The First Boston Marathon Is Run

Setting the scene

Inspired by the marathon at the revived Olympic Games in Athens, Boston Athletic Association members wanted an annual road race that could link the club to the growing endurance-running movement.

What happened

The first Boston Marathon was run on April 19, 1897, over roughly 24.5 miles; John J. McDermott won in 2:55:10, and the field numbered fifteen starters.

Why it still matters

Boston remains the world's oldest annual marathon and still runs on Patriots' Day, drawing elite fields and charity runners from every continent. Memorable detail: the distance was not standardized to 26.2 miles until 1924.

Background

It remains the world's oldest annual marathon.