The word Marathon conjures up various images. For those out there with a dash of Classical learning, the picture of an exhausted and somewhat sweaty Athenian herald named Phidippides, announcing the Greek victory over the Persians to the Demos before he keels over and dies is usually at the forefront of our minds. For others it’s normally a picture of man dressed in a chicken suit or in antique diving gear.
The word marathon and indeed the whole notion of the idea, does of course relate to the 25m/40km run accomplished by Phidippides after the Greek success at the Battle of Marathon in 490BC. Nowadays, as well as referring to a race of a specific distance, the word
marathon can also be used to describe an epic, arduous and lengthy task.
Without further ado, here’s the Badgers top 10 most unusual marathon ideas.
5) Run a real Marathon. Not the most unusual or original idea, but historically apt. The London Marathon is one of the most celebrated and publicised events, it also happens to be one of the biggest annual fundraising
charity events in the world.
4) The Festival Marathon. Try and visit or participate in all the big UK festival events, including the Isle of Wight, Glastonbury, Reading/Leeds and V Festival. If you’re feeling adventurous try and visit one festival in 25 countries around the world.
3) The Top Shelf Marathon. Drinking the top shelf is often incredibly dangerous and not one that I would recommend, but you could try and work your way through the top shelf of your local bar. A head for spirits is definitely needed for this one.
2) The
Iditarod Sled Dog Race. One of the hardest competitions in the world, the Iditarod Sled Race covers over 1,868km of frozen Alaskan terrain. The fastest winning time is recorded at 8 days 22hours and 46mins. Competitors often have to deal with zero visibility, freezing temperatures, sleep deprivation and treacherous conditions.
1) The Star Wars Marathon. Possibly one of the hardest events in the galaxy. The event includes a great deal of beer, munchies and geekery. Working your way through approx 19hours of Star Wars can be tough, especially when you have to force yourself to watch The Phantom Menace... However, perseverance will ultimately lead to watching some of the best cinematography and dialogue in film history. Anyone who disputes the brilliance of The Empire Strikes Back, please leave now....
