Metrication in the United States traditional mile-based lengths. In the Olympics, athletes run 1500 meters, not 1600 meters. Running races in the U.S. are usually run in metric distances (e.g., the 100 metres dash or the 5K run), although the mile distance remains popular. But even 5 and 10 kilometer races most often have mile markers on the course, and no kilometer markers. Long-distance races are often measured in kilometers, although exceptions exist (generally 10 mile races). The marathon is referred to as a 26.219-mile race (the official marathon standard distance originally being in English units — 26 miles, 385 yards) rather than 42.195 km.
Bangkok Marathon miles) to 27.6 km (17.1 miles). According to organisers, the increase was due to the race officials directing runners to take a turn at the wrong place which added over 3 km extra to each of the two laps. The mistake sparked humour and outcry in the social and news media. "The Guardian" called it "world's longest half marathon". Some comments on social media called it a "Super Half Marathon", while some called it a byproduct of "race inflation". Organizers apologized for the mistake and decided to offer a T-shirt saying "Finisher of 27.6 km" to participants who completed the