BOSTON – The Boston Athletic Association (BAA) announced today that Point32Health has been named the official health insurance provider of the BAA, as well as Presenting Sponsor of the BAA 5K. The Massachusetts-based health care organization will be an official sponsor of BAA events throughout the year, including at the Boston Marathon, June’s BAA 10K, and November’s BAA Half Marathon.
“The BAA and Point32Health share a common bond in prioritizing and focusing on the health and wellbeing of our community,” said Jack Fleming, President and Chief Executive Officer of the BAA “As two organizations with deep local roots, we look forward to expanding the the positive impact that wellness can have, no matter if you’re an experienced runner or new to the sport.”
“Point32Health is thrilled to support the BAA and athletes from across the world in their quest for athletic achievement,” said Cain A. Hayes, president and CEO of Point32Health. “We look forward to playing an important role in these inspiring events and celebrating with the entire city of Boston, each runner’s unique journey from the start to the finish line.”
As the first presenting sponsor of the BAA 5K, Point32Health will field a team of 400 athletes for this year’s race on April 15. The BAA 5K annually kicks off Boston Marathon weekend, with nearly 10,000 athletes running through the Back Bay and across the Boston Marathon finish line before completing the 3.1-mile race at Boston Common. The BAA 5K presented by Point32Health is recognized as one of the fastest and most competitive 5K races in the world. The Official Fundraising Partner of the BAA 5K, Special Olympics Massachusetts, raised more than $75,000 through last year’s race and will welcome 100 athletes to Boston this April to support an inclusive environment for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
“I am delighted that Point32Health is the official health insurance provider of the BAA as well as the Presenting Sponsor of the BAA 5K,” said Joan Benoit Samuelson, 1984 Olympic gold medalist, two-time Boston Marathon winner, and Beach2Beacon 10K founder. “Having worked with Point32Health, and as a long time Harvard Pilgrim member, I know first-hand their commitment to the health and wellbeing of their members and communities, and I am pleased to see them extend this commitment to the running community that comes from around the world to Boston to fulfill dreams.”
Participants and spectators will also find Point32Health at the Boston Marathon Expo and Fan Fest on race weekend, and on Patriots’ Day leading a special cheer zone along the course. Year round, Point32Health and the BAA will collaborate to promote a healthy lifestyle through digital campaigns and messaging. The new partnership will also support the BAA’s ongoing community events and initiatives.