0_Apprentice
I have started running in marathons and it's something I really enjoy.
1_Wizard
I love running as well, i realize it was one of the olympic events and was started in 1896
0_Apprentice
Oh wow that is a long time ago. It is a great sense of accomplishment to do it
1_Wizard
These days they are used to support causes. Like running for cancer and all that.  800 marathons are held throughout the world each year,
0_Apprentice
That is a lot. I usually enter them with some work friends and we will go on a Saturday or something. Need to prepare long before that though
1_Wizard
Yes there are. It is funny how the name come about though, I read that Marathon" comes from the legend of Philippides 
0_Apprentice
What is the legend of Philippides?
1_Wizard
is the central figure in the story that inspired a modern sporting event, the marathon race. fabled run of the Greek soldier Pheidippides, a messenger from the Battle of Marathon to Athens, who reported the victory.