BOSTONMARATHON
The World's Oldest Annual Marathon — Where qualifying is an achievement and finishing is a dream come true.
The History of Boston
127 years of marathon excellence
The Boston Marathon was born from inspiration. After witnessing the first modern Olympic marathon in Athens in 1896, members of the Boston Athletic Association decided to create their own marathon. On April 19, 1897, 15 men lined up in Ashland, Massachusetts, for what would become the world's most prestigious marathon.
What sets Boston apart is its qualifying standards. Unlike other major marathons that use lotteries, Boston requires runners to prove their ability by running a qualifying time. This creates a field of dedicated, trained athletes who have earned their place on the starting line.
The course from Hopkinton to Boston is legendary. The first half is mostly downhill, tempting runners to go out too fast. Then comes the Newton Hills, culminating in the infamous Heartbreak Hill at mile 20—right when legs are screaming and glycogen stores are depleted.
The final stretch down Boylston Street to the finish line is one of the most iconic moments in sports. Crowds pack the street, cheering runners through the final meters to the blue and yellow finish line.
Boston has been the site of breakthrough moments in running history, from Kathrine Switzer's barrier-breaking run in 1967 to the resilience shown after the 2013 bombings. The marathon represents not just a race, but the spirit of the running community.
Legendary Moments
The moments that made Boston legendary
The First Boston Marathon
Inspired by the 1896 Olympic marathon, 15 runners start from Ashland. John J. McDermott wins in 2:55:10, establishing the world's oldest annual marathon.
Kathrine Switzer Breaks Barriers
Kathrine Switzer becomes the first woman to run Boston with an official number. Race official Jock Semple tries to remove her, but she finishes, changing running forever.
Bill Rodgers' First Victory
Bill Rodgers wins the first of his four Boston titles in 2:09:55, setting an American record and becoming "Boston Billy."
Boston Strong
Two bombs explode near the finish line, killing three and injuring hundreds. The running community rallies with "Boston Strong," and the 2014 race sees record entries.
The Comeback
Meb Keflezighi becomes the first American man to win Boston since 1983, writing the names of the 2013 victims on his bib.
Record Fields Return
Post-pandemic Boston Marathon returns to full strength with 30,000 runners from around the world qualifying to run the historic course.
Boston Champions
The legends who conquered Heartbreak Hill
Bill Rodgers
USA • 1975, 1978, 1979, 1980
Clarence DeMar
USA • 1911-1930
Catherine Ndereba
Kenya • 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005
Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot
Kenya • 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008
Jean Driscoll
USA • 1990-1996, 2000 (Wheelchair)
Own a Piece of Boston History
Create a stunning poster featuring the legendary Boston Marathon route from Hopkinton to Boylston Street.
Design Your Boston Poster