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marathons are 26 miles long because as legend has it, after the athenian warriors held off a Persian invasion at the city of marathon in ancient Greece. A messenger ran from marathon to Athens to let the people know the news. It was apparently 26 miles some say 40,000 metres. still a long bloody way!any how the guy arrived at Athens and apparently dropped dead from exaustion. I guess the st.johns ambulance were off that day!
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Earn +20 ptsQ: Why are marathons 26 miles long?
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Continue Learning about General History
How long were the ancient Greek races?
26 Miles long!
How long is the Olympic marathon race?
The race is 42.195 kilometers.An ordinary marathon is a tiny bit shorter at 46,145 yards (26 miles + 385 yards, about 26.22 miles).26 miles and 385 yards.
Did girls run marathons in ancient Egypt?
Egypt did not have marathons, this is a product of modern sports.
How did Phidippides die?
Phidippides died of exhaustion after a long run of approximately 42 Km.. That is why marathons nowadays are 42.35 Kilometers long in track :)
How long did an torch relay race last in ancient Greece?
A marathon was 26 miles in Ancient Greece. This is because Philippides was given the task to run from Athens to Sparta to deliver important information. The distance was 26 miles.
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