Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America, is the oldest annual marathon in the world and a crown jewel of global distance running. First held in 1897, it’s now one of the World Marathon Majors and takes place each Patriots’ Day, the third Monday of April. The point-to-point course starts in Hopkinton and winds through eight Massachusetts towns before finishing on Boylston Street in Boston. Entry is limited to qualified runners, charity entrants, and elite athletes, making it one of the most competitive and iconic marathons in existence. Runners face rolling hills—including the infamous Heartbreak Hill—cheered on by half a million spectators, from Wellesley’s scream tunnel to the electric final stretch. Managed by the Boston Athletic Association, the marathon open to both professionals and amateurs alike. Boston’s net downhill course is deceivingly tough, and a qualifying time (aka the “BQ”) is one of the most sought-after credentials in distance running.