Why the Boston Marathon Feels Personal; Even Though I've Never Run It

I grew up just one town over from the starting line of the Boston Marathon. It was always there, part of the rhythm of spring, long before I ever considered myself a runner. Back then, I didn’t think much about what it meant to cover 26.2 miles. Honestly, I still don’t have the desire to run a marathon myself. I respect the distance too much.

But my appreciation for the race? That’s only grown.

There’s something powerful about watching people take on this course. Whether they’re elite athletes or everyday runners raising money for causes close to their hearts. The “why” doesn’t matter as much as the commitment. Because showing up for Boston takes more than training; it takes a mindset.

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few things about this iconic race. Some are historical. Some are surprising. All of them deepen my respect for what it represents.

More Than a Race: The Meaning Behind Marathon Monday

One of the most unique things about Boston? It’s always run on a Monday. Not just any Monday; Patriots' Day.

This state holiday commemorates the Battles of Lexington and Concord, marking the start of the American Revolutionary War. Since 1897, the marathon has been part of that tradition, tying together history and sport in a way few events can.

There’s a deeper symbolism here. The race isn’t just about endurance; it’s about perseverance. The same spirit that fueled the fight for independence shows up in every runner pushing through those final miles. Whether you’re racing or spectating, you can feel it.

Breaking Barriers: The Women Who Changed the Race

It’s hard to imagine now, but women weren’t always allowed to officially run Boston. In fact, it wasn’t until 1972 that they could register.

Before that, women had to get creative and courageous.

In the late 1960s, some snuck into the race, hiding near the start and blending in once it began. They wore oversized clothing to avoid attention, determined to prove they belonged. At the time, there were even widespread myths suggesting women weren’t physically capable of running long distances.

They proved otherwise.

Their efforts weren’t just about finishing a race, they were about changing perceptions. And they did. Today, women line up at the start as equals, thanks to those who refused to accept the limits placed on them.

A Course Like No Other

The Boston Marathon course is legendary and a little controversial.

Technically, it doesn’t qualify for world records. Why? It’s a point-to-point route with a net downhill, and it can benefit from strong tailwinds. Because of that, governing bodies don’t recognize times set here as official world records.

But here’s where I might offer a slightly unpopular opinion: historically, marathons were point-to-point. That’s part of the tradition. So, in a way, Boston staying true to that format feels… right.

And let’s be honest, anyone who’s seen Heartbreak Hill knows this course is no easy ride. Downhill or not, it demands respect.

The Oldest of Them All

Boston holds another distinction; it’s the oldest continuously run annual marathon in the world.

Inspired by the marathon’s debut at the 1896 Summer Olympics, the first Boston race took place in 1897. Just fifteen runners lined up that day. Fifteen.

Now, it’s a global event drawing tens of thousands of participants and even more spectators. What started small has become something enormous, yet it’s never lost its sense of purpose.

Why It Still Matters to Me

I may never run a marathon. I’m okay with that.

But the Boston Marathon? It’ll always mean something to me.

Maybe it’s because I grew up so close to it. Maybe it’s the history, or the stories, or the energy that takes over the entire region every spring. Or maybe it’s simply this: it reminds me what people are capable of when they commit to something bigger than themselves.

And for runners like us, the everyday, figuring-it-out-as-we-go kind. That’s more than enough inspiration to lace up and head out the door.