Kudos to the participants of Southwest Middle School’s Tiger Trot and the Albert Lea Family Y’s Fountain Lake 5 for honoring the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing at the start of the two races Saturday morning. It was a poignant, heartfelt way to begin the fun.

And what a beautiful day it was. The sun was shining, and the wind was calm. About 500 people showed up to participate, no doubt spurred to run by the good weather and to show support for runners, spectators and law enforcement injured or killing in Boston last week.

Running is a healthy activity that families can do together. And Albert Lea is such a scenic place in which to run. We encourage people to get out and hit the sidewalks and trails. It’s what they are there for.