A Complete Overview of the 7 Abbott World Marathon Majors

The Allure of World Major Marathons

For avid runners, crossing the finish line at one of the World Major Marathons—also referred to as the Abbott World Marathon Majors (WMM)—represents a pinnacle achievement. This prestigious series currently features races in iconic cities: Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, New York City, Tokyo, and now Sydney, which joined in 2025. Completing these six races earns participants a much-coveted six-star medal, a badge of honor in the running community. This medal was first introduced in 2016 when the series consisted of six events, yet rumblings of a possible nine-star medal have surfaced as WMM contemplates adding new locations like Shanghai and Cape Town. Running in these races isn't just about the physical challenge; it involves strategic planning on multiple levels. The logistical complexity of preparing for these elite events spans various factors, from travel arrangements to the training demands required to compete successfully. It's a multi-year endeavor for many, but the sense of accomplishment is profound for those who finish. Jeff Adams, president of Marathon Tours & Travel, puts it succinctly: “All of these races have a notable history and undeniable energy,” emphasizing the experiences that go beyond the race itself. Since the inception of WMM in 2006, over 23,000 runners have earned their six-star medal, with more than 5,000 of those from the United States alone. This surge in participation reflects their growing popularity but also underscores the necessity for strategic registration approaches. As competition heats up, securing a spot in these marathons is becoming increasingly difficult. So, if you've set your sights on completing all the World Major Marathons, you're stepping into a challenging and rewarding journey. Here’s what you need to know to navigate this elite circuit effectively.

Entry Options for Popular Marathons

London's marathon entry process is a significant point of contention for many aspiring runners. With applications for the 2027 race surpassing one million in the U.K. alone, and nearly 300,000 international entries—including around 100,000 from the U.S.—the odds of securing a spot are slim. When speaking about the lottery system, Adams doesn’t sugarcoat it: the chance of being selected hovers in the single digits. If you’re searching for alternative pathways, a "Good For Age" entry is available, but only for U.K. residents and even that doesn’t guarantee entrance. However, if you happen to be a member of UK Athletics but reside elsewhere, a "Championship entry" is another route to consider. Switching focus to the Berlin Marathon, the application window opens mid-October and runs through early fall. Here’s the perk: if you’ve qualified with a competitive time, you’ll automatically secure a bib after verification. Nevertheless, should you miss the qualifying marks, there’s still a chance via the lottery—albeit one that’s becoming increasingly popular due to the event's reputation for breakneck speeds. Chicago presents yet another set of entry guidelines. Runners can submit applications from October until mid-November, with results released in December. If you’ve completed the race five times in the last decade, or participated in the Chicago Distance Series recently, you’ll benefit from guaranteed entry as a legacy finisher. Alternatively, you can also qualify based on your race times categorized by age group. If the streets of New York City call to you, the entry process is no less intricate. For those not meeting the stringent time standards, there's the randomized drawing, providing another pathway to join one of the most electrifying races out there. Those situated in NYC can take advantage of the 9+1 program: run nine NYRR races and volunteer in a single year to secure a guaranteed entry for the marathon. Notably, runners who've completed 15 or more NYC Marathons have achieved an exclusive lifetime entry—but be aware, older races are effectively required for medal recognition. Lastly, Sydney’s marathon is making its debut as part of the Majors in 2025. Utilizing a ballot system, the application window will open from late September and close mid-October, creating it as a competitive but achievable goal. Non-elite runners can also qualify through specific time benchmarks or by partnering with charities. This means that for many, the allure of racing in Sydney is not just about the challenge, but also about exploring new paths to entry.

Looking Ahead: Ready, Set, Run

As we wrap up our exploration of training plans tailored for runners at various levels, it’s clear that these structured regimens are more than just timelines; they’re personalized pathways to improvement. Each plan caters to distinct experience levels, setting ambitious yet achievable goals. Whether you’re a newcomer to running or a seasoned athlete, there’s a system designed to propel you towards your personal best. Take the 28-mile weekly plan aimed at new runners, designed for those with a solid fitness foundation. It’s not just about completing the distance—it’s an invitation to develop endurance gradually. This plan positions individuals to tackle longer runs, like the 12 miles required in peak weeks. While that’s exciting, it’s also a test of commitment. Runners must remember that progress comes with patience and consistency. Then there's the program for those who are already comfortable logging an hour of running at a moderate pace. With a peak of 32 miles per week and a 14-mile long run, this journey encourages participants to dig deeper into their capabilities. Here’s the thing: balancing these higher miles with rest is essential to avoid burnout or injury. Lastly, we have an advanced structure demanding consistency, topping out at an impressive 47 miles a week, inclusive of daunting long runs up to 22 miles. This isn't just a regimen; it challenges experienced runners to break through their limits and improve their pace, aiming for an average finish time of under 9:10 per mile. That ambition is admirable, but it also begs caution—avoiding overtraining is key, as you push for those personal records. For anyone engaged in this space, preparing to run a race goes beyond mileage. It involves understanding personal limits, acknowledging recovery needs, and embracing the training journey as a whole. Knowledgeable planning, combined with dedication, will not only make race day successful but also enjoyable. As you contemplate your next running adventure, consider which plan aligns with your goals. Commit to the process and remember: every mile logged is a stepping stone toward that finish line. It's more than just a race; it's about growth, resilience, and the thrill of pushing yourself further than before.