Photo: Getty Images
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Boston Athletic Association has named Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski as Grand Marshal of the 2024 Boston Marathon.
On Tuesday, the B.A.A. also announced that Gronkowski will be receiving the 2024 Patriots' Award during the 128th marathon set for April 15.
The B.A.A. said Gronk was chosen because of his philanthropy off the field. Each year, the organization presents the award to someone who has positively impacted and given back to the community.
The four-time Super Bowl champion founded the Gronk National Youth Foundation in 2013, dedicated to inspiring Boston's youth and keeping them active. The foundation recently made a $1.2 million dollar donation to the Esplanade Association to renovate the Charlesbank Playground, located along the Charles River Esplanade. The playground will open in Boston in 2025 with the new name "Gronk Playground."
Read More: Gov. Healey Expected To Issue Pardons For Marijuana Possession
“Giving back has always been a priority in my life. When I first got to New England, Mr. Kraft and the Patriots Foundation ingrained in the team the importance of giving back to the community that gives back to us. And this community has supported me throughout my entire career," Gronkowski said in a statement. "Now it's time for me to give back to help set others up for their own journey, especially the youth. This is why the Gronk Playground project is close to my heart. My family and I are honored to be able to give kids an awesome new space to play in the city.”
Gronkowski will be honored at the B.A.A. Gives Back Celebration two days before the marathon. During the race, the Grand Marshal will make his way down the marathon route from Hopkinton to Boston and delivery the trophy to the finish line.
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App | TikTok