Finisher’s Medal Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of March as the official recognition of the rigorous training that thousands of men and women undergo for a marathon. This year, it takes place on March 1. The day recognizes all those who cross the finish line, regardless of their pace. Just like an accolade of participation, the day is observed in honor of the strength and endurance of the runners. Since 2018, Finisher’s Medal Day has uplifted and celebrated thousands of runners who participate in marathons across the United States.
History of Finisher’s Medal Day
More than 800 marathons are organized throughout the world in a single year. People from all walks of life are invited and encouraged to participate in these events. Teachers, nurses, engineers, plumbers, students, workers, and so on — a marathon is one of the most homogeneous events of the year.
The word ‘marathon’ comes from the Greek city of Marathon, which served as a battlefield in 490 B.C. Soon after the conclusion of the battle, a soldier named Pheidippides was sent to Athens to convey the news of the victory of Greece. Parched and run-down, the soldier ran for 25 miles without any breaks to deliver the message. Upon his arrival at the foothold of Athens, the first-ever marathon runner collapsed and died. Centuries later, the legend of Pheidippides was used as a pitch for multiple miles-long running events in the Olympics of 1896.
Today, a marathon is one of the most popular sporting events in the world. On February 5, 2018, Little Rock Marathon declared the first Sunday of March as Finisher’s Medal Day. Finisher’s Medal Day honors the spirit of competition and the strength to make it to the final mile. There’s more to the race than winning. The day honors the spirit of participation above all and celebrates the fact that everyday workers bend their routines to include an hour of training for the marathon.
Finisher’s Medal Day timeline
Marathon is included as one of the events in the original modern Olympics for the first time.
Seeking inspiration from the Summer Olympics, the first-ever marathon in America is inaugurated in Boston.
The women's marathon is introduced at the Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles, U.S.
Little Rock Marathon designates the first Sunday of March as Finisher’s Medal Day.
Finisher’s Medal Day FAQs
Is running a marathon difficult?
Running a marathon is difficult and physically straining, especially for beginners and non-athletic people. It is advised to practice for the run at least six months before you actually get the main day.
Can you win the marathon?
The first finishers are declared the winner. Although a marathon is not exactly designed to simply honor the winners but to celebrate the activity of running.
What is the ideal diet of a marathon runner?
Marathon runners maintain a balanced diet consisting of carbs, proteins, fiber, and fats. Foods such as eggs, sweet potatoes, whole grains, salmon, and mixed salads are encouraged, while high-fat food groups, sodas, and fried stuff are avoided for the period of the run.
Finisher’s Medal Day Activities
Gear up for a marathon
Marathons happen all year round and are a great way to leap into the regimen of a runner. The glorious spring of March is the perfect time to sign up for one as well. Take the chance of a lifetime by signing up for this year’s marathon (and tag a friend along).
Support the runners
There are many ways to support the runners. Charts, signs, and sirens, all help in boosting the morale of the people. Stand across the barricades and cheer for the spirited athletes or take up the sidewalk and showcase your lemonade stand.
Try something new
Pick up a hobby, join a volunteer group, or create content online. Just as the Finisher’s Medal Day honors the participants who take the time out of their busy lives to train for the marathon, you too can carve out life out for yourself just for the sake of it.
5 Interesting Facts About Marathons
The accidental invention
The marathon is an ode to Greek soldier Pheidippides, who covered 25 miles without stopping to deliver the news of Greek victory to the city of Athens.
The hardest run
The Inca Trail Marathon is considered to be the most difficult marathon in the world, featuring extreme inclines and declines in latitudes.
A run for cause
The London Marathon is the largest annual fundraising event in the world, collecting more than £770 million in charity since its launch in 1981.
The Queen’s intervention
The standard 26.2 miles distance of the marathon comes after the Queen of Britain extended it to ensure the participation of her children.
Glory to Boston
The Boston Marathon is the oldest marathon in the world, happening since 1897.
Why We Love Finisher’s Medal Day
It keeps you fit
The benefits of training for a marathon include the build-up of cardiovascular and muscular endurance. Runners have also admitted to experiencing the euphoria of the run, with significant changes in mental health that include a reduction in mood swings, anxiety control, a boost in self-esteem, and many others.
Every participant matters
When it comes to a marathon, what matters is not winning medals but the commitment to cover the miles as they come. In many races of the world, the final finisher is recognized for their perseverance and will to finish the race.
It builds healthy habits
We uncover the secrets about ourselves with every mile covered. Training for a marathon is a transformational experience that can teach you important lessons regarding your mental, emotional, and physical capabilities. The process is all about pushing your limits and building a sense of camaraderie with your fellow runners.
Finisher’s Medal Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | March 3 | Sunday |
| 2025 | March 2 | Sunday |
| 2026 | March 1 | Sunday |
