The Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon is one of the most famous races in the world. Thousands of runners race 26.2 miles through the streets of Boston every spring. It has been held every year since 1897.

The Race Course

The Boston Marathon starts in the small town of Hopkinton and ends in downtown Boston. The course goes through eight cities and towns. One of the toughest parts is a series of hills near the end called Heartbreak Hill.

Runners from all over the world try to qualify. You have to run a fast time in another marathon just to be invited. About 30,000 runners take part each year. Fans line the streets to cheer them on.

History and Traditions

The Boston Marathon started in 1897, inspired by the marathon at the first modern Olympics. It is the oldest annual marathon in the world. The race is always held on Patriots' Day, a holiday in Massachusetts.

In 1966, Bobbi Gibb became the first woman to run the full Boston Marathon, even though women were not officially allowed to enter at the time. Today, thousands of women run every year. The Boston Marathon is a symbol of determination and the love of running.

Fun Facts

• The Boston Marathon has been run every year since 1897.
• Heartbreak Hill is the most famous part of the course and comes near mile 20.
• The winner gets a laurel wreath placed on their head, a tradition from ancient Greece.

Did You Know?

The marathon distance of 26.2 miles comes from the 1908 Olympics in London, when the course was changed so the race could finish in front of the royal family!