1001 Space Earth Nature History Human World Prehistoric People Human Body: Systems Human Body: Organs Religions and Festivals Architecture and Buildings Sports and Pastimes Russia and the Middle East Asia Africa Europe North America South America Australasia Polar Regions Science and Technology

How did the marathon race get its name? The marathon is named in honour of the defeat of the Persian army by the Athenians at Marathon, near Athens, in 490 BC. Pheidippides, a Greek runner, ran to give the news to the people of Athens, but died as he did so. The first modern marathon was run in honour of this event at the 1896 Athens Olympics. Plan of the Battle of Marathon   Previous: Back Book: 1001 Section: Human World Chapter: Sports and Pastimes