BOSTON - Every year on Patriots' Day, many of the world's best long-distance runners gather for the Boston Marathon, a grueling, world-renowned race that has been held for more than a century. It's one of the most anticipated days of the year for Boston-area residents.
For decades, Patriots' Day was always celebrated on April 19 in Massachusetts, meaning the marathon was held on that day, beginning in 1897 when John J. McDermott won in two hours, 55 minutes. The marathon has only grown in popularity since and is now the most prestigious race in the United States.
Aside from Olympic qualifying, it is the only marathon in the country that requires a qualifying time for runners who enter. Competitors face unpredictable weather conditions, plus the world-famous "Heartbreak Hill" at the 20-mile mark of the race. Another tradition is the Boston Red Sox playing a morning game the day of the race, followed by fans from the game leaving the stadium to cheer on runners as they reach the finish line.
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