**
Overview
The Boston Marathon, officially known as the Boston Athletic Association (BAA) Marathon, is an annual long-distance running event held on Patriots' Day in Boston, Massachusetts, United States. First held in 1897, it is the world's oldest annual marathon and one of the six World Marathon Majors. The event is a 42.195-kilometer (26.2-mile) road race that attracts elite runners from around the globe, as well as amateur athletes seeking to challenge themselves on one of the most iconic courses in the sport.
The Boston Marathon is known for its challenging course, which features a mix of flat and hilly terrain, as well as a grueling final stretch through the heart of Boston. The event has a rich history, having been held continuously since its inception, with the exception of a few years during World War I and World War II. Today, the Boston Marathon is a beloved tradition, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators and millions of viewers worldwide.
History/Background
The Boston Marathon was founded by the Boston Athletic Association (BAA) in 1897, with the goal of promoting physical fitness and athletic competition in the city. The first event was won by John J. McDermott, an American runner who completed the course in 2:55:10. Over the years, the Boston Marathon has grown in popularity, with the introduction of women's competition in 1972 and the expansion of the field to include international runners.
Some notable milestones in the history of the Boston Marathon include:
* 1908: The Boston Marathon is officially recognized as the world's oldest annual marathon.
* 1966: The event is moved from its original course in Ashland, Massachusetts, to its current route through the city of Boston.
* 1972: Women's competition is introduced, with Kathrine Switzer becoming the first woman to officially finish the event.
* 1996: The Boston Marathon is moved to April from its traditional Patriots' Day date in September.
Key Information
Some of the most notable achievements in the history of the Boston Marathon include:
* Course records:
+ Men's record: 2:01:39 (Dickson Chumba, 2016)
+ Women's record: 2:19:59 (Brigid Kosgei, 2019)
* Notable winners:
+ Men's winners: Bill Rodgers (1975, 1977, 1978), Alberto Salazar (1982, 1983), and Geoffrey Mutai (2011)
+ Women's winners: Joan Benoit (1980), Paula Radcliffe (2002), and Lelisa Desisa (2013, 2015)
* Boston Marathon bombing: In 2013, the event was marred by a terrorist attack that killed three people and injured hundreds more. The event was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Significance
The Boston Marathon is one of the most prestigious events in the world of long-distance running, attracting top athletes from around the globe. The event has played a significant role in promoting physical fitness and athletic competition, as well as raising awareness for various social causes, including cancer research and women's empowerment.
