HOPKINTON — Before the starting gun fires and tens of thousands of runners flood Main Street each Patriots’ Day, a quieter tradition plays out just steps from the start line.

For the past decade, Hopkinton couple Connie Wright and Dan Murphy — known to nearly everyone as “Murph” — have opened their home to visiting marathon runners on the morning of the Boston Marathon.

This year, they welcomed 40 runners and five volunteers. Athletic endeavors are a big part of life for both Murph and Wright, who have a genuine appreciation for the dedication and grit it takes to run the Boston Marathon.

A Tradition Passed Down

The gathering traces its roots to a former neighbor. She was a member of the Heartbreak Hill Striders, a Boston-area running club. For years, she hosted the group at her home. When she moved, she asked Wright and Murph if they would like to take over.

They said yes. A decade later, they are still at it.

Runners From Around the World

The Heartbreak Hill Striders have a sister club in Australia called the Sydney Striders. That connection helps draw an international crowd each year.

This year’s group reflected that global reach. Seven runners came from Uganda, eight from Australia, and one from the Netherlands. Runners from several U.S. states also attended.

Wright said the group typically numbers 35 or more. This year’s count of 40 runners made it one of their largest gatherings.

A Warm Place to Wait

Runners arrive at the Murph-Wright home around 7:30 A.M. From there, they are shuttled to Hopkinton State Park, where they wait for their assigned wave start times.

The home gives them a comfortable place to relax before the race. Wright and Murph put out coffee, tea, bagels, peanut butter, and bananas.

Wright, however, noted that one amenity stands out above the rest. The biggest hit with the runners, she said, is the bathrooms.

A Decade of Hospitality

The Boston Marathon starts each year in Hopkinton, drawing runners and spectators from across the globe to this small MetroWest town. For many visiting athletes, the Murph-Wright home has become a meaningful part of their race-day experience.

The runners are most appreciative of the hospitality.