Conquering the Course (or at Least Trying to): How to Sign Up for the Boston Marathon
Ever dreamt of running the historic Boston Marathon? You're not alone! This legendary race is a bucket list item for runners around the world. But before you lace up your sneaks and hit the pavement, there's the small matter of, well, signing up. Fear not, my fellow aspiring marathoners, for this guide will be your compass through the sometimes-confusing registration process.
Step 1: Channel Your Inner Speed Demon (or at Least Look Like One)
The Boston Marathon is all about earning your spot. That's right, you gotta qualify. Dust off your running shoes and get ready to put the pedal to the metal (or, you know, maintain a very impressive pace for several hours). Head over to the B.A.A. website to check out the qualifying times for your age group. [Insert surprised emoji here] Don't worry, even if you're not quite a sub-3-hour marathoner yet, there's always next year (or the year after that... or...).
Pro Tip: If qualifying seems a little out of reach this year, consider signing up for a charity bib program. Many charities offer spots in the race in exchange for fundraising. It's a win-win! You get to run the Boston Marathon and support a great cause.
Step 2: Mark Your Calendars and Hone Your Clicking Skills
Assuming you've channeled your inner cheetah (or at least a speedy house cat), it's time to register! Registration for the 2025 Boston Marathon opens on Monday, September 9th, 2024, at 10:00 AM ET and closes on Friday, September 13th, 2024, at 5:00 PM ET. Remember, this is not a first-come, first-served situation. Think of it as the online Hunger Games for runners. May the odds (and your internet connection) be ever in your favor!
Bonus Tip: Create an account on the B.A.A.'s Athletes' Village platform beforehand. This will save you precious seconds during the registration scramble. Every millisecond counts, people!
Step 3: The Waiting Game (and Maybe Some Refreshing Drinks)
After submitting your application, take a deep breath and try not to F5 your computer screen into oblivion. The B.A.A. will notify you of your application status in the weeks following the registration period. In the meantime, here are some productive ways to pass the time:
- Train like a maniac (just kidding... mostly).
- Visualize yourself crushing that Boston Marathon course.
- Stock up on celebratory beverages (for when you get in, obviously).
Word to the Wise: Don't bombard the B.A.A. with emails asking about your application status. They'll let you know!
So You Wanna Run Boston, Huh? Here are Your Burning Questions Answered:
How to Qualify for the Boston Marathon?
Head over to the B.A.A. website to find the qualifying times for your age group: [Insert BAA qualifying times link here]
How to Register for the Boston Marathon?
Registration takes place entirely online through the B.A.A.'s Athletes' Village platform. Mark your calendars for September 9th-13th, 2024!
How Much Does it Cost to Run the Boston Marathon?
The entry fee for the 2025 Boston Marathon has not yet been announced, but it's typically around $200.
What if I Don't Qualify This Year?
There's always next year! You can also consider running for a charity.
How do I Celebrate Getting into the Boston Marathon?
That's entirely up to you, but celebratory beverages are highly recommended!
