Boston Marathon Plans 2025 Race with 32,000 Runners

The Boston Marathon, marking its 129th running, is one of the world's most prestigious races and now part of the 'big six' global marathons, recently expanded to include Sydney. Originating in 1897 and inspired by the Olympic marathon, it annually draws over 30,000 runners to its historic route through eight Massachusetts communities. This year, Bob Hall and Bill Rodgers will serve as grand marshals, honoring Hall’s groundbreaking 1975 finish as the first wheelchair athlete, which led to the creation of the marathon’s wheelchair division and broader inclusion in the sport. The 2025 field features elite competitors, celebrated past champions, and notable personalities, highlighting both tradition and diversity. Alongside the official race, Boston’s running culture is further enriched by grassroots events like the PIONEERS Run Crew’s 26.TRUE, a more accessible, community-focused marathon emphasizing representation and inclusivity within the city’s historically underrepresented neighborhoods. These developments underscore the Boston Marathon’s lasting legacy of athletic excellence and expanding inclusivity.