Running from Marathon to Athens

On Sunday, October 31, Vincenzo joined 20,000 runners in the Athens Classic Marathon. This year marked 2500 years since the 42km distance was first covered by a Greek messenger running from Marathon to Athens to spread word of victory in battle.

This is Vincenzo finishing the race in the Panathinaiko Stadium, used for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 - the Games that saw the introduction of the competitive marathon race. (Vincenzo’s time was 3:47:10.)

Here are two versions of the “original” finish in 490 BC.

“The Soldier of Marathon Announcing the Victory.”

Marble sculpture by Jean-Pierre Corlot (1787-1843).

“We Have Won.”

Oil painting by Oliver Merson (1846-1920).

Athens for the 2010 Marathon

We just returned from Athens where Vincenzo ran in the Athens Classic Marathon. It was his second full marathon race, and his time was 10 minutes better than his Rome Marathon in March, 2010.

Athens airport banner announcing the Marathon.

Vincenzo's race "prep notes"

estimating when he will arrive at check points.

Eating the traditional before race bowl of pasta.

(Larry had the delicious moussaka seen in the foreground.)

Vincenzo in the stadium (seventh runner from the left) approaching the finish.

After the race with balloon and flowers.