Abbott adds Boston race to World Marathon Majors deal

US healthcare and pharmaceutical brand Abbott has built on its title sponsorship of the World Marathon Majors by striking a deal to become an official sponsor of the Boston Marathon.

Under the multi-year deal, the terms of which were not disclosed, Abbott will support the race and competitors through various initiatives.

Activities will include the weekly Abbott Runner’s Lounge, which will appear on the Boston Marathon's official Facebook page and feature help and advice for runners.

The Boston Marathon is one of six races that make up the WMM. Abbott last year struck a four-year deal, from 2015 to 2018, for the title sponsorship rights to the series.

As part of this wider commitment to the WMM, Abbott will provide medical staff at the Boston Marathon with i-STAT handheld blood analysers that can perform blood tests within minutes.

Boston Athletic Association executive director Tom Grilk said: “Since 1887, the mission of the B.A.A. has been to promote health and wellness in our community, especially through running. This echoes the mission and goals of Abbott, as we align our international brand with Abbott's global presence.”

The 2015 Boston Marathon takes place on April 20. Financial services group John Hancock is the event’s principal sponsor.