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As one of the most prestigious and challenging marathons in the world, the Boston Marathon 2024 attracts thousands of runners each year. Whether you’re an experienced marathoner or a first-time participant, proper training and preparation are essential for success.
First held in 1897, the Boston marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon and one of the six World Marathon Majors. Inspired by the success of the first modern Olympic Marathon in 1896, the Boston Athletic Association (BAA) established the race to celebrate its own history and provide an athletic challenge to runners. The race has been held every year since then, except during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and has grown into a world-renowned event that draws elite runners and enthusiasts alike.
The race takes place on Patriots’ Day, a Massachusetts state holiday that commemorates the beginning of the American Revolutionary War. The tradition of running through the historic streets of Boston, surrounded by cheering crowds, is a favourite aspect of this race for many participants.
The Boston Marathon Bombing in 2013
The Boston Marathon Bombing occurred on April 15, 2013, when two homemade bombs detonated near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Three people were killed, and more than 260 were injured, many of them severely. The Boston marathon bombers were two brothers, Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. The bombing was widely condemned as a senseless act of violence, and it had a profound impact on the city of Boston and the running community.
In response to the bombing, the marathon organisers have implemented numerous security measures, including bag checks, increased police presence, and restrictions on who can enter the finish line area. Despite the tragedy, the marathon remains one of the world’s most prestigious and celebrated races, with runners from around the globe gathering each year to compete in this historic event.
Boston Marathon Route and its Challenges
The Boston Marathon route starts in the rural town of Hopkinton and traverses various New England landscapes, from quaint country towns to bustling urban areas, before ending in the heart of Boston. The race features several unique challenges, including significant elevation changes, unpredictable weather conditions, and the famous Newton hills, culminating in the notorious Heartbreak Hill.
Being prepared for these challenges is crucial, as the course’s difficulty has the potential to derail otherwise well-prepared runners. Focusing on hill training, adapting to variable weather, and familiarising yourself with the course through race maps and visualisation techniques can all help ensure that you’re physically and mentally ready for race day.
Boston Marathon Qualifying Times
Unlike many other marathons, organisers require that most participants meet specific Boston Marathon qualifying times to gain entry. These standards are based on age and gender categories and are meant to uphold the race’s competitive spirit while also ensuring participant safety.
Beyond the time qualification, there are also limited spots available for charity runners, who commit to raising significant funds for designated non-profit organisations. Additionally, the BAA provides entry to select runners through their invitational entry process, often recognizing individuals for their running achievements or contributions to the sport.
Boston Marathon Results
To see the Boston Marathon 2023 results, click here. Benson Kipruto (Kenya) won the men’s Boston Marathon 2023 in 2 hours, 8 minutes, and 59 seconds, while Yalemzerf Yehualaw (Ethiopia) was the women’s champion in 2 hours, 19 minutes, and 46 seconds.
When Is the Boston Marathon 2024?
The 128th Boston Marathon will be on 15 April 2024.
Other major marathons around the world include The Rome Marathon and London Marathon.
Boston Marathon 2024
For all other information, click here.
Things To Do in Boston
Boston is a great city. For further information on what to do in Boston, visit the official tourism website.
