The world’s oldest marathon competition is the Boston Marathon.

The world’s oldest marathon competition is the Boston Marathon.

The Boston Marathon is one of the world’s most prestigious and oldest annual marathons, held in Boston, Massachusetts, since its inception in 1897. The event takes place on Patriots’ Day, a state holiday in Massachusetts and Maine that falls on the third Monday of April, commemorating the first battles of the American Revolutionary War. The Boston Marathon is organized by the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) and is a part of the World Marathon Majors, a series of six major marathons held across the globe.

The marathon’s 26.2-mile (42.195-kilometer) course begins in Hopkinton. It winds through several Massachusetts cities and towns, including Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, and Brookline, before culminating at the finish line on Boylston Street in Boston’s Copley Square. The course is known for its challenging terrain, notably the infamous Heartbreak Hill, a steep incline in the Newton portion of the race that has tested the endurance of even the most seasoned runners.

The Boston Marathon is an iconic event that attracts elite athletes worldwide, thousands of amateur runners, and charity participants. With over 30,000 runners participating each year and nearly 500,000 spectators lining the streets to cheer them on, the marathon has become a cherished Boston tradition and an important cultural event.

In 2013, the Boston Marathon was tragically marred by a terrorist attack when two bombs were detonated near the finish line, killing three people and injuring more than 260 others. The incident led to an outpouring of support for the city of Boston, its residents, and the marathon runners, with the slogan “Boston Strong” becoming a rallying cry for unity and resilience. In the years since, the Boston Marathon has continued to symbolize strength and perseverance, with increased security measures and an even more significant commitment to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants and spectators.

Each year, the Boston Marathon showcases the indomitable human spirit as runners of all ages and abilities push their limits to achieve their goals. The event serves as a celebration of athletic achievement, community engagement, and the enduring power of resilience in the face of adversity.