Qualifying for the Boston Marathon is a prestigious goal for many runners, and selecting the right race can significantly impact your chances. Based on data from FindMyMarathon.com, here are the top 20 marathons with the highest percentage of Boston Qualifiers (BQ%) in 2024:

1. U.S. Olympic Trials Marathon (2024) – Orlando, FL
   • BQ%: 100%
   • Number of Qualifiers: 267
   • As the pinnacle of competitive marathoning in the U.S., all participants in this race have met stringent qualifying standards, resulting in a 100% BQ rate.
2. Oak Ridge to Kingston Express Marathon – Oak Ridge, TN
   • BQ%: 78.6%
   • Number of Qualifiers: 11
   • This race offers a fast course that has enabled a high percentage of its participants to achieve Boston qualifying times.
3. Last Chance BQ.2 Marathon – Geneva, IL
   • BQ%: 70.8%
   • Number of Qualifiers: 150
   • Specifically designed for runners aiming to qualify for Boston, this marathon provides an optimal environment to achieve qualifying times.
4. Last Chance BQ.2 (Grand Rapids) Marathon – Grand Rapids, MI
   • BQ%: 67.2%
   • Number of Qualifiers: 121
   • Similar to its Illinois counterpart, this race focuses on providing a course conducive to Boston qualification.
5. Oak Ridge Qualifier Marathon – Oak Ridge, TN
   • BQ%: 63.2%
   • Number of Qualifiers: 12
   • Another strong performer from Oak Ridge, this marathon boasts a high BQ percentage among its participants.
6. Bound for Boston (Las Vegas) Marathon – Henderson, NV
   • BQ%: 60%
   • Number of Qualifiers: 3
   • A smaller race with a significant success rate for those aiming to qualify for Boston.
7. Spring Chance BQ.2 Marathon – Geneva, IL
   • BQ%: 59%
   • Number of Qualifiers: 82
   • Held in the spring, this race offers another opportunity for runners targeting a Boston qualifying time.
8. Charles River Marathon – Boston, MA
   • BQ%: 55.2%
   • Number of Qualifiers: 112
   • Set along the scenic Charles River, this marathon provides a flat course ideal for fast times.
9. Florida Track Club Marathon – Hawthorne, FL
   • BQ%: 48.7%
   • Number of Qualifiers: 18
   • Organized by the Florida Track Club, this race has a notable success rate for Boston qualifiers.
10. Boston Marathon – Boston, MA
    • BQ%: 42.7%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 10,908
    • As the goal race for many, a significant portion of its participants requalify on this historic course.
11. Hawaii Bird Conservation Marathon – Hilo, HI
    • BQ%: 41.7%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 53
    • This marathon combines a beautiful Hawaiian setting with a course that supports fast times.
12. Georgina Marathon – Georgina, ON
    • BQ%: 41.7%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 140
    • Located in Ontario, this race offers a favorable course for those seeking to qualify for Boston.
13. REVEL Mt. Charleston Marathon – Las Vegas, NV
    • BQ%: 41.4%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 705
    • Known for its significant downhill course, this marathon is popular among runners aiming for a BQ.
14. Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon – North Bend, WA
    • BQ%: 39.9%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 340
    • Featuring a gentle downhill through a scenic route, this race is a favorite for many Boston hopefuls.
15. Erie Marathon – Erie, PA
    • BQ%: 38.9%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 397
    • With a flat double-loop course in Presque Isle State Park, Erie Marathon is known for its high BQ rate.
16. Cheap Marathon – Derry, NH
    • BQ%: 35.3%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 139
    • This budget-friendly race offers a course that has led to many Boston qualifying times.
17. Beantown Marathon – Hingham, MA
    1. BQ%: 35.3%
    2. Number of Qualifiers: 97
    3. Why it ranks: Close to Boston, this marathon provides a local option with a fast, double-loop course specifically designed to help runners achieve their qualifying times. The race’s smaller size allows for ideal pacing and minimal congestion, making it a great choice for serious BQ seekers.

18. Columbus Marathon – Columbus, OH

    • BQ%: 34.9%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 1,003
    • Why it ranks: A well-organized, fast course with strong crowd support, ideal for a BQ attempt.

19.  St. George Marathon – St. George, UT

    • BQ%: 34.3%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 1,167
    • Why it ranks: A major downhill course in a stunning desert setting, popular for fast times.
20.  Sugarloaf Marathon – Kingfield, ME
    • BQ%: 34.0%
    • Number of Qualifiers: 256
    • Why it ranks: A scenic, point-to-point race with a net downhill profile, making it a strong contender for runners chasing a Boston Qualifier.

Choosing the Right Marathon for Your BQ Attempt

Each of these races has its own unique advantages—whether it’s a fast, downhill course like St. George and REVEL Mt. Charleston or a flat and consistent route like Erie and Columbus. Your best bet is to consider factors like elevation changes, weather conditions, and race size when picking your perfect BQ attempt.

If you’re aiming for the Boston Marathon in 2026, these races could be your best shot at securing a qualifying time in 2025. Happy training, and best of luck on your journey to Boston! 🚀🏃‍♂️