#Paris #France #AIMS #Marathon #Michel Bréal

AIMS Honors Michel Bréal as Marathon's Founder Emeritus

The Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) has officially recognized Michel Bréal, the visionary behind the modern marathon, by bestowing upon him the honorary title of 'Founder Emeritus.' This announcement comes alongside the establishment of September 15 as an annual global 'Marathon Day,' meant to commemorate the birth of the marathon as we know it today.

Celebrating a Legacy

On September 15, 1894, Bréal penned a letter to Pierre de Coubertin in which he proposed the idea of organizing a race from Marathon to the Pnyx Hill, incorporating an ancient tradition into the modern Olympic Games. Fast forward over a century later, this day will be marked every year, bringing together running enthusiasts from around the globe to celebrate the sport and its rich history.

To honor Bréal’s contribution, AIMS has funded a complete restoration of his grave located at Montparnasse Cemetery in Paris, including a new memorial stone. This initiative was a collaborative effort involving AIMS, ARTMARATHON, and the Michel Bréal Society, affirming the importance of preserving Bréal’s legacy. The official restoration ceremony will take place on the same day, September 15, 2026, featuring notable figures from the athletics community, including AIMS President Paco Borao, and descendants of Bréal.

The Birth of the Marathon

Bréal, who served as a professor and was a famed classical philologist, never participated in a marathon himself; nevertheless, his impact on the sport is undeniable. During the historic Sorbonne Congress on June 23, 1894, he took a prominent role and later articulated his vision. His letter expressing the desire for a marathon event was pivotal in transforming an athletic concept into a globally celebrated race.
The initial marathon race was held at the 1896 Athens Olympics, featuring a route inspired by Bréal’s idea. The first Olympic champion, Spyridon Louis, was awarded a trophy commissioned by Bréal himself, marking a historic moment for both athletics and Olympic history.

The 2026 Ceremony

At the ceremony on September 15, 2026, AIMS is set to honor Bréal's significant contributions to the sport of marathon running. The scheduled program includes speeches from Paco Borao and representatives of the Michel Bréal Society, as well as an engaging discussion on the marathon's influence in modern Greece and around the world. Henrietta Parsons, Bréal’s great-great-granddaughter, will also reflect on her family’s legacy.

Bréal’s story is a perfect illustration of how one individual’s vision can create an enduring impact—introducing a world-class event that millions now participate in annually.

Looking Ahead

AIMS, representing over 470 of the world’s leading marathons across more than 120 countries, is devoted to celebrating the historical roots of long-distance running. The launch of 'Marathon Day' is a fitting tribute to Bréal and an invitation for runners and enthusiasts worldwide to commemorate the marathon each September 15.

As we approach the inaugural 'Marathon Day,' it’s not just a chance to remember Bréal's contributions, but also an opportunity to inspire new generations to embrace running and the spirit of athleticism that he so passionately supported. AIMS continues to champion the legacy of distance running, ensuring that the contributions of historical figures like Bréal are not forgotten and are celebrated for years to come.