If you’re a resident of the Boston area, you’re probably aware that this Monday (April 19th) is Presidents’ Day and Marathon Monday.
Marathon Monday has a become a widely celebrated event in Boston. On this day, Boston schools are typically closed in observance of Patriot’s Day and several roads are blocked off for the race. Spectators from across the country and even across the world come to cheer on friends and loved ones along the route. Others come to stand by the finish line and watch competitors complete their final miles.
How did the Marathon get its start? The first Boston Marathon was first run in April 1897, making it the oldest continuously running marathon and the second longest continuously running footrace in North America. The Marathon was inspired by the revival of the marathon for the 1896 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece. The first winner of the Boston Marathon was John J “JJ” McDermott, who ran the 24.5 mile course in 2 hours and 55 minutes. Women were not allowed to officially enter the Marathon until 1972. The first woman to run the entire Boston Marathon was Roberta “Bobbi” Gibb, who finished the race in 1966.
While the Marathon was originally a local event, its fame grew to attract runners from around the world. The Marathon was originally a free event, and only began awarding cash prizes in 1986, after professional athletes refused to run the race unless they received a cash prize.
If you want to catch this year’s race (either live or on TV) here is what you need to know.
Where: The race will span from Hopkinton to Boston. You can find a race map here. The race will span 26.2 miles
Time: The Marathon begins at 8:50 a.m. with mobility impaired competitors having the first start time. The women’s elite race begins at 9:32 am and the men’s at 10:am.
How to Watch: Get there early to claim a good spot along the route. This guide gives the best spots to watch.
TV/Live stream: f you want to watch the race from the comfort of your own home, it will be broadcast on NBC Sports Network. You can also live stream the race on NBC Sports Live and from the Boston Athletic Association website.
Happy Marathon Monday and good luck to all participants!
