Marathon

Discipline: Road Events

The marathon is a long-distance road race that tests endurance, pacing, and mental strength over a demanding course. It is one of the most celebrated events in athletics and has a unique place in Olympic history, inspired by the Greek tradition surrounding the run from Marathon to Athens.

At the 1896 Olympic Games, it was contested over an early course of about 40 kilometres, becoming one of the most memorable events of the Games. At Paris 1900, the marathon was again held over a non-standard distance, approximately 40.26 kilometres, reflecting the evolving nature of Olympic road racing before the distance was later standardized.