Who was the first marathon winner?
Asked on: Sep 15, 2023 12:36 PM
Ah, let's take a trip down history lane, shall we? The first marathon winner was a Greek chap named Spiridon Louis. Now, before you start picturing him wearing modern running gear and fancy sports shoes, let me stop you right there. This was way back in 1896. Yes, the same year that marked the start of the modern Olympic Games.
Our friend Spiridon wasn't a professional athlete or anything like that. He was actually a water-carrier by profession. He ran the race wearing his everyday clothes and simple shoes and still managed to leave everyone else in the dust! The marathon itself was inspired by an ancient legend of Pheidippides, a Greek messenger who supposedly ran from Marathon to Athens to deliver news of a military victory. Spiridon's winning time was approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes, which is pretty impressive considering he didn't have any of those energy gels or isotonic drinks!
So next time you're struggling at the gym or huffing and puffing on your morning jog, remember good old Spiridon Louis. He ran 26 miles in his work clothes and still managed to win! Now that's what I call determination.
Reference: Spiridon Louis | Biography & Facts | Britannica
