Boston’s most beloved race just got a record-breaking show of love! The Boston Athletic Association has announced that a record 33,649 qualifying runners applied during registration week for the 131st Boston Marathon, presented by Bank of America — the largest qualifier pool in the race’s storied history.
The world-famous point-to-point race from Hopkinton to Boylston Street will be run on Monday, April 19, 2027, and getting a bib was tougher than ever. Runners who beat their age-group qualifying time by at least 5 minutes and 17 seconds were accepted, with 25,630 athletes already accepted or in the final verification process.
Here’s a brand-new twist for 2027: the B.A.A. introduced the Boston Qualifier Selection, a random draw that gives 1,000 more runners — those who qualified but fell within that 5:17 window — a chance to earn their way onto the historic course. It’s the race’s way of honoring the dedication of everyone who chases the dream.
“Earning a spot into this race takes dedication and resiliency,” said B.A.A. President and CEO Jack Fleming, who welcomed the thousands of new entrants into the 131st edition. The full field will total 30,000 official entrants, including charity runners, invited professionals and Para athletes.
From the roaring crowds of Wellesley to the thunder of Heartbreak Hill, April 19, 2027 promises another unforgettable Patriots’ Day in Boston. See you at the finish line!
Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.
