**
Overview
The Boston Marathon is an annual marathon event held in Boston, Massachusetts, United States. It is one of the six World Marathon Majors and is considered one of the most prestigious long-distance running events in the world. The marathon is held on Patriots' Day, the third Monday in April, and attracts thousands of runners from around the globe. The event is known for its challenging course, which includes 42.2 kilometers of hills, turns, and uneven terrain, making it a true test of endurance for participants.
The Boston Marathon is also famous for its rich history and tradition. It was first held in 1897 and has been run every year since, with the exception of 2020 when it was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event has a long history of attracting top athletes from around the world, including Olympic champions, world record holders, and other notable runners.
History/Background
The Boston Marathon was founded by the Boston Athletic Association (BAA) in 1897, with the first event being held on April 19 of that year. The inaugural marathon was won by John J. McDermott, an American athlete who completed the course in 2:55:10. The event quickly gained popularity, and by the early 20th century, it had become a major international competition.
In the early years, the Boston Marathon was known for its challenging course, which included a number of hills and uneven terrain. The course has undergone several changes over the years, but it remains one of the most difficult marathons in the world. In 1966, the event was officially recognized by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), and it has since become one of the most prestigious long-distance running events in the world.
Key Information
* Course: The Boston Marathon course is 42.2 kilometers long and starts in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, before finishing in Copley Square, Boston.
* Elevation gain: The course has a total elevation gain of 305 meters, making it one of the most challenging marathons in the world.
* Weather: The weather in Boston in April can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
* Record holders: The men's record holder is Geoffrey Mutai, who completed the course in 2:03:02 in 2011. The women's record holder is Paula Radcliffe, who completed the course in 2:17:42 in 2003.
* Notable winners: Other notable winners of the Boston Marathon include Bill Rodgers, who won the event four times in the 1970s, and Lidiya Grigoryeva, who won the women's event in 1980.
Significance
The Boston Marathon is significant for a number of reasons. It is one of the most prestigious long-distance running events in the world, attracting top athletes from around the globe. The event is also a major tourist attraction, with thousands of spectators lining the course each year to cheer on the runners.
The Boston Marathon has also played an important role in the history of women's athletics. In 1972, the event was the first to allow women to compete, and it has since become a major platform for female athletes. The event has also been the site of several notable upsets, including the 1980 women's event, which was won by Lidiya Grigoryeva, a Soviet athlete who defeated a field of American runners.
