Brazilian Runner’s Act of Solidarity Goes Viral at the Boston Marathon

Image: Three athletes of the Boston Marathon standing together

A moment of solidarity from a Brazilian runner became one of the most shared images of the week and quickly spread around the world. During the final stretch of the traditional Boston Marathon, São Paulo runner Robson Gonçalves de Oliveira stopped to help American athlete Ajay Haridasse, who collapsed just meters before the finish line. The gesture moved spectators and earned both runners the title of “Heroes of the Boston Marathon” in the American press.

Haridasse, an engineer, fell to the ground exhausted as the crowd tried to encourage him to get up. An Irish runner was the first to stop and offer help, and moments later Robson arrived and joined the effort. He gave up the chance to beat his personal record to support the American runner. The three crossed the finish line together, but immediately afterward Robson — already at his physical limit — collapsed as well and needed medical assistance.

He was treated on site and recovered quickly. The scene went viral and became one of the defining moments of the 130th edition of the Boston Marathon, the oldest and most traditional race in the United States. The runners were celebrated as symbols of the city’s motto, “Boston Strong.” Robson said he only understood the scale of the reaction once he returned home.

He explained that stopping to help someone in need made all the sacrifice required to reach the race in the United States worthwhile. His mother also commented on the episode, saying she has always taught him since childhood to help others whenever possible.