78-Year-Old American Completes Boston Race after Falling in Blast

World | April 16, 2013, Tuesday // 13:02
78-Year-Old American Finishes Boston Race after Falling in Blast: 78-Year-Old American Completes Boston Race after Falling in Blast Video and pictures from the scene show American Bill Iffrig, 78, in bright orange vest, having his legs swept out from under him by the blast. Photo by telegraph.uk

American Bill Iffrig, 78, has been able to finish the race Monday despite being knocked down by the by the first of two deadly bombs that hit the Boston Marathon.

The third-time marathon participant became a real sensation for crossing the finish line after falling on his knees in the blast. With the help of a race official who lifted him to his feet, he got up and kept going, determined to reach his goal.  

Video and pictures from the scene show Iffrig, in bright orange vest, having his legs swept out from under him by the blast.

"I got down to within 15 feet of the finish apron and just tremendous explosion," he told CNN.

The elderly runner further says the thought of not finishing the race never crossed his mind despite the shock as he was so close to his goal.

His son Mark congratulated him for the strength, saying his father felt dizzy, but was able to finish as he was an extremely good and fast runner.

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Tags: Bill Iffrig, runner, Boston, Marathon, expolsions, blasts, bombs

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