The application window for the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon has opened, giving runners a shot at securing their spot in this iconic and coveted race.
Starting on Feb. 28, runners can test their luck by submitting their applications for the non-guaranteed entry drawing, also referred to as the “New York City Marathon lottery.”
Hosted by the New York Road Runners (NYRR), the organization behind the event, this drawing is the gateway to participating in one of the biggest marathons in the world. The application window remains open until March 21, offering hopefuls ample time to throw their hats into the ring.
For those eagerly awaiting their fate, the tension will come to a head on March 28, affectionately dubbed “Drawing Day.” This is when the NYRR will unveil the lucky recipients of coveted race entries.
Jump to:
- Time Based Qualification
- NYRR 9+1 Program
- How to Enter the Lottery
- What If I Don’t Get In Through the Lottery?
Guaranteed Time Entry Applications (Which Aren’t Entirely Guaranteed)
The guaranteed entry period is now open through March 6, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
If you are a member of the New York Road Runners, this guaranteed entry window remains open until March 21 (the same as the lottery deadline).
There are a number of guaranteed (and not-so-guaranteed) entry methods to secure your spot in the 2024 New York City Marathon if you’ve run a fast half or full marathon between Jan. 1 – Dec. 31, 2023. It definitely helps to have run a qualifying time at a NYRR event, as those times are thoroughly guaranteed. Times from non-NYRR organized races will be honored based on merit.
Here’s a link to this year’s various age graded time-based qualification standards.
NYRR 9+1 Program
The most popular ways to earn entry into the NYC Marathon is through the New York Road Runners (NYRR) 9+1 program.
The first part of completing the 9+1 program for guaranteed entry is registering for and completing 9 qualifying races. The events that count towards the 9+1 program are clearly marked on the NYRR website race calendar.
Unlike many other races, there is no required time for these qualifying events.
The second part of completing the 9+1 program is volunteering at one event, also listed on the NYRR website.
Finally, you must have an active NYRR membership by the end of the qualifying year.
Click here to claim your guaranteed spot.
How to Enter The New York City Marathon Lottery
Non-guaranteed applicants have the chance to secure entry through three distinct applicant pools:
1. “NYC metro area” applicants: This pool encompasses residents within a 60-mile radius of New York City.
2. “National” applicants: This category includes U.S. residents residing outside the NYC metro area, which extends to Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories.
3. “International” applicants: Non-U.S. residents comprise this applicant pool.
Each applicant pool undergoes a separate drawing. Upon selection, you will be required to pay the $255 USD (members) or $315 USD (non-members) entry fee.
Withdrawal from the applicant pool is allowed before the drawing. However, once accepted through any method, all fees become non-refundable and non-transferable. NYRR does not reach out to applicants before acceptance to reconfirm their selection preferences.
Click here to begin your application online.
What If I Don’t Get In From The Lottery
But fret not if luck isn’t on your side this time around; alternative avenues exist for securing participation.
Whether through official charity partners, international tour operators or by running for the NYRR Team for Kids, there are multiple paths to realizing the dream of crossing the marathon’s finish line.
The allure of the TCS New York City Marathon is undeniable.
Last year’s event stood as the world’s largest marathon, boasting an impressive cohort of over 51,000 finishers.
Since its inception in 1970, this race has become a part of running and sporting history, drawing more than 1.2 million runners to date. What sets it apart is not just its sheer scale but also its storied course, which winds through the city’s five boroughs, showcasing the vibrancy and diversity of New York City.
On the heels of the previous year’s triumphs, anticipation for the 2024 edition runs high.
In 2023, Kenya’s Hellen Obiri and Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola emerged victorious, each donning cutting-edge footwear.
Obiri, with her lightning-fast time of 2:27:23, sported the yet-to-be-released On CloudTri 1 shoes, echoing her success at the Boston Marathon earlier in the year.
Meanwhile, Tola shattered records with a time of 2:04:58, powered by a pair of sleek Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1s.
As the application window swings open, runners around the globe are gearing up for their chance to make their mark on the iconic New York City streets. With a strong legacy, the TCS New York City Marathon promises an unforgettable experience for all who dare to lace up their shoes and join the race.
In the words of NYRR, “Claim your spot, set your pace, and let the journey begin!“
