1908 London Olympics and the Marathon distance standardization
The marathon distance was standardized at 42,195 m in 1924.
The marathon distance at the Olympics was standardized at 42,195 m in 1924, the distance that was run at the 1908 Olympics.
- Character
- 1908 London Olympics Marathon
- Role
- Defining event that standardized the marathon distance
- Affiliation
- International Olympic Committee, British Olympic Association
- First appears
- 1908 London Olympics
- Status
- Historic milestone in Olympic and athletic history
Lore & Background
In other years, the distances have been: 1896: 40,000 m (approximately); 1900: (not specified); 1904: (not specified); 1912: (not specified); 1920: (not specified).
In Their Own Story
His legs, heavy as lead, refused to obey. He fell. The crowd gasped. He rose, only to fall again. Officials rushed to his side, supporting him as he lurched forward. In the royal box, Queen Alexandra watched, her opera glasses fixed on the staggering figure. With each collapse, the stadium held its breath. Finally, Pietri crossed the line, but the victory was not his. The help he received disqualified him, but his name would be etched into Olympic lore forever.
Reader's Guide
The source article does not mention any relocation of the 1908 Olympics or the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
Did You Know?
- The marathon distance was standardized at 42,195 m in 1924, matching the distance run at the 1908 Olympics.
- The 1896 marathon distance was approximately 40,000 m.
More in Games & Host Cities
Elsewhere in the The Olympics universe
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