7 Marathon Majors.
How many have you visited?
Track the World Marathon Majors: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York, and Sydney. Mark every race you have run.
Marathon Majors
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Japan
0/1USA
0/3UK
0/1Germany
0/1Australia
0/1Where to start
7 picks worth planning a trip aroundBoston Marathon
USAThe world's oldest annual marathon, run since 1897, is the only major that requires a qualifying time. The Newton Hills come late, when runners are most tired.
Why go: Climb Heartbreak Hill around mile 20 and run through the Wellesley "Scream Tunnel." Finish on Boylston Street.
London Marathon
UKIt's the world's largest annual fundraising event and has raised over £1 billion for charity since 1981. The race finishes in front of Buckingham Palace.
Why go: Run past Big Ben and Tower Bridge and along the Thames. High-five runners in costumes raising money for charity.
Berlin Marathon
GermanyBerlin's flat, straight course is known as the fastest in the world. It crosses what was once a divided city.
Why go: Chase a personal best on a course that has produced more world records than any other marathon. Finish through the Brandenburg Gate.
Chicago Marathon
USAThe flat, fast course winds through 29 neighborhoods and draws elite runners.
Why go: Hear mariachi bands in Pilsen and dance music in Boystown. Run through the Loop and finish in Grant Park.
New York City Marathon
USAThe world's largest marathon has over 50,000 finishers each year. The course crosses all five boroughs, from Staten Island to Central Park.
Why go: Run past Brooklyn brownstones and Manhattan skyscrapers with two million spectators along the way. Finish in Central Park.
Tokyo Marathon
JapanEntry is by lottery, with odds around 10 to 1. The course passes the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, and Senso-ji Temple.
Why go: Run past the Imperial Palace and through Ginza. Expect well-run aid stations, bowing volunteers, and encouraging crowds.
Sydney Marathon
AustraliaSydney is the newest of the World Marathon Majors. Runners cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge and see the Opera House along the course.
Why go: Cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge with the Opera House below. Run through the Royal Botanic Gardens and along the harbor.
Questions about Marathon Majors
What are the World Marathon Majors?
The Abbott World Marathon Majors are seven of the biggest marathons: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York City, and Sydney, which joined in 2025. Runners who finish all of them get a special medal.
How do I qualify for the Boston Marathon?
Boston requires a qualifying time from a certified marathon, based on your age and gender. The B.A.A. publishes the current standards each year.
Which marathon is the fastest?
Berlin is known as the fastest course because it is flat, and many world records have been set there. Chicago and London are also fast, flat courses.
Can anyone run a World Major?
Most majors have lottery entries for non-qualifiers. You can also enter through charity programs or tour operators, though these typically require fundraising or higher fees.