How to Leverage the “Double Dip” Period for Consecutive Boston Marathon Qualifications
Who doesn’t love a fantastic two-for-one deal? We’ve discovered a clever way to earn a Boston qualifying (BQ) time that remains valid for two years.
By participating in a qualifying race in early September, runners can use their time to register for both the upcoming Boston Marathon and the one following it.
Two BQ Marathon Times
Let me explain!
Let’s consider the 2024 Boston Marathon. Recently, race organizers announced that registration for the April event will take place this year between September 11 and September 15. To be eligible for registration, applicants must submit a valid BQ marathon run between September 1, 2022, and the end of registration, which is September 15, 2023, at 5 p.m.
For 2025 the qualification window opens on September 1, 2023.
During this unique two-week period, from September 1 to September 15, 2023, where the qualifying periods overlap, race results count towards qualifying for the next two Boston Marathons, 2024 and 2025.
Naturally, since most races occur on weekends, this double-dipping opportunity is limited to races held on only four days this year: September 2 and 3, and September 9 and 10.
If you’re seeking a race to secure a qualifying time that applies to two consecutive Boston Marathons, it’s essential to ensure that the race is USATF certified for domestic events or AIMS certified for international events.
While earning a qualifying time for your age and gender doesn’t guarantee entry into the race (and we cannot predict the cutoff for the 2024 event), here are a few races in the US and Canada taking place on those September days that, if you’re fast enough, may boost your chances of starting in Hopkinton for two consecutive years.
Six September Marathons to Qualify for the Boston Marathon
- Location: Georgina, Ontario
- Date: Sunday, September 10
- Registration Fee: $150
- Course Overview: The courses are FAST, FLAT, and SCENIC and run along a quiet road with lots of shade and views of stunning properties. It’s a two-loop route.
- Location: Marquette, Michigan
- Date: Saturday, September 2
- Registration Fee: $125
- Course Overview: This point-to-point course descends 814 feet alongside Lake Superior, finishing at the Superior Dome on Northern Michigan University’s campus.
- Location: Koloa, Hawaii
- Date: Sunday, September 3
- Registration Fee: $265
- Course Overview: Expect hills and humidity. While the course poses challenges for achieving a BQ, the breathtaking scenery makes the experience worthwhile.
- Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
- Date: Saturday, September 9
- Registration Fee: $115
- Course Overview: This point-to-point course drops an impressive 5,255 feet along the route. Prepare your quads, as the average finishing time is 4:03, which is considered fast by U.S. standards.
Abebe Bikila Day International Peace Marathon
- Location: Washington, D.C.
- Date: Saturday, September 9
- Registration Fee: $90
- Course Overview: This no-frills out-and-back race takes place on the canal path alongside the Potomac River. In 2022, 21 out of 118 marathoners achieved a BQ.
- Location: Geneva, Illinois
- Date: Saturday, September 9
- Registration Fee: $155
- Course Overview: Designed specifically to help runners qualify for Boston, this race requires participants to be close to the qualifying standard for their age group and gender, either by showing an “almost” result at a different marathon or a comparable half marathon time
Qualifying to Boston
In conclusion, the opportunity to secure spots in the prestigious Boston Marathon for consecutive years through strategic timing is an exhilarating prospect for dedicated runners. By taking advantage of the “double dip” window in early September, you can maximize your chances of obtaining a qualifying time that will count not only for the upcoming Boston Marathon but also for the following year’s event.
Remember, the road to Boston is paved with determination, perseverance, and a deep passion for running. As you lace up your shoes and embark on your training journey, let the excitement of double-dipping fuel your motivation. The races mentioned in this article offer a range of challenges and unique experiences, each with the potential to propel you towards your Boston Marathon dreams.
Stay focused, set your sights on achieving that coveted BQ time, and never underestimate the power of your own determination. With hard work, dedication, and a touch of luck, you may find yourself crossing the finish line in Hopkinton not just once, but twice in consecutive years.
Embrace the challenge, trust in your training, and remember that the true victory lies not only in reaching the Boston Marathon but also in the journey of personal growth and accomplishment along the way. So, set your goals high, believe in yourself, and may your path to Boston be filled with incredible moments, unforgettable experiences, and the satisfaction of achieving your dreams.
