Boston Marathon qualifying standards

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Racing

Runners Aren’t Getting Faster. So Why Is It Harder Than Ever to Qualify for Boston?

Our data analyst and BQ expert explains how this year’s 5:17 cutoff could have been even bigger—and what exactly to expect for 2028.

Brian RockOctober 21, 20263

News

The New Boston Marathon Lottery, Explained: What Qualifiers Need to Know

The latest move from the Boston Athletic Association, which rejected nearly 9,000 qualifiers last year, is giving runners a second chance at the coveted bib.

Heather Mayer IrvineJuly 22, 20261

Racing

The 2026 Boston Marathon Was a 15,800-BQ Unicorn

From historically fast finishing times to 12.7% of runners clocking a negative split, our running data expert dives into the year the whole field caught fire.

Brian RockApril 24, 2026

Racing

Yes, You Can Qualify for Boston Running and Walking

It doesn’t seem possible, but the late Jeff Galloway’s run/walk method has produced thousands of Boston qualifying times. But it takes diligence.

Claire TrageserMarch 3, 2026

Racing

Is Your Boston Qualifying Time Fast Enough? Here's What the Latest Data Says

We’ve looked at the numbers so far this year. Here are some predictions to help you figure out a safe buffer to get you to Boston in 2027.

Brian RockFebruary 13, 20261

Racing

Boston Marathon's 4:34 Cutoff: Who Got In, Who Didn't, and Why it Matters

A close look at the demand, distribution of qualifiers, and the Boston Athletic Association's choices to help runners understand this year's cutoff.

Brian RockJanuary 29, 2026

News

Will Boston’s New Rules Make Downhill Marathons Extinct? The Answer is Complicated.

We dive (way) into the data to reveal what the new qualifying regulations actually mean for Boston hopefuls and downhill races.

Brian RockJuly 10, 2025