Marathons have captivated the human spirit for centuries, challenging athletes and amateurs alike to push the boundaries of physical and mental endurance. Countless marathons take place in hundreds of different cities all over the world, year-round. But in 2024, perhaps none were more important than the one that took place in Paris this August at the Olympic Games.
Long-distance running has become a staple in the greatest sporting show on earth for some time now, with icons such as British superstar Sir Mo Farah captivating audiences both in Old Blighty and overseas. This year, the attention was firmly on Kenyan sensation Eliud Kipchoge, who was aiming to become the first man in history to claim three straight gold medals after reigning supreme in both Rio De Janeiro and Tokyo.
Unfortunately for him, the long-distance running gods had other ideas. Tamirat Tola wasn't even supposed to be competing in the marquee race but was selected to fill in for the injured Sisay Lemma, but ultimately, he stole the show. The highlight of his career up until this summer was a gold medal at the World Championships back in 2022, but he topped that in blistering fashion on the streets of the French capital, romping to victory ahead of Belgium's Bashir Abdi.
While that was the most important run of 2024, there are plenty of marathons that steal the show when it comes to media coverage year-on-year. Let's find out which races they are, and when they are next taking place.
Boston
The Boston Marathon is one of the oldest and most prestigious races on the planet, generating a whopping $200m annually through tourism, hospitality, and sponsorships. Held on Patriots' Day, this iconic race is famous for its challenging course, including the notorious Heartbreak Hill, which has seen legends rise and icons fall.
Back in 1936, then-defending champion Johnny Kelley overtook Ellison "Tarzan" Brown on the infamous ascent, giving him a somewhat unsporting pat on the shoulder as he passed. This gesture revitalized the reigning champion, who went on to rally, taking the lead and ultimately defending his championship, breaking the runner-up's heart in the process.
Over the race's 127-year history, it has witnessed many historic moments, similar to that one. In 1967, Kathrine Switzer became the first woman to officially run the race, challenging gender norms and paving the way for future female athletes. In 2014, Meb Keflezighi became the first American male to win Boston in over three decades - a victory that inspired a nation following the harrowing events of the year before.
London
Across the pond, London provides some of the planet's finest sporting spectacles. The one that everyone seems to gravitate towards is the English Premier League, the country's most elite professional football league. The Big Smoke is home to a whopping seven of the division's 20 competitors, with online betting sites making one of them - namely Arsenal - a +300 contender to win the title this season.
But it isn't just the beautiful game in which London has made a name. The city’s marathon has been a must-see event for some time now. The marquee race is broadcast annually via the BBC, with the famous broadcaster dedicating hours of lucrative Sunday morning airtime to the showdown.
First held in 1981, the race is a relatively new one in the grand scheme of things, but its scenic route along the River Thames and past historic landmarks like Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace has seen it become one of the most popular on the planet, both for participants and for viewers.
Several British stars have seen their popularity skyrocket by winning on the iconic streets of the Big Smoke. Sir Mo Farah was already an icon after his heroics at London 2012, but he saw his stock rise even further when he finished third in the race in 2018. Local hero Paula Radcliffe's star was born when she won the race and set a women's world record in the process back in 2003. As well as what transpires in the race itself, the showcase also prides itself on its charitable work, raising over £66m for various causes in the last few years alone.
Berlin
The Berlin Marathon is synonymous with world records. Held since 1974, the flat and fast course through Germany's capital has seen numerous records smashed, including Eliud Kipchoge's groundbreaking world record of 2:01:39 set six years ago. The route highlights the East German city's vibrant history and architecture, drawing runners through iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate.
The Capital City showcase is a key event in Germany's sporting calendar, with significant economic benefits due to tourism and international participation. It is often the stage for breaking barriers, such as the first marathon record under 2:20 set by Naoko Takahashi in 2001, enhancing its reputation as a race in which the best can truly mark their mark.
Contact information
- Event contact
