The 112th Annual Boston Marathon was held this morning with Kenyan Robert Cheruiyot taking the male victory and Ethiopian Dire Tune for the women. It is interesting to see how this once local marathon has turned into an internationally renowned event affectionately known as a "people's Olympic event."

Originally a free event with a novelty prize awarded to the winner, the Boston Marathon began attracting professional athletes as well as avid runners; as long as they qualify. My guess is that the qualifying criteria is what separated this marathon from others and drew serious runners from around the world. However, as more pros began to participate, the need for corporate sponsors arose in order to meet the athletes' demands to be paid for their participation.

Suffice it to say that with entry fees ranging from $110 - $200 for participants, this even it no longer free or for amateurs. In addition to the entry fee, the Boston Marathon is funded through corporate sponsors - the main one being John Hanckock Financial - contributions from a host of organizations, as well as through the sell of branded merchandise.

Over the years, the marathon has grown from 18 participants in it's very first race to over 20,000 participants. There is no doubt that tradition and tough competition is what keeps this event going and growing.