Record Cut-Off Leaves 12,000 Runners Out of 2025 Boston Marathon

Due to an unprecedented rush of 36,393 applications, approximately 12,000 qualified runners will not participate in the 2025 Boston Marathon. Entry required exceeding qualifying times by six minutes and 51 seconds, underscoring the event's growing popularity. Organizers plan stricter standards for future races.

In an unprecedented turn of events, around 12,000 runners who met the qualifying standards for the 2025 Boston Marathon will not secure a place at the starting line. This announcement came from marathon organizers on Tuesday following an overwhelming rush of applications.

Known for its stringent qualifying criteria, the Boston Marathon requires amateur runners to meet specific times based on age and gender. This year, entrants had to surpass their qualifying times by six minutes and 51 seconds, setting a record-high cut-off, except for the pandemic-affected 2021 race. The 36,393 applications received highlight the surging popularity of distance running, noted Boston Athletic Association President and CEO Jack Fleming.

"Boston Marathon qualifiers have trained thousands of miles with the hopes of lining up in Hopkinton on Patriots' Day," Fleming remarked. "Regrettably, we can't accommodate all qualified athletes, but we commend their efforts to be part of the 2025 event."

In light of the rising demand, organizers also announced stricter qualifying standards for the 2026 race, particularly for runners under 60 years. The 2025 Boston Marathon is slated for April 21.

(With inputs from agencies.)