Boston Marathon

Widely considered the pinnacle of marathon competitions, the Boston Marathon has been a treasured tradition in Greater Boston since 1897. Sponsored by John Hancock Financial Services and managed by the Boston Athletic Association, the annual marathon is hosted on the third Monday of April and is open to both professionals and amateurs alike.

To participate, entrants must meet strict qualifications and adhere to certain rules of conduct. The 26-mile trek is notoriously challenging, often taking runners through varied topography and extreme weather. Despite this, as many as 30,000 people register to compete each year, out of a total spectator turnout of over 500,000.

In 1996, the Centennial Boston Marathon achieved a record-breaking 38,708 entrants, 36,748 starters and 35,868 finishers, cementing its status as one of the most widely participated sporting events in New England.