It’s one of the Marathon Majors alongside London, Berlin, Tokyo, Chicago and New York City, which means many runners dream of crossing the finish line in Boylston Street (especially if they’ve completed the other five). But if you’re not a “fast” marathon runner, or the idea of trying to qualify for a race fills you with dread, it may seem like an impossible feat.
Luckily, there are some alternative ways to get a place in the Boston Marathon. One option is via a charity, because the BAA provides numerous nonprofit organizations with entries into the race. However, NPOs usually stipulate a minimum fundraising amount (around $5,000) and with only 2,500 charity places in total up for grabs, you will need to convince the organization to choose you.
Tour operators are another option for people who live outside the USA. The BAA partners with various travel companies to provide marathon packages, which generally take care of your race place and logistics such as accommodation and local travel. However, this is an expensive option.
If this has left you disheartened, play the long game and remember qualifying times get more generous with age. It can take years to get into the race, but if you’re determined enough it will be worth it when you finally cross that start line.