Runners at the Boston Marathon came to this year's starting line united -- including Fresno resident Brad Castillo.
"It's a totally different atmosphere this year. Everybody is so excited to be here. There is a sense of resilience," said Castillo.
Last year, Castillo was less than a mile from the finish line when the bombs exploded. So he never got to finish the race he had worked so hard to qualify for until Monday.
Clovis West graduate Shannon Basara was a few blocks away when chaos unfolded. That experience moved her to run.
"The first time I walked by the finish line I started to cry because I remembered everything that happened there," said Basara. "My parents are going to be crying when they see me as I make the final turns."
Basara says the race has been emotional and healing for so many.
"It's just going to show how strong this city truly is to come back out again and cheer on all the runners," she said. "It's going to be great. Seeing the city fill up with people from all around the nation, all around the world has been great."
For both, each mile comes with a sense of paying tribute and respect.
"They planted daffodils all along the course in memory of those who were hurt and those who were killed. There's reminders everywhere, and I think everybody is running with the sense that we are doing it for them," said Castillo.
Although the 26 miles will take a toll on them, both are proud to show that the strength of an entire community and country can turn tragedy into triumph.
Basara finished the race in 5 hours, 21 minutes and 21 seconds. Castillo finished the marathon in 4 hours, 16 minutes and 22 seconds.
