The Boston Marathon is the world's oldest annual marathon and ranks as one of the world's most prestigious road racing events. A Boston tradition for more than 112 years, the 26 mile, 385 yard Boston Marathon has distinguished itself as the pinnacle event within the sport of road racing by virtue of its traditions, longevity and method of gaining entry into the race.
To qualify to run the Boston Marathon, entrants must run a qualifying time at a certified marathon. In 2007 more than 20000 runners completed the race.

The 115th annual Boston Marathon will take place on Patriots' Day, April 18, 2011. Not only is Boston the oldest annual marathon in the world, it is also known by thousands of runners as the most prestigious due to its strict qualifying standards and its hilly course

Up to 38,000 professional and amateur runners have participated every year, but this year, only a little more than 26,000 runners will be able to register for the Boston Marathon.