The Abbott World Marathon Majors (AWMM) represent the pinnacle of distance running, featuring seven of the most prestigious marathons globally: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York City, and, as of 2025, Sydney. Completing all seven is a highly sought-after achievement, earning runners the coveted Six Star Medal. With future additions like Cape Town and Shanghai under evaluation, this could expand to a Nine Star Medal.
When I set out to complete the Abbott World Marathon Majors, I had no idea how complex the entry process could be. Each race had its own unique challenge—whether it was the tough lottery odds in Tokyo, the qualification grind for Boston, or securing a charity spot in London. Now that I’ve earned my Six Star Medal, I want to share what I learned to help you navigate the process and secure your spot in these iconic races.
I completed this journey over an eight-year period, having to defer my Berlin entry three times due to COVID. Here’s how you can get in.
1. Tokyo Marathon (March)
- Field Size: ~37,500 runners
- Best Way to Get In: Tour Operators (guaranteed entry)
- Other Entry Options: Lottery (~1 in 10 chance), Charity (5,000 spots), One Tokyo Premium Member Entry
My Experience: Tokyo was the hardest one for me to get into via the lottery—I had to try multiple times. Eventually, I secured my spot through a tour operator, but I recommend looking at the charity option below.
The Tokyo charity entry is different from others—you must commit and bid your fundraising amount upfront, which can make it a challenging but guaranteed option. The race itself is incredibly well-organized, and running through the streets of Tokyo is an unforgettable experience.
2. Boston Marathon (April)
- Field Size: ~30,000 runners
- Best Way to Get In: Time qualification (strictest standards of any major)
- Other Entry Options: Charity (minimum fundraising of ~$15,000), Tour Operators
My Experience: I originally secured my Boston entry through a charity spot, but later managed to qualify for a BQ at Tokyo.
If you’re close to qualifying, consider running a fast, downhill marathon like CIM. Charity spots are a great alternative, but fundraising ($15k +) can be demanding.
3. London Marathon (April)
- Field Size: ~48,000 runners
- Best Way to Get In: Ballot entry (lottery)
- Other Entry Options: Charity, Good for Age, Championship Entry, Tour Operators
My Experience: The London ballot is notoriously tough—I didn’t get in via lottery but secured my entry through a charity spot. Charity spots have lower fundraising targets compared to some of the other majors.
If you're looking for guaranteed entry, fundraising for a good cause is the way to go. The energy in London is electric, and crossing Tower Bridge is a big highlight!
4. Berlin Marathon (September)
- Field Size: ~47,000 runners
- Best Way to Get In: Lottery (~16% success rate)
- Other Entry Options: Time Qualification, Tour Operators, Charity
My Experience: Berlin has one of the easiest lotteries compared to the other Majors. I got in on my second try, but due to COVID, I had to defer my entry three times before finally racing.
If you don’t want to take chances, go with a tour operator. This is the fastest course of all the Majors—perfect if you’re aiming for a PR!
5. Chicago Marathon (October)
- Field Size: ~45,000 runners
- Best Way to Get In: Lottery (~50% success rate)
- Other Entry Options: Time Qualification, Charity, Legacy Entry
My Experience: Chicago was the easiest Major for me to enter. The lottery has a high success rate, and there are many alternative entry options including charity entries that have a similar fundraising target to London.
The course is flat and fast, and the crowd support is amazing.
6. New York City Marathon (November)
- Field Size: ~50,000 runners
- Best Way to Get In: Lottery (~12% success rate)
- Other Entry Options: Time Qualification, Charity, NYRR 9+1 Program
My Experience: The NYC lottery is tough, so I went the tour operator route.
If you don’t have a qualifying time, charity entry is a great option. The five-borough course is iconic, and the crowds are next level energy.
7. Sydney Marathon (September, added in 2025)
- Field Size: ~35,000 runners (expected)
- Best Way to Get In: Lottery (expected to open in December)
- Other Entry Options: Tour Operators (guaranteed entry packages)
My Thoughts: Since Sydney is new to the Majors, the exact details are still emerging, but it has followed the lottery format, with entries opening in December.
If you prefer a guaranteed entry, tour operators will also provide packages, similar to the other Majors. Sydney offers a unique opportunity to experience a Major race in a stunning setting.
Final Thoughts
Crossing my final Major’s finish line and receiving my Six Star Medal was an unforgettable moment.
If you're on this journey, enjoy every step—each race is an adventure, and trust me, it’s worth it. If you're struggling with getting in, keep trying, explore different entry options, and don’t be afraid to go the charity or tour operator route.
If you're looking for a guaranteed entry option, consider using Race Beyond. As a specialist tour operator, we offer curated travel packages that ensure you can focus on your race while we handle the logistics.
If you have any questions or need advice on a specific race, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help!
Good luck with your journey to the Six Star Medal! 🎖️🏃♂️🌍
