Make 2025 Your Best Running Year Yet
Whether you're chasing a personal best at a major city marathon, tackling your first trail race, or simply looking for a fun community event to keep you motivated, 2025 has no shortage of incredible running events. Here's a curated look at some of the most exciting races on the global calendar.
Spring Events (March–May)
Tokyo Marathon — March
One of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Tokyo Marathon is renowned for its impeccably organised logistics, extraordinary crowd support, and a flat, fast course through one of the world's most fascinating cities. Entry is by ballot or through international travel partners. The course winds through major landmarks including Asakusa and finishes near Tokyo Station.
Boston Marathon — April
The world's oldest annual marathon and arguably the most prestigious. What makes Boston unique is the qualifying standard — you must run a fast enough time at a certified marathon to gain entry, making a "BQ" (Boston Qualifier) a major goal for many dedicated runners. The famous Heartbreak Hill at mile 20 is a rite of passage.
London Marathon — April
A bucket-list race for runners worldwide. The London Marathon's flat course, iconic landmarks, and electric atmosphere make it one of the most memorable marathon experiences available. Entry is via public ballot or charity place.
Summer Events (June–August)
Comrades Marathon (South Africa) — June
Not a marathon at all in the traditional sense — the Comrades is an 89km ultramarathon between Durban and Pietermaritzburg in South Africa, alternating direction each year. It's one of the world's most challenging and celebrated ultramarathons, drawing runners from across the globe. The cut-off time of 12 hours makes it uniquely inclusive for dedicated ultra runners.
Midnight Sun Marathon (Norway) — June
Run above the Arctic Circle in Tromsø, Norway, with the sun still high in the sky at midnight. This extraordinary race offers a genuinely unique experience for those who want a marathon that's as much about adventure as it is about time. The course is challenging with some hills, but the scenery and experience are unmatched.
Autumn Events (September–November)
Berlin Marathon — September
Arguably the fastest marathon course in the world — more world records have been set in Berlin than any other race. The flat, smooth course through the streets of the German capital attracts elite runners and time-chasers alike. If a personal best is your goal, Berlin is where dreams come true.
Chicago Marathon — October
Another World Marathon Major, Chicago's flat-as-a-pancake course through 29 city neighbourhoods is ideal for fast times. The city's famous hospitality and diverse spectator crowds create an exceptional race-day atmosphere.
New York City Marathon — November
The world's largest marathon by finisher count, running through all five boroughs of New York City. The course is more challenging than it looks on paper — with several bridges and rolling terrain — but finishing through Central Park is one of sport's great emotional experiences.
Trail & Ultra Highlights
- UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc), August: The flagship of trail ultrarunning — 170km around Mont Blanc through France, Italy, and Switzerland. Entry is by lottery.
- Highland Fling (Scotland), April/May: A stunning 53-mile trail race along the West Highland Way — a fantastic UK ultra option.
- Lakeland 100 (England), July: A 100-mile loop of the Lake District, widely regarded as one of the toughest 100-mile races in Europe.
How to Plan Your Race Year
- Pick your A-race first — the one event you most want to nail — and build your training year around it.
- Add B-races for practice — smaller local events as tune-up races four to six weeks before your main event.
- Check entry deadlines early — major marathons often open ballots a full year in advance.
- Factor in travel and recovery time — especially for destination races overseas.
Whatever your goal distance or location, 2025 offers an event to inspire you. Sign up, start training, and make this your year.