Do you know how marathons started?

With over 800 races every year, marathons have become a popular way to push your limits and fire up your competitive spirit. But do you know the exciting history behind this iconic sport? Blast to the past and discover the truth.

In 490 BCE, the ancient Greeks defeated the Persians at the battle of Marathon. Fresh from the action, a messenger named Pheidippides raced to the city of Athens to announce their victory. Though he would perish from exhaustion on his return, Pheidippides' heroic trek would inspire what we now know as the modern marathon. Relive the glory of this mythic moment with these epic games.

Following its success at the first Olympics, a global community of enthusiastic runners emerged around the sport. Sharing a competitive spark and a love of the lifestyle, athletes everywhere have worked hard to achieve their goal of following in Pheidippides' footsteps. From ancient warriors to everyday racers, celebrate the storied history of the marathon with these epic games.