A marathon is a long-distance running event that covers a distance of 42.195 kilometers (26.2 miles). It is typically held on roads and can be participated in by both amateur and professional runners. Marathons are often organized as races, with participants competing for time or simply to complete the distance. The origin of the marathon dates back to ancient Greece, specifically the story of Pheidippides, a soldier who ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to deliver news of victory. Today, marathons are popular worldwide, with major events like the Boston Marathon and the New York City Marathon attracting thousands of runners and spectators.