BOSTON -- Boston Marathon race organizers are not taking any chances this year. They are doubling the number of police officers that will be patrolling the more than 26-mile course at this year's race.

The extra officers are part of a beefed-up security plan after last year's deadly bombings at the finish line.

New this year, racers and spectators will not be allowed to bring backpacks or coolers.

Instead, everything will need to be stored in clear plastic bags,

They also say "bandits," or runners who do not officially register but run the course anyway will not be allowed to race this year.