0
It is because in ancient Greece, a messenger from Marathon, Greece, had to deliver a message to Athens, Greece, so he ran 26.2 miles to get there, then dropped dead before he could deliver the message to the king.
The original Marathon was during an ancient Greek war. A messenger delivered a message after running 26 miles, then died.
Still curious? Ask our experts.
Chat with our AI personalities
JordanLooking for a career mentor? I've seen my fair share of shake-ups.
Chat with Jordan
EzraFaith is not about having all the answers, but learning to ask the right questions.
Chat with Ezra
DevinI've poured enough drinks to know that people don't always want advice—they just want to talk.
Chat with DevinAdd your answer:
Earn +20 ptsQ: Why is a marathon 26 miles long?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
Continue Learning about Music & Radio
When was Workin' with The Miles Davis Quintet created?
Workin' with The Miles Davis Quintet was created on 1956-10-26.
How old was Miles Davis when he died?
1961
What is about 1 mile deep 277 miles long and varies from 1 to 18 miles long?
The Grand Canyon. The canyon is 277 miles long, ranges in width from 4 to 18 miles and attains a depth of more than a mile.
When was Marathon - Rush song - created?
Marathon - Rush song - was created on 1985-10-29.
From Miami to Florida keys in miles?
The Keys are 120 miles long. Miami to Key West is 159 miles.
Trending Questions
What are the lyrics to the Franz Ferdinand song Take Me Out?
How does Aaron Douglas shows in his painting song of the towers that African Americans are living in moder times?
What were the positive results of Woodstock?
What part does Bruno mars sing in young wild and free?
What is the web address of the Florida Keys History And Diving Museum in Islamorada Florida?
Where can i get a complete list of music terms?
When was Tacklebox created?
How do i break up with my wife?
Does a day to remember cuss?
Is there a standard amount for Utah speeding violations?
Does marshall mathers have full custody of all his children?
Is pixie lot ticklish?
How old is Donnie Steele of Slipknot?
How do you use the word hiatus in a sentence?
How old is cheryl Cole's dad?
How many number one singles has Blondie had?
Who is the lead singer for metro station?
What happened to Matt dillons daughter Beths mother Mike on the tv show gunsmoke how did she die?
What are advantages and disadvantages of speakers?
What word pair represents the two main concepts behind Baroque music?
Copyright ©2025 Infospace Holdings LLC, A System1 Company. All Rights Reserved. The material on this site can not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with prior written permission of Answers.