In Photos: The 130th Boston Marathon

oston hosted its 130th Marathon last Monday, bringing more than 30,000 competitors, 10,000 volunteers, and an estimated 500,000 spectators traveling from around the world. Held on the state-wide holiday Patriots Day, Marathon Monday is a patented Boston tradition.

Because of its international prestige, the Boston Marathon attracts participants from around the world; this year, runners from 137 nationalities were represented.

Pride in Boston’s history and traditions is always a prominent feature of the lively crowd. Spectators show up in elaborate costumes, occasionally dressed in colonial attire. Handmade signs poke fun at the participants while also paying homage to past marathons. The slogan “Boston Strong” commemorates the tragedy of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing.

Averaging at a pace of 4:39 a mile, John Korir from Kenya wins his second straight Boston Marathon and breaks the course record with a race time of 2:01:52.

Sharon Lokedi of Kenya wins her second straight Boston Marathon at 2:18:51.

While marathon races are highly competitive, most participants run to complete the race rather than to win, as finishing the 26.2-mile course is an achievement in itself.

A composite capturing the stride of a Boston Marathon runner in motion.

A composite of the impressive arm strength of a Boston Marathon participant competing in the Wheelchair Division.

Boston’s streets are packed with spectators, climbing any vantage point to catch a glimpse of the runners.

Elite athletes speed by as spectators stand four to five people deep, hoping for a glimpse of the race.

The crowds cheer as more than 30,000 runners take part in this year’s marathon.

Nearing the end of the course, runners begin a final downhill push towards the finish line.

After crossing the hallowed finish line, runners rejoin the cheering crowds wrapped in marathon ponchos, designed to help regulate body heat after the race.

One of the most prestigious marathons in the world, the Boston Marathon is run by only the most dedicated. Years of training and perseverance are channeled into a few intense hours, with screaming crowds and 30,000 fellow competitors pushing toward the finish line.