Skip to Content

Boston Marathon lowers qualifying times for most prospective runners for 2026 race

BOSTON (AP) — Runners hoping to qualify for the 2026 Boston Marathon are going to have to pick up the pace. The Boston Athletic Association has updated its qualifying times for the world’s oldest annual marathon and asks most prospective competitors to run a 26.2-mile race five minutes faster than in recent years to earn a starting number. The BAA introduced qualifying times in 1970 and has expanded and adjusted the requirements through the decades. Runners participating in the event to raise money for charity don’t have to meet the qualifying standards. BAA president Jack Fleming says “the adjustment reflects both the depth of participation and speed at which athletes are running.”

Article Topic Follows: AP National

Jump to comments ↓

Author Profile Photo

Associated Press

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KIFI Local News 8 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content