The world's oldest annual marathon race has been held every year since 1897 without a break. What is the name of this famous race?

Introduction / Context:
This question tests knowledge of major world sporting events, specifically long distance running. Marathon races are organised in many cities, but one of them holds the distinction of being the oldest annual marathon in the world, having begun in the nineteenth century and continued each year since then. Recognising which marathon has this historical importance is common in sports related general knowledge.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The race is described as the world's oldest annual marathon.
• It has been held continuously since 1897.
• Four famous city marathons are listed as options.
• The question seeks the correct name of this historic race.

Concept / Approach:
The Boston Marathon, held in the United States, is widely recognised as the oldest annual marathon in the world. It was inspired by the marathon event in the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and has taken place every year since 1897, traditionally on Patriots Day. Other marathons like London, New York City, and Berlin began many decades later and, although prestigious, do not share this early origin.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on the keywords oldest annual marathon and since 1897. Step 2: Recall that Boston Marathon is strongly associated with this long history and is frequently mentioned in sports trivia. Step 3: Compare this with London, New York City, and Berlin marathons, which are famous but began in the twentieth century. Step 4: Select Boston Marathon as the correct option and discard the others as later events.

Verification / Alternative check:
Verification can be obtained from sports encyclopedias, official marathon websites, or Olympic history references. All these sources confirm that the Boston Marathon started in 1897 and has been held annually ever since, making it the oldest continuing marathon race. Chronologies of major city marathons show that the London Marathon began in 1981, the New York City Marathon in the 1970s, and the Berlin Marathon in the 1970s as well.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
The London Marathon is one of the world's top marathons but its history is much shorter and it does not qualify as the oldest. The New York City Marathon is iconic and very large but it began later in the twentieth century. The Berlin Marathon is similarly famous for world record performances, not for being the earliest annual race. Therefore none of these alternatives match the specific historical description given in the question.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may be tempted to choose London or New York City because these cities are widely known and associated with major events. Without focusing on the year 1897, it is easy to ignore the age related clue. To avoid such mistakes, always pay attention to time related details in the stem. Remembering just one phrase, such as Boston Marathon equals oldest annual marathon, is usually enough to answer quickly and accurately.

Final Answer:
Boston Marathon