This is it. There is no other marathon in the world that is older or more famous. Boston is the dream and goal for many a runner.

Be it your first or 24th Boston, there is always something to learn. So if you are one of the qualified runners, I would like to offer the following suggestions.

Arrive Early / Stay Late: Boston is a great city to visit and learn about American history, not to mention eating great oysters. Treat yourself and stay to at least Wednesday or longer if you can.

Traveling by Plane? Carry on Your Running Shoes & Clothes: Bring everything you will need on race day. This is no time to be looking for lost bags.

Don't Rent a Car: Boston has an excellent subway system called the "T" that will take you everywhere in the greater Boston area except to the starting line.

Chip Tip: It's So Simple: No Chip-No time-No finish medal. Check your Chip to make sure all the information is correct at the Expo. Keep it in a safe place.

Attend a Free Clinic: Even if you learn one new thing, it could help you set your PR.

Night Before: Don't forget to read the B.A.A. Instructions in Your Race Packet

Crowd Support: To ensure spectators cheer for you, wear a shirt with your name, city, or school on the front. Each year I wear my DePaul shirt.

Dress for All Types of Weather: In my 23 years at Boston, I have experienced temperatures from 40 to 80 with shining sun to pouring rain

Eat Breakfast on Monday Morning: The marathon starts at 11 a.m. Chicago time and you'll be up early to catch your bus. Make time to grab a bagel, banana and orange juice.

Take the Bus to the Start Line (Don't Drive!): The BAA's buses leave from downtown Boston and are free to all registered runners. Please note that only registered runners are allowed on these buses.

Race Strategy-Start Easy: The biggest mistake one can make at Boston is starting too quickly and running the first five to 10 miles too fast. The first five miles are really downhill. In fact, the first 16 miles are mostly downhill. It is better to hold back and save something for the uphills (Newton Hills) between 18 and 22 miles. Heartbreak Hill is only one of four hills. Don't worry because the narrow streets at the starting line and the first 10 miles will help slow down your pace. A high bib number is a blessing, not a curse, in this situation.

Post Race-Stick Around for the Dinner and Parties: The BAA puts on a good dinner party and you have already paid for it. Even if you don't eat there, at least show up because a complete video of the mara-thon is shown and the results are posted.

Boston Spectating Tips
Pick One Spot and Camp Out. Unlike Chicago and other loop courses, Boston is a point-to-point course. So it's impossible to move around to different locations. Near a television set? Coverage starts as early at 7 a.m.

Boston College: One of the best places to view the race is at Boston College. This is the end of the Green line on the "T", and the down side of heartbreak hill near the 22-mile mark.

Bring a Noisemaker, Bell or Horn:

Discuss Beforehand With Your Runner Where You Will Be on the Course and Which Side of the Street:

The Finish Line: The day before the race, go to the finish area with your runner and friends to determine an exact place and time where you'll meet. You can find maps on the BAA Web page (http://www.baa.org/BostonMarathon/). There is an entire block set up as the family reunion area with letters "A" to "Z". It will take a marathoner 30 to 60 minutes after they finish to obtain their bag and arrive at the family reunion area.

Not in Boston? Get your loved one/friend's bib numbers before they leave. You can type in their bib number and watch individual progress via the Internet at the B.A.A. Boston Marathon home page (http://www.baa.org/BostonMarathon/).

Chicago runner Mark Buciak has a personal best of 2:30:25 and has completed the last 23 Boston Marathons. He will be conducting a free clinic entitled: "Boston 2003 - Final Tips" on Sunday, April 13, at Fleet Feet Sports, 210 W. North Ave., Chicago. The clinic begins at 5:30 p.m., but a video of the 100th Boston Marathon begins at 5 p.m. Come early for a good seat. RSVP by calling 312-587-3338.

Additional Tips
Run the B.A.A. Freedom Run (2.8 Miles) on Sunday: Take in many of Boston's inspiring and educational attractions, including part of the Freedom Trail. Open to everyone, marathoners, their friends and family.

The Boston Ducks: These tour vehicles are the best way to relax and see the city during the days before and after the marathon. Note: purchase your tickets a day ahead of time.

LeDenta: (109 Salem St. 617-523-0990) The best pasta in Boston. Open on Easter Sunday, the day before the marathon, but make a reservation.

The Bova Bakery: (134 Salem St., 617-523-5601; www.northendboston.com/bovabakery). This place never closes. There is nothing more Boston than this bakery Tell them that Marathon Mark from Chicago sent you.

Lastly . . . Relax. Yes, it is the most difficult thing to do. By now, all the hard work and miles are done. Sleep, rest and healthy eating are key factors at this point. Remember to relax and enjoy the marathon as well as your visit to one of the best cities in the country.

Wishing you success, and I'll see you at Bova on Monday night!