RCSI. She went on to add, “During the time spent in Boston, our students engage with professionals, organisations and individuals across a broad spectrum. The professional and enthusiastic manner in which our students conduct themselves is highly commendable. Their ability to fly the college flag never ceases to amaze me. We are very proud of each and every one.”

Reflecting on his time in Boston, team captain Ranjit Banwait (SC1) commented: "In addition to my participation in this historical race, representing the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland at the Boston Marathon has provided me with an opportunity to collaborate with RCSI alumni and other medical professionals in the greater Boston area. On behalf of past and present participants, I would like to thank Dr John V. Coyle for his continuous generosity in providing students with this once in a lifetime experience."