The Boston Marathon is an annual 26.2 mile race that has been held since 1897. It is one of the most famous marathons in the world and attracts over 500,000 spectators and 20,000 runners each year. However, in 2013 two bombs exploded at the finish line, killing three people and injuring over 150. While this was a tragedy, Americans are optimistic and committed to continuing the marathon tradition in future years.

1. Boston Marathon
©Faiza Raintree [faiza-raintree.blogspot.com] INT-ADV
Have you ever run in a race? The Boston Marathon is one of the world's most famous races. It has been
in the news many times, for example, when Kenyan runner Geoffrey Mutai set a world running record in
2011. This year, the Boston Marathon has been in the news more than ever.
The Boston Marathon is an annual marathon. It takes place every year in the Boston area. It is always
held on the 3rd Monday in April. The Boston Marathon was first started in 1897 by the Boston Athletic
Association. This same organization still runs the event. To complete the race, one must run a distance of
26 miles and 385 yards.
The Boston Marathon has grown each year, so that it is now one of Boston's biggest events. Starting with
only 18 people in 1897, the event now brings more than half a million fans each year to the race. More
than twenty thousand people also run in the marathon each year.
Anyone who qualifies can run in the Boston Marathon. In fact, runners from all over the world come to
Boston each year to compete. A runner must be over the age of 18 and have completed a marathon
before. Many different kinds of people compete in this race. For example, people who use wheelchairs or
have other disabilities participate and can also win prizes.
It is not easy to run a marathon. Yet the Boston Marathon is one of the hardest. There are many hills to
run through. Also, Boston can be cold and rainy in April. Runners must complete the 26-mile race, no
matter the terrain and weather.
The Boston Marathon has always been a joyous event celebrating health, fitness, and sportsmanship.
Families come to support runners. People of all ages enjoy being a part of this famous race, and
celebrating with the winners. The winners are awarded large prizes. The first man and woman to complete
the race receive $100,000. There are also prizes for 2nd and 3rd place, and for winners with disabilities.
This year, the Boston Marathon started out as a happy event as usual. However, it tragically turned into a
terrible event. Towards the end of the race, this year, two bombs exploded near a crowd of spectators.
The bombs were placed in pressure cookers hidden in backpacks. Two Americans and a Chinese woman
died in the explosions. Among those killed was an eight-year old boy named Martin Richard. More than
150 people were also injured. Several people who were hurt had to have arms or legs amputated. People
are not sure how or why this happened. Everyone is looking for answers as to who could have committed
such a terrible crime.
Americans are believed to be unusually optimistic and good at "bouncing back". They will always
remember this tragedy. Yet, one can expect Bostonians and Americans to remain committed to
maintaining the tradition of this famous marathon. And who knows? It may be that next year will bring
more runners than ever before.
1. What is a marathon?
2. Why is the Boston Marathon so popular?
3. For how many years has the Boston Marathon been held?
4. How was this year's marathon different from marathons in past years?
5. What is meant by "bouncing back"?
6. After what happened this year in Boston, would you run next year if you could? Why or why not?
7. How will the Boston Marathon be different next year than this year, in negative and positive ways?
8. Draw a line under every simple past verb and a double line under present perfect verb.

2. Boston Marathon
©Faiza Raintree [faiza-raintree.blogspot.com] INT-ADV