The History of the Marathon: From Ancient Legend to Global Phenomenon

via https://www.sfchronicle.com/

The marathon is one of the most iconic and grueling endurance races in the world, symbolizing human perseverance, strength, and determination. But beyond the physical challenge lies a rich history that dates back thousands of years, blending ancient legend with modern athleticism. From the battlefields of Ancient Greece to the crowded streets of major cities worldwide, the marathon has evolved into a global celebration of human endurance.

The Legend of Pheidippides: Where It All Began

The origin of the marathon is rooted in ancient Greek history and legend. In 490 BCE, during the Battle of Marathon, the Athenians fought against the invading Persian army. According to legend, after the Athenians secured a surprising victory, a messenger named Pheidippides was tasked with running from the battlefield in Marathon to Athens—a distance of approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers)—to deliver the news of victory. Upon reaching Athens, Pheidippides reportedly proclaimed, "Νενικήκαμεν!" (Nenikékamen!), meaning "We have won!" before collapsing and dying from exhaustion.

While the exact details of this story are debated by historians, the legend of Pheidippides has become the foundational myth behind the modern marathon.

The Birth of the Modern Marathon

Fast forward to the late 19th century, the idea of commemorating Pheidippides' legendary run inspired the creation of the marathon as a modern sporting event. When the first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896, organizers sought to honor Greece’s ancient history. Frenchman Michel Bréal proposed a long-distance race that would replicate Pheidippides’ fabled journey.

The inaugural Olympic marathon covered a distance of 40 kilometers (24.85 miles), tracing a route from the town of Marathon to the Olympic Stadium in Athens. The event was won by Greek runner Spyridon Louis, instantly making him a national hero.

Why the Marathon is 26.2 Miles

The now-standard marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometers) wasn’t always the norm. Early marathons varied in length, but the change to the current distance was solidified during the 1908 London Olympics. That year, the race was extended so it could start at Windsor Castle and finish in front of the Royal Box at White City Stadium, totaling 26 miles and 385 yards (42.195 km).

This precise distance was officially adopted by the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) in 1921, cementing 26.2 miles as the marathon standard.

via history.com

Marathon Expansion and the Rise of Major Races

Throughout the early 20th century, marathons began appearing in cities around the world, transitioning from elite competitions to mass participation events. The Boston Marathon, first run in 1897, became the oldest annual marathon and one of the most prestigious races globally.

In the modern era, marathons have exploded in popularity, with hundreds of races held each year across the globe. Events like the New York City Marathon, London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and Tokyo Marathon make up the World Marathon Majors, drawing tens of thousands of runners and millions of spectators annually.

via www.sportshistoryweekly.com

Breaking Barriers and Setting Records

The marathon has long been a stage for historic athletic achievements. Legendary figures like Abebe Bikila, who won the 1960 Olympic marathon barefoot, and Eliud Kipchoge, who broke the two-hour barrier in a non-record-eligible event in 2019 with a time of 1:59:40, have pushed the limits of human endurance.

Women’s inclusion in the marathon was another major milestone. Until the 1970s, women were largely barred from marathon competition. Kathrine Switzer famously defied convention by officially running the 1967 Boston Marathon, despite attempts to remove her from the course. It wasn’t until the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics that women were officially allowed to compete in the Olympic marathon, with Joan Benoit Samuelson taking the gold.

The Modern Marathon: A Global Phenomenon

Today, marathons have become much more than elite athletic contests—they are global festivals of health, charity, and community. Millions of runners of all ages and abilities participate in marathons worldwide, raising millions for charities and personal causes. For many, completing a marathon is a symbol of personal achievement and resilience.

Marathons have also become platforms for pushing human limits and testing new technologies. Advances in shoe technology, training methods, and nutrition continue to push marathon times faster than ever, while the races themselves have grown into massive international events that unify people across cultures.