Boston Marathon Runners Load Up At City Hall Pasta Dinner

BOSTON (CBS) -- It's not just a tradition, it's downright mandatory.

Thousands of runners gathered at City Hall Plaza on the eve of the Boston Marathon to enjoy a pasta dinner.

Runners in attendance understand the benefits of a carbohydrate filled dinner before the big run.

"Energy. Because that's what you need, energy," one runner said. "So, eat up."

WBZ-TV anchor and Master of Ceremonies David Wade kicked off the festivities.

Runner Ronnie Wong of Baltimore is gearing up for his 316th marathon. He has also run 26 ultramarathons.

"I can run a race every week," he said. "I ran a 10K on Saturday."

Meanwhile, runners gathered at the finish line to take pictures and reflect on Monday's race.

Marathoner Bill Casey of Newport, RI, says he's got several things on his mind.

"Whether I've eaten enough,  whether I've gotten enough rest and training, and just hope for some good weather and a good run," Casey said.

Bonnie Darrenkamp of Charlotte, NC, is running her second straight Boston.

"It's excitement, it's anxiety"she said."It's all sorts of emotions but I'm ready to go, I'm tired of waiting."