The Abbott World Marathon Majors is an incredible series that brings together six of the most prestigious marathons in the world. These races are considered the pinnacle of marathon running and attract elite athletes, as well as thousands of participants from all over the globe. I’ve had the privilege of participating in some of these races and can attest to the incredible experiences they offer.
1. Tokyo Marathon: The Tokyo Marathon is held annually in the capital city of Japan. It is known for its fast and flat course, which allows runners to achieve their best times. The race takes participants through the bustling streets of Tokyo, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Tower. The support from spectators is amazing, with crowds lining the route to cheer on the runners.
2. Boston Marathon: The Boston Marathon is the oldest annual marathon in the world and holds a special place in the hearts of runners. Held on Patriots’ Day in April, this race is steeped in history and tradition. The course is challenging, with the infamous Heartbreak Hill testing participants’ endurance. The atmosphere in Boston is electric, with the entire city coming out to support the runners. Qualifying for the Boston Marathon is a significant achievement for any runner.
3. TCS London Marathon: The London Marathon is one of the most iconic races in the world, attracting a diverse field of participants. The course takes runners through the streets of London, passing by landmarks like the Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace. The support from the crowds is fantastic, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere throughout the race. The London Marathon is also known for its charitable fundraising, with thousands of runners raising money for various causes.
4. BMW BERLIN-MARATHON: The Berlin Marathon is famous for its fast and flat course, making it a favorite among elite runners aiming for personal bests and world records. The race starts and finishes near the iconic Brandenburg Gate, and the course takes participants through the historic and vibrant streets of Berlin. The atmosphere is electric, with enthusiastic spectators cheering on the runners. The Berlin Marathon is also known for its world-record-breaking performances, most notably by Eliud Kipchoge in 2018.
5. Bank of America Chicago Marathon: The Chicago Marathon is renowned for its fast and flat course, making it a popular choice for runners looking to achieve their best times. The race takes participants through the diverse neighborhoods of Chicago, with highlights including the magnificent skyline and the iconic “Bean” sculpture in Millennium Park. Spectators line the route, providing an incredible atmosphere and support for the runners. The Chicago Marathon is also known for its exceptional organization and runner-friendly amenities.
6. TCS New York City Marathon: The New York City Marathon is the largest marathon in the world, attracting over 50,000 runners from around the globe. The course takes participants through all five boroughs of New York City, offering a unique and diverse running experience. From the start on Staten Island to the finish in Central Park, the race showcases the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty. The crowd support is legendary, with millions of spectators lining the streets to cheer on the runners.
These six races make up the Abbott World Marathon Majors, representing the pinnacle of marathon running. Each race offers a unique experience, combining challenging courses, incredible atmosphere, and the opportunity to run in some of the world’s most iconic cities. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a recreational runner, participating in any of these races is an unforgettable experience that celebrates the spirit of marathon running.