World Marathon Majors Explained
The Abbott World Marathon Majors series, the Six Star Medal, qualifying paths, and how to approach racing the world's biggest city marathons.
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Marathon guide
Marathon Entry: Lotteries, Ballots & Open Registration
How major marathons allocate places — open entry, lotteries, charity bibs, tour operators, and what to check before you commit to a trip.
Open registration
Some marathons sell places first-come, first-served until capacity. These can sell out in minutes for popular events. Set calendar reminders for opening dates and have an account ready if the organiser requires pre-registration.
Lotteries and ballots
Many majors and large city races allocate most bibs by random draw. You apply during a window, pay a small fee or deposit, and hear weeks later. Multiple entries are usually prohibited; read the official rules on each marathon's FAQ.
Qualifying standards
Boston is the best-known qualifying marathon, but other events use time standards for preferred corrals or guaranteed entry tiers. See Boston qualifying times for the most common example.
Charity, tour, and international places
Charity bibs commit you to fundraising minimums. Tour operators bundle entry with hotels and flights at a premium. Both can be legitimate routes into sold-out races if you budget for them.
Before you book travel
Never buy non-refundable flights until you have a confirmed bib — unless you accept the risk. Cross-check dates on the marathon page and use best time of year to run a marathon to align your trip with typical race month.
Related Marathon Guides
Best Time of Year to Run a Marathon
Why marathon season clusters in spring and autumn, how hemispheres shift the calendar, and how to align your target race with good conditions.
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Marathon Race Day Checklist
What to prepare the night before, what to bring to the start, and the small logistics that stop a good training block turning into a stressful morning.
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