Boston Marathon Qualifying Times Explained
How Boston qualifying standards work, why cut-off times often run faster than the published BQ, and how to plan a qualifying attempt.
Marathon guide
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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What the series is
The Abbott World Marathon Majors is a championship-style series of the world's largest and most iconic city marathons. Marathon Focus covers every current major with course maps, weather, elevation, and race-day video — browse the full list on our World Marathon Majors hub.
The current majors
- Tokyo MarathonBoston MarathonLondon Marathon
- Berlin MarathonChicago MarathonNew York City Marathon
- Sydney MarathonCape Town Marathon
Six Star Medal and beyond
Runners who complete the six original majors (Tokyo through New York) earn the Six Star Medal. Sydney and Cape Town have expanded the series; requirements evolve — always confirm current rules on the official WMM site.
How entry differs by major
Boston requires a qualifying time; London and New York use ballots; Berlin and Chicago mix lotteries with tour entries; Tokyo has its own allocation system. See marathon entry explained and Boston qualifying for detail.
Planning a majors journey
Spread majors across seasons to manage cost and recovery. Compare courses on Marathon Focus — Berlin Marathon and Chicago Marathon suit speed; Boston Marathon and New York City Marathon are hillier or more variable. Use how to choose a marathon to pick your first major by goal, not just prestige.
Planning guides
Related Marathon Guides
How to Choose a Marathon
Match a race to your goals — personal bests, sightseeing, atmosphere, or a major milestone — using course data and realistic expectations.
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.