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Boston Qualifier Marathons

Boston Qualifier marathons are US-certified races where a strong performance can count toward Boston Marathon entry — provided you beat your age-group standard within the registration window. This hub lists outdoor, full-distance US marathons that meet B.A.A. qualifying-event rules on course certification, field size, less than 120 metres of total climbing, and net-downhill limits. Always confirm current USATF certification with the race organiser before you register.

58 marathons are featured here, including established BQ destinations like Chicago, Houston, and Sacramento. For the fastest options, see our fast marathons hub.

Boston itself requires a qualifying time to enter; the races here are where runners earn that ticket.

Chicago Marathon
World Marathon Major
ChicagoIllinoisUnited States

Chicago Marathon

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon winds through 29 diverse neighbourhoods of the Windy City. Known for its flat, fast course and enthusiastic Midwest crowds, Chicago has hosted landmark performances including Kelvin Kiptum's previous men's world record (2:00:35, 2023) and Ruth Chepngetich's all-time women's record (2:09:56, 2024). It remains a favourite for runners chasing Boston qualifying times.

Next race: Sunday, 11 October 2026

Every Woman's Marathon
New OrleansLouisianaUnited States

Every Woman's Marathon

The Every Woman's Marathon draws approximately 4,300 finishers on an urban road course in rotating U.S. host cities and was built specifically to celebrate women runners at scale. The next edition is scheduled for 28 February 2027 in New Orleans, Louisiana; there is no in-person race in 2026. The course passes downtown streets, local parks, and signature landmarks of the current host city — recent editions have included Savannah and Scottsdale. Gentle undulations are the only breaks on an otherwise flat profile.

Next race: Sunday, 28 February 2027

REVEL Big Cottonwood Marathon
Salt Lake CityUtahUnited States

REVEL Big Cottonwood Marathon

The REVEL Big Cottonwood Marathon is a net-downhill speed course drawing approximately 2,500 finishers each September through Utah's Wasatch Mountains. Starting at Guardsman Pass and descending Big Cottonwood Canyon to Cottonwood High School in Murray, the course drops roughly 1,600 m on a steep scenic mountain highway. September's crisp alpine morning and the fast descent make it one of America's most popular personal-best marathons.

Next race: Saturday, 18 September 2027

Rock n Roll New Orleans Marathon
New OrleansLouisianaUnited States

Rock n Roll New Orleans Marathon

The Rock 'n' Roll New Orleans Marathon attracts approximately 2,800 finishers each February through the Crescent City with live music at every mile. The course passes the French Quarter, Garden District mansions, and the Mississippi River levee on flat Louisiana terrain. February's mild Mardi Gras season weather and the city's unmatched post-race culture make it America's most festive winter marathon.

Next race: Saturday, 27 February 2027

Walt Disney World Marathon
Lake Buena VistaFloridaUnited States

Walt Disney World Marathon

The Walt Disney World Marathon is runDisney's flagship event, sending roughly 18,000 runners through all four Walt Disney World theme parks in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Participants start in the pre-dawn dark outside EPCOT and run through Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios with character meet-and-greets, park audio, and themed aid stations along the way. The January race weekend is a destination event for runners who want a marathon wrapped in Disney spectacle.

Next race: Sunday, 10 January 2027

Yuengling Shamrock Marathon
Virginia BeachVirginiaUnited States

Yuengling Shamrock Marathon

The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is a beloved Virginia Beach tradition, drawing approximately 4,200 finishers each March along the Atlantic Ocean boardwalk. The out-and-back course follows the Virginia Beach oceanfront past the Neptune statue, the Fishing Pier, and the resort strip with flat coastal pavement throughout. March's cool Atlantic coast weather and post-race Shamrock party make it a classic East Coast spring marathon.

Next race: Saturday, 20 March 2027

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Boston Qualifier marathon?
A Boston Qualifier (BQ) marathon is a certified 42.195 km race whose results can be used toward Boston Marathon entry, subject to Boston Athletic Association standards in your registration year. Most US runners need a BQ time from an eligible event.
How flat does a Boston Qualifier course need to be?
The B.A.A. limits excessive net downhill on qualifying courses. Marathon Focus lists US BQ-eligible races under 120 metres of climbing — a practical filter for courses that meet typical certification expectations.
Is the Pittsburgh Marathon a Boston Qualifier?
Yes. The Pittsburgh Marathon is a certified Boston Qualifier with a rolling urban course. Check the Pittsburgh Marathon page for current elevation gain, typical weather, and race-day detail before planning a qualifying attempt.
What are the easiest Boston Qualifier marathons?
Courses that are flat, cool in spring or autumn, and well supported tend to produce higher BQ rates. See our best Boston qualifier marathons guide and compare elevation, weather, and field size on each race page in this hub.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.