Hundreds of runners heading to the annual Broad Street Run were delayed Sunday morning when a SEPTA subway train lost power near Hunting Park Station. The mechanical problem also disabled the cooling system, leaving an estimated 600 to 800 passengers sweltering inside the cars.
The northbound Broad Street subway train came to a stop before runners could reach the race's starting line. SEPTA spokesperson Andrew Busch described the issue as a "garden-variety mechanical issue."
Passengers faced hot conditions as the cooling system was off, and the delay disrupted pre-race routines for many, including access to water and portable toilets at the starting area.
A rescue train was sent to push the stalled cars to the Wyoming Avenue Station. Once there, passengers exited the train and had to walk approximately 1.2 miles to the start of the race near Broad and Somerville Avenue.
Runners expressed frustration but also relief upon getting off the delayed train. The unexpected walk served as an early warm-up for participants before the race began.
The transit agency stated that weather conditions were not a factor in causing the failure. Details regarding the specific mechanical issue were not immediately available.
The incident occurred ahead of the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run, an event that draws thousands of participants to the city.
"It was definitely anxiety-provoking, but happy to be off the train," said Siobhan McKenna, a runner from South Philadelphia.
