Update: Here’s how to track your favorite athlete as they run the 2015 Boston Marathon

And they’re off! The 118th Boston Marathon has officially begun and with it – over 36,000 runners making their way (sprinkled throughout the day) across the 26.2 mile long route. Not to mention, the one million spectators who will also be watching, cheering and rooting from the sidelines (ridiculous signs in-hand).

But if you can’t make it down to the race – or even if you can – you may be looking for a way to track your favorite runner. Whether it’s a friend, a family member or one of the “elite” runners in the pack, there are a few ways to keep up with your favorite Boston Marathon athlete.

B.A.A. Website and Text Message

First and foremost, to find out a runner’s bib number check the B.A.A. website. You can look it up right in their database. You can also track an entire Marathon team by going here.

To receive updates on your runner as they cross important mile markers, register for the marathon’s AT&T Athlete Alert by texting the bib number of your friend to 345678.

The B.A.A. Mobile App

And if you’re not much of a texter, I recommend downloading the B.A.A.’s mobile app – iPhone version or Android version – which will let you follow ten runners at a time. If you’re following more than one runner, this is certainly the best way to do so. Instead of receiving sporadic texts, the app will consolidate all the runners’ information in one place. To find out more, check out Runner’s World’s report on the app.

Emergency

And in case of an emergency, wwlp.com reported that you can locate your loved ones through the state Department of Public Health and the American Red Cross’ patient tracking database, “Patient Connection.” You can call 2-1-1 or the Red Cross at 1-800-564-1234 for find out information on loved ones. But hopefully, this won’t be necessary.

Happy Marathon Monday, everybody!