The History of the MarathonNowadays, every year, hundreds of thousands of people run marathons. Some do so for the glory, but many do so for the sense of achievement, and to raise money for charities and other good causes. It is one of those sporting events that appeals to a wide public and that many can compete in. Even if you are not a particularly good runner, you can still take part. For example, the annual London marathon has hundreds of participants who walk the entire course. History of the Marathon: Where Did It All Begin?International athletes train for months and years just for the one day. But where did it all begin? The history of the marathon of modern times dates back to the 19th century, but the early origins of the event are steeped in legend. Many historians believe that the history of the marathon dates back to a battle that took place in 490 B.C. The Athenians and Persians were fighting close to Athens, in a region known as ‘Marathon’, when the Athenians sent a courier to ask for help from Sparta. The courier, Phidippides, managed to cover the 150 miles in less than two days. The legend changed over time and it was claimed that he actually travelled to Sparta to tell of the Athenians victory at Marathon, and managed to utter a few words before dying from his efforts. History of the Marathon: Modern BeginningsThis tale, although probably a fantasy, nevertheless had an impact on the history of the marathon, and its appearance at the first Olympics in 1896. A French historian, Michele Breal, offered a silver trophy for the winner of a race that re-enacted Phidippides' run. The Olympic organizers designed a 40-kilometer (24.8-mile) race, known as the marathon, which would be the climax of the 1896 Olympics, on April 10th. Two trial marathons were held prior to this, in March, to select who would represent Greece at the Olympics. The event, involving 13 Greek, and 4 foreign competitors, was full of drama, but was eventually won by a Greek shepherd, Spiridon Louis. History of the Marathon DistanceThe history of the marathon distance dates back to the 1908 London Olympics. When the event organizers were laying out the Olympic course, they had first intended it to be 26 miles, starting at Windsor Castle, and finishing in the white City Stadium, in London. However, it was decided that the finish line should be in front of the royal box. This determined the distance of 26.2 miles. This marathon distance was officially adopted by Olympic officials in 1924. History of the Marathon: World Marathon MajorsNowadays every major city, every region, seems to have its annual marathon. Five of the biggest marathons (Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, New York) have joined forces to launch the World Marathon Majors. This offers a $ 1 million prize purse to be split equally between the top male and female marathoners in the world, adding to the significance of the marathon running discipline. However for all of us there can be great pride in stepping in the footsteps of Phidipiddes of 2,500 years ago by finishing a marathon. Wish to get more running tips? Subscribe to the Best Running Tips Newsletter or to my site blog. Go from History of the Marathon Page to Marathon Running Page Go from History of the Marathon Page to Best Running Tips Homepage Marathon Running 100 Day Marathon Plan | Marathon Training Tips | Marathon Training Nutrition | History of the Marathon | Boston Marathon | Chicago Marathon | New York Marathon |
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