Longest running race in Olympics?

The Marathon is historically the longest running race in the modern Olympic Games, covering a distance of 42.195 kilometers (26 miles and 385 yards). This iconic event commemorates the legendary run of Pheidippides from Marathon to Athens to announce the Greek victory over the Persians. While other races like the 50 km race exist in athletics, the question specifically asks for a "running race," and the 50 km event is typically a race walk, not a pure running event in the same category as the Marathon. The Marathon is a cornerstone of the Olympic track and field program.

• The 4x400 relay is a shorter team event.
• The 10,000 meters is a long-distance track event but significantly shorter than the Marathon.
• The 50 km is a race walk, not a running race, making it distinct from the Marathon in terms of athletic discipline.