BQ

Latest Stories

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

Marathon

Yes, You Can Turn “Right on Hereford, Left on Boylston” With Just Three Runs Per Week

This 14-week marathon training plan, which prioritizes three types of workouts, isn't for the faint of heart.

Carl LeiversSeptember 15, 2026

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

Culture

The (Mostly) Unspoken Rules of the Boston Marathon Jacket

Wearing it before you race? Bad luck. Buying it off eBay? Gauche. But the rules of the Boston Marathon Jacket don't stop there.

Heather Mayer IrvineApril 14, 20261

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

Racing

The 7 Best Marathons to Qualify For Boston

Chasing Boston? These seven races are your best shot at snagging that elusive BQ.

Brittany VermeerSeptember 23, 20252

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