The History and Origin of the Marathon Race

The marathon, as we know it today, is inspired by a legendary tale from ancient Greece, involving the hero Pheidippides. The story dates back to 490 BC, during the Battle of Marathon, where Pheidippides is said to have run the first marathon in history to deliver the news of the Athenian victory to Athens.

Eliud Kipchoge; Kenyan Legend and Marathoner runs 1:59:40:2 in INEOS 1:59 Challenge

The Legend of Pheidippides

According to the legend, Pheidippides was an Athenian herald (a messenger). Before the famous marathon run, he had already completed a remarkable journey. The Persian Empire, led by King Darius, was advancing toward Greece, and the Athenians needed help. So, Pheidippides was sent on a grueling run from Athens to Sparta to request military assistance. The distance between the two cities was around 147 miles (235 km), and Pheidippides undertook the journey without the luxury of modern aids like horses or water packs. His only companions were the mountainous terrain, wild animals, and the sweltering summer heat. Despite these obstacles, he completed the trip in just under two days.

When he arrived in Sparta, Pheidippides was met with the disappointment that the Spartans could not assist immediately due to a religious festival. He turned back and ran all the way back to Athens. Exhausted but determined, he was then tasked with another mission: to run the 25 miles (40 km) from the battlefield at Marathon to Athens to announce the Greek victory over the Persians.

The Marathon Run and the Famous Cry of "Nike"

Having marched with the Athenian army during the Battle of Marathon, which resulted in an unexpected Greek victory over the far larger Persian force, Pheidippides now faced his ultimate test. Despite being utterly drained, he began the journey back to Athens. Upon reaching the city, he reportedly shouted the word "Nike" (meaning "Victory" in Greek) to announce the triumph. His triumph, however, was short-lived. According to historians the legend collapsed and died from exhaustion shortly after delivering the message.

The heroic tale of Pheidippides' final run was immortalized in history, and it forms the foundation of the modern marathon race.

The Birth of the Modern Marathon

The marathon as a competitive event was revived in the modern era at the 1896 Athens Olympic Games. The route was inspired by the legendary run of Pheidippides from Marathon to Athens, and it covered approximately 24.85 miles (40 km), which became the standard marathon distance for the first Olympic marathon.

However, the race distance was officially extended to the current 26.2 miles (42.195 km) at the 1908 London Olympics. This was due to the specific route chosen for the race, which started at Windsor Castle and ended at the Royal Box in Olympic Stadium. The distance was adjusted to allow the royal family to have a clear view of the start of the race, and it has remained the official marathon distance ever since.

The 26.2-Mile Marathon and Breaking the Two-Hour Barrier

The marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.195 km) has become the ultimate test of endurance for long-distance runners. One of the most remarkable achievements in marathon history occurred in 2019 when Kenyan runner Eliud Kipchoge became the first person to run a marathon in under two hours. Eliud Kipchoge Kenyan legend runs 1:59:40:2 in INEOS 1:59 Challenge in Vienna, Austria, breaking the previously considered impossible two-hour barrier. His achievement was a testament to the power of human determination and endurance, echoing the legacy of Pheidippides and his legendary run. The 34-year-old Eliud Kipchoge proved “No Human is Limited” Eliud Kipchoge - Interview

Another Kenyan marathoner who came close to breaking the two hour barrier is the late Kelvin Kiptum who set a world record of 2:00:35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon: Kelvin Kiptum World Record of 2:00:35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon

Kelvin Kiptum World Record of 2:00.35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon

Conclusion

The marathon, with its roots in the ancient Greek legend of Pheidippides, has evolved into a global event that tests human endurance and willpower. From its ancient origins to modern-day feats like Kipchoge’s sub-two-hour run, the marathon continues to inspire athletes and spectators around the world. The race has come to symbolize more than just physical endurance—it’s a tribute to the human spirit’s ability to push limits and achieve greatness.