Long-distance running

A record number of runners are expected to participate in the world's only transcontinental marathon.

How has running changed since the first marathon in Ljubljana and what are the ways that the organisation of marathons has changed?

Greece is gearing up for the 36th version of Spartathlon, the ultramarathon race that covers 246 kilometers from Athens to Sparta and starts on Friday.

Treading on the footsteps of ancient messenger Pheidippides, the grueling race will this year have 387 participants who hail from 51 countries. They once again include Greek American ultramarathon superstar Dean Karnazis.

A marathon runner's dramatic collapse struck a sour note on the last day of the Commonwealth Games on April 15 as hosts Australia finished runaway winners on the medals table with 80 golds.

Istanbul hosts athletes for marathon

Tens of thousands of runners braved smoggy conditions for the Delhi half marathon on Nov. 19 despite dire health warnings from doctors who wanted the race postponed in the heavily-polluted capital.

Thousands of people participated in the 39th Istanbul Marathon, the world’s only cross-continental race held for the future of the children this year.

Participants in Beirut’s annual marathon usually run to support medical research or human rights. But this year, Lebanese racers have opted for another cause: their missing prime minister.

The 35th Athens Authentic Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 12. The event, which includes a total of 7 races, will result in the implementation of traffic diversions and road closures.

Over 18,500 runners from 101 different countries will participate at the 35th annual Authentic Marathon, which will take place in Athens on the 12th of November.

Most of the athletes that will compete on the 42.195m route come from the UK (1,054), Italy (1,000), the USA (834), France (815) and Germany (741).