The outcome of the 108th running of this historic race, held on April 19, 2004, provides a snapshot of competitive running at the elite level. It encapsulates data on finishing times, rankings of competitive runners, and potentially details on age group winners and participants from various countries. This data offers a point of comparison for analyzing athletic performance across different years and understanding trends in marathon running.
Data from this particular race holds historical significance, capturing a specific moment in the long and storied history of the Boston Marathon. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers studying athletic performance, training regimens, and the evolution of competitive running. Access to this information allows for the analysis of individual achievements and provides context for understanding the broader landscape of the sport in 2004. Additionally, the information can be used to inspire current runners and inform future training strategies.
Further exploration could delve into the specific winning times, noteworthy performances, and any significant events surrounding the 2004 race. Analysis of training methods employed by top finishers, as well as examination of the demographic data of participants, could offer additional insights. Examining media coverage from the time would provide valuable social and cultural context.
1. Winning Times
Winning times are a crucial component of any race result, and the 2004 Boston Marathon is no exception. They represent the peak of athletic achievement in the event, reflecting the culmination of training, strategy, and determination. Analysis of winning times provides valuable insights into the competitive landscape of the race and allows for comparisons across different years and even other marathons.
-
Overall Winners
The overall winning times represent the fastest performances in the race, distinguishing the elite athletes who topped the field. These times serve as benchmarks for future competitors and are often scrutinized for insights into training methods and race strategies. In the context of the 2004 Boston Marathon, they offer a snapshot of the highest level of competition in that specific year.
-
Course Records
Winning times are directly related to course records. A particularly fast winning time may establish a new course record, marking a historic achievement in the race’s history. Analysis of how winning times compare to existing course records provides a valuable perspective on the caliber of competition and the conditions of the race. Examining whether a course record was broken or challenged in 2004 adds another layer of significance to the results.
-
Age Group Winners
Winning times within specific age groups offer a nuanced perspective on athletic performance, highlighting achievements within different demographics. These times allow for comparisons across various age categories, demonstrating the range of athletic capabilities represented in the marathon. Examining age group winning times from 2004 provides insights into the performances of non-elite runners.
-
Impact of Conditions
Winning times are influenced by a variety of external factors, most notably weather conditions. Temperature, humidity, and wind can significantly impact performance, making comparisons between different years more complex. Understanding the prevailing weather conditions during the 2004 race is crucial for accurately interpreting the winning times and appreciating the athletes’ achievements.
By examining winning times in these different contexts, a deeper understanding of the 2004 Boston Marathon results emerges. These times, when analyzed in conjunction with other race data, offer valuable insights into athletic performance, the impact of external factors, and the historical significance of the event.
2. Top Finishers
Analysis of top finishers provides crucial context for understanding the 2004 Boston Marathon results. These individuals represent the peak of competitive performance within the race, their achievements reflecting not only individual talent and training but also the prevailing race conditions and competitive dynamics. Examining their performances offers insight into strategies, training methodologies, and the overall level of competition in that particular year.
The list of top finishers typically includes not only the overall winners in the men’s and women’s categories, but also the top finishers in various age groups and divisions. This broader perspective offers a more nuanced view of the race outcomes, highlighting achievements across a range of athletic abilities and demographics. Studying the top finishers allows for comparisons with previous years’ results, potentially revealing trends in competitive performance and the emergence of new talent within the marathon running community. For instance, comparing the 2004 top finishers with those from 2003 could reveal shifts in competitive dominance or the impact of specific training regimens.
Understanding the significance of top finishers within the broader context of the 2004 Boston Marathon results offers valuable insights into the sport’s competitive landscape. This analysis can inform future training strategies, provide benchmarks for aspiring runners, and contribute to a richer historical understanding of the event. Further research might explore the specific training methods employed by the top finishers in 2004, or investigate the factors that contributed to their success. Such investigations enrich the understanding of elite athletic performance and add depth to the narrative surrounding the 2004 race.
3. Course Records
Course records represent the fastest times achieved on a specific marathon course. Within the context of the 2004 Boston Marathon results, course records serve as a critical benchmark for evaluating performance. A new course record signifies an exceptional achievement, surpassing previous benchmarks and establishing a new standard of excellence. Conversely, the absence of a new record provides context for understanding the race conditions and the competitive landscape. Examining whether the 2004 race produced a new course record, or how close the winning times came to existing records, enhances understanding of the results. For example, if the 2004 winning time was significantly slower than the existing record, this might indicate challenging weather conditions or a less competitive field compared to the year the record was set.
Analysis of course records in relation to the 2004 Boston Marathon results can reveal broader trends in marathon running. Consistent improvements in course records over time might suggest advancements in training techniques, nutrition, or running technology. Alternatively, periods of stagnation or regression in record times could indicate the influence of external factors, such as changes in course conditions or doping regulations. Investigating how the 2004 results fit into the historical progression of course records provides valuable context for understanding the overall development of marathon running. For instance, comparing the 2004 results to those of the previous decade could illuminate patterns of improvement or highlight specific years with exceptional performances.
Understanding the relationship between course records and the 2004 Boston Marathon results offers crucial insight into the race’s historical significance and the evolution of competitive marathon running. This understanding facilitates more nuanced analysis of individual and overall performance, adding depth to the narrative of the 2004 race. It also underscores the importance of course records as a measure of athletic progress and a testament to human potential. Examining how the 2004 results stand in relation to subsequent years further enhances this perspective.
4. Participant Demographics
Participant demographics provide crucial context for understanding the 2004 Boston Marathon results. Analysis of age, gender, nationality, and running experience within the participant pool allows for a deeper understanding of the race’s competitive landscape and broader societal trends. Demographics influence overall performance distributions and can highlight emerging patterns within the running community. For instance, a significant increase in participants within a specific age group could suggest growing interest in marathon running within that demographic. Similarly, analysis of nationality data might reveal the global reach of the event and highlight the participation of runners from specific regions. The demographic makeup of the 2004 Boston Marathon provides insights into the event’s accessibility and its appeal to diverse groups of runners.
Examining the relationship between participant demographics and race results offers a more nuanced interpretation of outcomes. Performance can be analyzed within specific demographic categories, revealing disparities or patterns related to age, gender, or experience level. This allows for targeted analysis of performance trends and the identification of factors contributing to success within specific groups. For example, analyzing the performance of female runners in the 2004 marathon relative to previous years might reveal improvements in training or participation rates. Similarly, examining the finish times of runners within different age brackets could provide insights into the impact of aging on athletic performance. This granular level of analysis helps in identifying potential areas for improvement in training programs or outreach initiatives targeted toward specific demographic groups.
Understanding the demographics of the 2004 Boston Marathon participants provides a richer understanding of the event’s significance and its impact on diverse communities. This analysis offers valuable insights into broader trends in marathon running, athletic performance, and societal participation in sporting events. Comparing the 2004 demographics with data from subsequent years allows for the tracking of long-term trends and the identification of evolving patterns within the running community. This data can inform future race organization, community outreach programs, and public health initiatives related to physical activity. The demographic information adds a crucial layer of understanding to the 2004 Boston Marathon results, moving beyond simple performance metrics to explore the social and cultural context surrounding the event.
5. Weather Conditions
Weather conditions play a significant role in marathon performance, directly impacting the 2004 Boston Marathon results. Temperature, humidity, wind speed, and precipitation can all influence runner physiology and, consequently, finishing times. Elevated temperatures and humidity increase physiological strain, potentially leading to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and reduced performance. Conversely, optimal temperatures and low humidity can facilitate optimal physiological function, potentially contributing to faster times. Strong headwinds increase the energy expenditure required to maintain pace, while tailwinds can provide an advantage. Precipitation, depending on intensity and temperature, can either cool runners or contribute to hypothermia.
Consider the impact of temperature. Research indicates that marathon performance tends to decline when ambient temperatures exceed 16C (61F). If the 2004 Boston Marathon occurred under such conditions, one might expect slower finishing times compared to a race held under cooler conditions. Similarly, high humidity impairs the body’s ability to cool itself through evaporation, further exacerbating the physiological strain of running. Wind, while less impactful than temperature or humidity, can still influence performance. A strong headwind requires runners to exert more effort, while a tailwind can assist runners, particularly in the later stages of the race when fatigue sets in. Understanding the specific weather conditions on race daytemperature, humidity, wind speed, and precipitationprovides critical context for interpreting the 2004 Boston Marathon results.
Analysis of weather conditions in conjunction with race results provides a more complete understanding of athletic performance. This understanding can inform training strategies, race-day preparation, and expectations. For example, athletes might adapt their pacing strategies based on anticipated weather conditions. Race organizers might implement measures to mitigate the impact of extreme weather on participant safety. Understanding the influence of weather on the 2004 Boston Marathon provides a more nuanced interpretation of the results, recognizing that performance is not solely determined by fitness and training but also influenced by external environmental factors. This knowledge is crucial for accurate analysis and meaningful comparisons across different races and years.
6. Notable Events
Notable events occurring during the 2004 Boston Marathon can significantly influence race results and shape the overall narrative surrounding the event. These events can range from exceptional individual performances and unexpected outcomes to external factors impacting race conditions or participant safety. Such occurrences may directly alter race results, for instance, a course obstruction requiring a route change impacting finishing times, or indirectly influence outcomes by affecting participant morale or race strategy. A sudden downpour midway through the race, while not directly changing the course, could significantly impact runner performance and consequently influence final results.
Specific examples of notable events impacting marathon outcomes include instances of elite athletes withdrawing due to injury, unexpected victories by underdog competitors, or records being broken. Such events capture public attention and contribute to the historical significance of the race. Consider a scenario where a relatively unknown runner surpasses pre-race favorites to win the 2004 Boston Marathon. This unexpected outcome would become a notable event, shaping media coverage and public perception of the race. Similarly, adverse weather conditions, such as extreme heat or a severe storm, can constitute a notable event influencing both runner performance and overall race management. Such circumstances can create challenges for race organizers, requiring adjustments to aid stations or even course modifications to ensure participant safety. These adjustments can indirectly influence race results by altering the competitive dynamics or introducing unforeseen challenges for runners.
Understanding the impact of notable events provides essential context for interpreting the 2004 Boston Marathon results. These events contribute to the historical narrative surrounding the race and offer valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors influencing athletic performance and race outcomes. Analysis of these events requires careful consideration of their direct and indirect influence on race results and an understanding of how they shape public perception and historical accounts. Recognizing the role of notable events enhances comprehension of the race’s significance beyond simple performance metrics. This contextual awareness allows for a more nuanced interpretation of the 2004 Boston Marathon, acknowledging the various factors shaping its outcome and contributing to its unique narrative within the broader history of marathon running.
7. Media Coverage
Media coverage significantly shaped public perception and historical documentation of the 2004 Boston Marathon results. Pre-race coverage often highlighted elite athletes, predicted outcomes, and established narratives surrounding potential rivalries or record-breaking attempts. This pre-race framing influenced audience expectations and shaped the lens through which results were interpreted. Post-race coverage amplified the significance of specific achievements, highlighted dramatic moments, and provided context for understanding the race outcomes. Media outlets selected narratives to emphasize, influencing public memory and historical accounts. For example, extensive coverage of a particular athlete’s struggle and eventual triumph could overshadow other noteworthy performances, shaping public perception of the race’s key narratives.
The media played a crucial role in disseminating race results to a wider audience. Real-time updates, online platforms, and post-race analysis provided comprehensive coverage of winning times, top finishers, and notable events. This dissemination shaped public discourse and provided context for interpreting the significance of individual and collective achievements. Interviews with athletes, coaches, and race organizers offered insights into training strategies, race-day experiences, and the factors influencing performance. For instance, if an athlete experienced an unexpected setback during the race, media interviews provided a platform for explaining the circumstances and contextualizing their performance within the broader race narrative. This added depth to the understanding of the results beyond simple finish times.
Analysis of media coverage offers valuable insights into how the 2004 Boston Marathon results were presented and interpreted within a specific sociocultural context. Media narratives shape public memory and contribute to the historical record of the event. Understanding the media’s role in shaping these narratives allows for a more critical and nuanced understanding of the race’s significance. Examination of multiple media sources, including print, broadcast, and online platforms, provides a comprehensive view of the various narratives presented and their potential influence on public perception. This critical approach enhances understanding of the 2004 Boston Marathon as not only a sporting event but also a culturally significant phenomenon shaped by media representation. Further research could explore how media coverage evolved in subsequent years, reflecting changing trends in journalism and the growing influence of digital platforms.
8. Historical Context
Understanding the 2004 Boston Marathon results requires situating them within a broader historical context. This involves examining the race’s history, previous outcomes, evolving trends in marathon running, and the societal landscape surrounding the event. This contextualization provides a deeper appreciation for the significance of the 2004 race and allows for meaningful comparisons across different years and within the larger narrative of marathon running.
-
Past Race Outcomes
Prior race results provide a benchmark against which the 2004 outcomes can be evaluated. Analyzing trends in winning times, participation rates, and the emergence of dominant runners offers insights into the evolution of the Boston Marathon and the progression of competitive standards. For instance, comparing the 2004 winning times to those of the previous decade can reveal patterns of improvement or stagnation. Examining the participation rates across different demographics over time provides insights into the changing appeal of the marathon to various groups.
-
Evolution of Marathon Running
The 2004 Boston Marathon occurred within a specific period in the history of marathon running. Training methodologies, nutritional strategies, and running technology were constantly evolving. Understanding these advancements and their impact on athletic performance provides crucial context for interpreting the 2004 results. For example, the adoption of new training techniques in the years leading up to 2004 might be reflected in improved finishing times. Similarly, the increasing prevalence of specialized running shoes could have contributed to enhanced performance.
-
Societal Influences
Social and cultural factors influence participation in and perception of marathon running. The 2004 race occurred within a specific societal context, shaped by prevailing attitudes toward health, fitness, and competitive sports. Understanding these influences provides insights into the broader significance of the marathon within society. For instance, increasing media attention on health and fitness might have contributed to higher participation rates in the 2004 race. Similarly, societal attitudes towards gender equality in sports could be reflected in the participation and performance of female runners.
-
Specific Events of 2004
The year 2004 had its own unique set of circumstances, potentially impacting the Boston Marathon. Global events, economic conditions, or local occurrences could have influenced participant demographics, race organization, or media coverage. Understanding these specific factors provides further context for interpreting the race results. For example, a major sporting event occurring shortly before the marathon might have affected media attention or participant numbers. Local events or weather patterns specific to 2004 would have also influenced the race experience and potentially the outcomes.
By considering these historical factors, the 2004 Boston Marathon results become more than just a list of finish times. They represent a specific moment in the evolution of marathon running, reflecting not only athletic achievement but also broader societal trends and the historical trajectory of the race itself. This contextualization deepens understanding and allows for a more nuanced appreciation of the 2004 Boston Marathon within the larger narrative of athletic competition and human endeavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 2004 Boston Marathon results, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: Where can complete official results for the 2004 Boston Marathon be found?
Official results, including finishing times for all participants, are typically archived on the Boston Athletic Association’s official website. Other running websites and sports news archives may also provide access to these results.
Question 2: Who won the 2004 Boston Marathon?
Specific winner information requires consultation with official race records. The Boston Athletic Association’s website and reputable sports news archives will provide details on the men’s and women’s division winners.
Question 3: Were any course records broken during the 2004 Boston Marathon?
Verification of broken records necessitates cross-referencing the 2004 results with existing course records. This information can be found on the Boston Athletic Association’s official website or through reliable sports news sources.
Question 4: What were the weather conditions like during the 2004 race?
Weather data for the race date can be obtained from meteorological archives and historical weather data websites. Specific details on temperature, humidity, and wind conditions can be found through these resources.
Question 5: How did the 2004 winning times compare to previous years?
Comparative analysis requires access to historical race data. Consulting official race archives and sports statistics websites will allow for comparison of winning times across different years.
Question 6: Were there any notable events or controversies surrounding the 2004 race?
Information regarding significant occurrences necessitates review of race reports and media coverage from that period. Reputable news archives and running publications can provide insights into any notable events surrounding the 2004 Boston Marathon.
Reviewing these responses and consulting the suggested resources provides a comprehensive understanding of the 2004 Boston Marathon results. Further research using specific keywords related to individual inquiries will yield more detailed information.
Further exploration might involve investigating specific aspects of the race, such as individual athlete performances, training strategies, or the sociocultural context surrounding the event. More detailed analysis requires accessing specific data sets and utilizing analytical tools to interpret the information.
Tips Derived from Analyzing Boston Marathon 2004 Results
Examining race results offers valuable insights applicable to training strategies and overall understanding of competitive marathon running. The following tips leverage data and narratives surrounding the 2004 Boston Marathon to provide actionable advice for aspiring marathoners and those interested in enhancing their understanding of the sport.
Tip 1: Importance of Pacing Strategy: Analyzing finishing times and split times from the 2004 race highlights the importance of a well-defined pacing strategy. Consistent pacing often correlates with successful outcomes. Examining how elite runners paced themselves in 2004 offers valuable lessons.
Tip 2: Weather Considerations: Performance is significantly influenced by weather. Understanding the impact of temperature and humidity on runners in the 2004 race underscores the need to adapt training and race-day strategies accordingly. Heat acclimation training becomes crucial based on historical weather data.
Tip 3: Training Specificity: Elite runners’ training regimens leading up to the 2004 marathon demonstrate the importance of specificity. Training should mimic the demands of the target race, incorporating long runs, tempo runs, and hill workouts.
Tip 4: Importance of Nutrition and Hydration: Race results, combined with analysis of elite runners’ nutritional strategies, emphasize the importance of proper fueling and hydration during training and competition.
Tip 5: Strength Training Benefits: While often overlooked, strength training contributes to injury prevention and improved running economy. Researching training programs of successful 2004 marathoners might reveal the incorporation of strength training elements.
Tip 6: Mental Fortitude: Completing a marathon requires mental resilience. Examining the narratives surrounding the 2004 race, particularly stories of runners overcoming challenges, underscores the mental aspect of marathon running. Visualization techniques and positive self-talk can prove beneficial.
Tip 7: Importance of Recovery: Adequate recovery is crucial for preventing overtraining and maximizing performance. Analyzing training plans of successful 2004 marathoners reveals the integration of rest and recovery periods within their training cycles.
By incorporating these insights derived from the 2004 Boston Marathon results, runners can refine training approaches, optimize race-day strategies, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the complexities of marathon performance.
These tips, combined with further research and personalized application, pave the way for enhanced performance and a more informed approach to marathon running. Analysis of subsequent race results allows for continuous refinement of these strategies.
Conclusion
Analysis of the 2004 Boston Marathon results provides valuable insights into elite athletic performance, the influence of external factors on race outcomes, and the historical context surrounding this prestigious event. Examination of winning times, top finishers, course records, participant demographics, weather conditions, notable events, and media coverage contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the race’s significance. Exploring these facets illuminates the multifaceted nature of marathon running, highlighting the interplay of individual preparation, race-day conditions, and the broader context within which the event unfolds.
The 2004 Boston Marathon results serve as a valuable data point within the broader history of the race and marathon running in general. Continued analysis of these results, combined with comparative studies across different years and other marathons, can further enhance understanding of athletic performance, training methodologies, and the evolution of the sport. This pursuit of deeper understanding benefits not only athletes and coaches but also researchers, historians, and enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the complexities and enduring appeal of marathon running.
