This idea of putting together a list of lottery races started a few weeks ago. I sat down to write out my running and racing goals for 2016. A few local half marathon’s made the list as I’ve already signed up the Go Girl Run and Memorial Half Marathon. So my racing calendar for the early part of the year pretty much set. However, I want to do one BIG race that requires travel. Last year, I had just started getting back into running and Route 66 Half Marathon was my BIG race. This year I want to go even BIGGER/FUTHER. I’ve even been toying with the idea of running a full marathon but I’m not completely sold. I’m uncertain if I’m physically ready for the strain or the time commitment that a full marathon requires. I think the only way I’ll be brave enough to actually sign up and complete one is if I am able to run in a BIG name event. So that’s where lottery marathons come in.
A lottery marathon is just want it sounds like. You basically put your name in the hat and if your name gets pulled you don’t get a windfall financial reward, but you do get to pay an expensive race registration, travel and hotel expense. Oh,and you also get to race in one of the most prestigious races in the country. Sounds great, right? Well, I sure thought so.
So here’s how, or more importantly when, to register for the lottery of America’s 5 biggest marathons. Some of them are even among the biggest marathons in the world.
I think I may try my luck with Chicago. Which one are you planning to register for? Do you feel lucky?
Location: New York City, NY
Race Date: November 6 ,2016
Lottery Registration Dates: January 21st – February 21st 2016
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
Location: Chicago, IL
Race Date: October 9 ,2016
Lottery Registration Dates: March 15th – April 12th 2016
Location: Washington, D.C.
Race Date: October 30th, 2016
Lottery Registration Dates: March 24th – March 30th 2016
Location: Two Harbors to Duluth, Minnesota
Race Date: Mid-June 2017
Lottery Registration Dates: October 1st – October 31st, 2016
Location: Utah
Race Date: October 1st, 2016
Lottery Registration Dates: April 1st – May 2nd 2016
I am planning on entering the lottery for the Chicago Marathon. Everyone I know that entered last year got in so I am praying I am as lucky this year.
I am running the NYC marathon in November with a few friends. We are doing charity bibs. You should think about joining us. It would be a blast. Oklahoma has the best runners!