
Didn’t Get Into the Marathon Ballot? Here Are Your Options
From FORDY RUNS Podcast by FORDY RUNS
May 28, 2026 · 41 min · Season 3 · Episode 38
About this episode
This episode discusses options for runners who missed out on marathon ballot entries and explores alternative ways to participate in major marathons.
Missed out in the marathon ballot? You’re definitely not alone. In this episode, we break down the reality of marathon ballot odds, why getting into the biggest races is harder than ever, and most importantly — the different ways you can still run a World Marathon Major without a ballot place. We dive into the latest marathon statistics, acceptance rates, and demand for races like the London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, New York City Marathon, Chicago Marathon and more. We also explore alternative entry routes including charity places, tour operators, qualifying times, good for age entries, club entries, and other strategies runners are using to secure a place on the start line. Whether you’ve just received a rejection email or you’re planning your next big race, this episode will help you understand your options and build a smarter path towards running a marathon major. Topics covered: Marathon ballot statistics and odds Why marathon majors are becoming harder to enter Alternative ways into the World Marathon Majors Charity places vs ballot entries Good For Age and qualifying standards International tour packages and travel entries Tips for improving your chances next year If you…
People in this episode
Host: FORDY RUNS
Topics covered
- marathon ballot statistics
- alternative entry routes
- World Marathon Majors
- charity places
- qualifying times
- running strategies
Keywords
- marathon ballot
- entry options
- World Marathon Majors
- charity entries
- qualifying standards
- running tips
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, New York City Marathon, Chicago Marathon
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