Athens Classic Marathon

In the eyes of Athenians, the Athens Classic Marathon revives the story of Pheidippides, a Greek hero who run from the city of Marathon to announce the victory of Athenians over Persians in 490 BC, after announcing the news he collapsed and died. The story of Pheidippides, inspired the committee of the first modern Olympic Games held in Athens in summer 1896, and decided to hold a race from Marathon to Athens. This first Marathon was won by Spiridon Louis, an Athenian from Marousi, whose victory set off celebrations all over Athens. Today, Athens Classic Marathon is held every year in early November. It attracts thousands of runners from all over the world. Besides the classical Marathon distance there are side races of 5km (3.1 mile) and 10km (6.2 mile) and race walking contest. Children are not forgotten in this event, a one km race from Syntagma Square to the Panathenaic Stadium is specially dedicated for them. Related Links Athens Classic Marathon Official Site Pheidippides [wikipedia] Spiridon Louis [wikipedia] Battle of Marathon [wikipedia] 2016 Athens Classic Marathon Photos 31st Athens Classic Marathon Photos