July 24, 1908 - first 26.2 mile marathon

Today is Thursday, July 24th, 2025 and on this day in 1908, 55 men ran the Olympic marathon, which was the first ever to measure 26.2 miles.

In today's episode, we'll discuss how exactly the race organizers settled on that seemingly random distance, hear about the controversial first place finish that ended in a DQ, and learn what odd assortments of refreshments were available at marathon aid stations in the early 20th century.

This episode was edited and produced by my good friend and confidant, Rob Garcia. Check out his podcast, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Rob on the Run on Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or on Instagram as @robontherunpod.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, subscribe, and share, then connect with me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram as well at @running_up_that_hillary⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or check out my website at runningupthathillary.com.

Bibliography:

• https://web.archive.org/web/20130116164837/http://www.la84foundation.org/6oic/OfficialReports/1908/1908.pdf#page=84
• https://www.olympedia.org/results/56369
• https://www.olympics.com/ioc/news/london-1908-a-short-notice-replacement-for-rome
• https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/images/olympics/records/previews/mepo2-1156-route-of-marathon-1908.jpg
• https://www.olympics.com/en/olympic-games/london-1908/results/athletics/marathon-men