Nearly 28,0000 runners were thrilled to be back on Broad Street for the 42st annual Blue Cross Broad Street Run held on a picture-perfect day on May 1. Last year’s run was held in October due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with approximately 17,000 participants. Independence Blue Cross (Independence) has sponsored the race for 26 consecutive years.
To ensure the run’s safety, the City of Philadelphia Parks & Recreation required runners to submit a proof of vaccination. Greg Deavens, Independence president and CEO, was interviewed by NBC10 anchor Erin Coleman. Deavens also helped to start the race, joining Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott-Lovell at the starting line.
The nation’s largest 10-miler is one of Philadelphia’s most beloved events and takes runners from north Philadelphia to south Philadelphia — passing iconic landmarks such as Temple University, City Hall, The Kimmel Center, and the Sports Complex.
Independence congratulates the winners, including Robert Gaitho, who finished first with a time of 45:51.17, and Sarah Naibe who finished first among women with a time of 56:08.
Emilia Perry from Philadelphia had the fastest time for any wheelchair competitor, finishing in 43:45. She was the first woman in race history to place first in the wheelchair division. Matt Helm from Downingtown won the men’s title with a time of 56:08.
This year, more than 75 of Independence associate runners participated in the race. Independence’s corporate running team, known as the Blue Streaks, is one of the largest in the City.
Congratulations to all participants!
Emilia Perry from Philadelphia had the fastest time for any wheelchair competitor, finishing in 43:45. She was the first woman in race history to place first in the wheelchair division.
