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The Story of the Marathon
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The modern marathon has its origin in an historical event of the year
490 B.C. In that year the great battle of Marathon was fought between
the Greeks and the invading Persians. In spite of the far greater
numbers of the Persian army, the Greeks won a glorious victory. Now, in
the ranks of the Greek army was a famous runner named Pheidippides, who
had won many a prize in the Games. When the Persians had been put to
flight, the Greek general sent Pheidippides to run with the news of the
victory to Athens (the capital of Greece), distant nearly 25 miles,
where those unable to fight were awaiting anxiously the result of the
battle. Pheidippides, although tired by his share in the battle, at
once set off on his long journey. In time the strain of the task began
to tell upon him, and it was only by a great effort that he was able to
continue his course. At last, with aching limbs and faltering step, he
came in sight of the city. The Athenians, seeing him in the distance,
ran eagerly to meet him; falling into the arms of the foremost of them,
the runner with his last breath gasped, "Rejoice, we conquer". Even as
the joyful words left his lips, Pheidippides sank lifeless in the arms
that held him, and his brave spirit went forth on its last journey to
meet the Heroes of the Past.
"So, when Persia was dust, all cried, 'To Akropolis!
Run, Pheidippides, one race more! the meed is thy due!
"Athens is saved, thank Pan," go shout!' He flung down his shield
Ran like fire once more: and the space 'twixt the Fennel-field
And Athens was stubble again, a field which a fire runs through,
Till in he broke: 'Rejoice, we conquer!' Like wine through clay,
Joy in his blood bursting his heart, he died--the bliss!"
ROBERT BROWNING--Pheidippides.
Further Resources
- Read the 5th century B.C. historian Herodotus's description of Philippides's run to Sparta in his Histories.
- Visit the official site of the Olympics.
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© Copyright, Markjo Corporation, 2004
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