The Boston Marathon is the world's oldest annual marathon and ranks as one of the world's most prestigious road racing events. The event began in 1897, inspired by the success of the first modern-day marathon competition in the 1896 Summer Olympics. It is always held on Patriots' Day, the third Monday of April.
The Boston Athletic Association manages this American classic, which is sponsored by John Hancock Financial Services. The Boston Marathon has distinguished itself as the pinnacle event within the sport of road racing by virtue of its traditions, longevity and method of gaining entry into the race (via qualification).
The event attracts 500,000 spectators each year, making it New England's most widely viewed sporting event. Though starting with 18 participants in 1897, the event now attracts an average of about 30,000 registered participants each year.
