From Publishers Weekly
The modern marathon was inaugurated at the 1896 Olympics; the following year, the Boston Athletic Association began an American version, so the 1996 Boston race will be the centennial of what is indisputably the most prestigious running event in the nation. Held on April 19, the anniversary of the battle of Lexington, the race has a rich history, its most notable contestants including Clarence DeMar, who won seven times between 1911 and 1930 and last ran in 1954 at the age of 65; John A. Kelley, who first competed in 1928, ran his 61st and last marathon in 1992 and is immortalized with a statue; and Michael Dukakis, who went on to fame in other endeavors. The Boston, as runners call it, was a largely North American event until 1946, when air travel brought contestants from all over the world and saw the first European winner; in the next 27 years, only three Americans won. The first female participant, Roberta Gibb, ran unofficially in 1966, and women became official entrants six years later. Prize money was first offered in 1986; and the race, which had drawn 15 runners in 1897, now attracts thousands. Higdon (Run Fast) has put together an absorbing history, with 200-plus photos and dozens of sidebars.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Anyone who has tried distance running at one time or another considers the Boston Marathon as the mecca of the 26.2 milers. In 1996, Boston will host its 100th marathon. Higdon, a writer for Runner's World magazine, has compiled an inspirational volume endorsed by the Boston Athletic Association as the official collector's edition. Higdon's passion for running is evident as he traces the origins of the race, highlighting the legends and the many "ordinary people" who make the annual event a great occassion. This work is a unique title featuring an assortment of archival photographs and anecdotes and will unquestionably be treasured as a memento by all running fans. Recommended for regional and large running collections.?L.R. Little, Penticton P.L., British Columbia
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.