A MOMENT
IN TIME
Kipruto and Mutiso deliver a finish for the ages in New York
As 2025 draws to a close, I am once again reflecting on a momentous year in this incredible sport.
We have twice seen the world record for finishers tumble at AbbottWMM events, with New York toppling London from the No. 1 spot in our final race of the season, and all of our events experiencing surges in popularity that we have never seen before.
But the sheer numbers don’t tell the full story. Among those hundreds of thousands of runners out there on the roads are countless stories that show us all just how inspiring this community is.
In Tokyo we saw the first ever duo teams to earn the Six Star Medal enter the Hall of Fame, striking another blow in our races’ tireless work on inclusion. That same day, Paula Radcliffe, a former Majors winner and world record holder, went chasing her fifth star.
She then got her own Six Star medal in Boston, proving that this journey has become something treasured even by runners who have scaled the highest peaks in running.
London witnessed Tigst Assefa race to a new women’s only world record and, in August, Sydney joined the party in spectacular fashion.
Race director Wayne Larden and his team made their Majors debut in spectacular style, proving a fantastic seventh member of the series.
In Berlin the sun shone on a tough day for the runners, but no one was tougher than the indomitable Cedric King, who brought a tear to my eye as he finally earned that sixth star.
Chicago set the stage for Jacob Kiplimo to show us what he could do, and New York closed the show with a new course record in the women’s race and a thrilling finish by the top two men.
Central Park also provided the backdrop for the crowning moment in a glittering career for Eliud Kipchoge. Standing on the finish line with him as he was presented with his own Six Star medal was an unforgettable moment, and to see what it meant to him showed me just how special this movement is.
Another 12 months packed with highlights, but I cannot sign off for the year without a mention of our friends in Cape Town. We were all devastated for the team there when they had to cancel their race at the 11th hour.
We know what it would have meant to them to secure their second evaluation pass, but it was heartwarming to see the reaction of the running community as well as the steadfast support the team received from the AbbottWMM family.
I have every confidence that May 2026 will be their moment, and do not doubt for a second that the year ahead will be another full of highlight-reel memories!
Dawna Stone, CEO, Abbott World Marathon Majors
The Image
An emotional Eliud Kipchoge was reduced to tears after being presented with his Six Star Medal just moments after crossing the finishing line of the TCS New York City Marathon.
The Kenyan is widely regarded as the greatest marathon runner of all time having won 11 Abbott World Marathon Majors and two Olympic golds, breaking multiple world records in the process. He is also the only person to run a sub-2:00 marathon.
Despite unprecedented success and single-handedly reimagining what’s possible in the sport, Kipchoge was visibly moved after completing the last of the six original Majors.
“I am a real marathon runner now,” he said before adding that his legacy was now sealed.
Image: Creagh Cross
The Image
An emotional Eliud Kipchoge was reduced to tears after being presented with his Six Star Medal just moments after crossing the finishing line of the TCS New York City Marathon.
The Kenyan is widely regarded as the greatest marathon runner of all time having won 11 Abbott World Marathon Majors and two Olympic golds, breaking multiple world records in the process. He is also the only person to run a sub-2:00 marathon.
Despite unprecedented success and single-handedly reimagining what’s possible in the sport, Kipchoge was visibly moved after completing the last of the six original Majors.
“I am a real marathon runner now,” he said before adding that his legacy was now sealed.
Image: Creagh Cross
THE WARMUP
Tokyo goes green
The Tokyo Marathon Foundation has signed a sustainability partnership with climate tech company ASUENE.
ASUENE will support phased Greenhouse Gas (GHG) measurement and reduction initiatives for the Tokyo Marathon from 2026 to 2028. In 2026 they will conduct a baseline carbon footprint analysis to help enhance sustainable event management toward the race’s 20th anniversary in 2027.
Tadaaki Hayano, Chairman, Tokyo Marathon Foundation said: “Our mission is to ‘change the future through the joy of running.’ By partnering with ASUENE, we will accelerate GHG measurement and reduction initiatives as we work to create a more sustainable Tokyo Marathon.”
10,000 newcomers set for Boston
More than 10,000 athletes will race the 2026 Boston Marathon as debutants. Runners learned their qualifying fate in September this year, with 24,362 qualified applicants making the cut into the field for the 130th edition from 33,249 applicants. The cut-off time was four minutes and 34 seconds for each respective age group and gender, down from the six minutes and 51 seconds needed for the 2025 event. Alongside the 10,710 first-timers, 719 entrants were accepted based on finishing 10 or more consecutive Boston Marathons.
Charity total tops record books
The £87.3 million raised by runners in the 2025 TCS London Marathon obliterated the race’s previous record, set in 2024, of £73.5m. London’s fundraising total since the event’s inception is now at a staggering £1.4 billion.
Hugh Brasher, CEO of London Marathon Events, described the record £87.3m raised as “phenomenal”. He said: “Thousands of charities directly benefit from the money raised by the incredible efforts of those who ran 26.2 miles on Sunday 27 April, helping these organizations make a difference all year round.”
Sydney sets the pace with huge second ballot
More than 123,000 applicants entered the ballot for a place in the 2026 TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS. The figure is a 56% increase in 2025 numbers, and race director Wayne Larden has set his sights on 40,000 finishers in next year’s event. He said: “2025 was a landmark year for the TCS Sydney Marathon and for Australian sport. The city embraced the marathon in spectacular fashion, with record participation, hundreds of thousands of spectators and incredible global attention.”
Berlin 2026 lottery results are out
The lottery for a place in the 2026 BMW BERLIN-MARATHON is now closed. Applicants have been notified by email whether they have been successful. The 2025 edition recorded 48,020 finishers in warm conditions, with the highest recorded temperature reaching 27.6ºC. Someone who definitely set pulses racing was pop star Harry Styles, who ran under the non de plume Sted Sarandos, and clocked an impressive 2:59:13.
2026 applicants set to learn their fate
Applicants for a place in the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon will be notified via email of their entry status on Thursday, December 11. The 2025 event saw more than 54,000 finishers cross the line on Columbus Drive and was a landmark day for American marathon running. Conner Mantz set a new US Men’s marathon record, taking nearly 60 seconds off the old mark to finish fourth in 2:04:43. Winner Jacob Kiplmo clocked 2:02:23 to go second on the list of quickest times in 2025.
Records tumbled in New York City
The TCS New York City Marathon reclaimed the title of the world's largest marathon after they confirmed 59,229 runners finished their race in November. There was a high international presence with 18,660 runners representing 131 nations. All 50 US states had runners present. The records continued to tumble in the elite races with Benson Kipruto's winning margin of three hundredths of a second being the closest winning margin in history. Hellen Obiri then smashed a 22-year old course record by winning the women's race.
THE PHILOSOPHER'S
APPRENTICE
For more than a decade, no athlete has influenced the marathon quite like Eliud Kipchoge. Even casual followers of marathon racing will recognise his name and his achievements. From multiple Abbott World Marathon Major victories to Olympic titles and a world record, Kipchoge’s contribution to the event is undeniable.
His final elite appearance came at the 2025 New York City Marathon, where he finished 17th and completed his ambition to run all seven Majors. With that milestone reached, Kipchoge is stepping away from competitive racing and turning his attention to Eliud’s Running World, a two-year, seven-continent world tour focusing on education and environmental sustainability. “It’s a new beginning,” he said. “From now on, I’ll run for a greater purpose.”
As he moves into this next phase, he leaves the sport at a moment of transition. Kipchoge’s consistency and longevity have set a benchmark that few have come close to. Now, attention inevitably shifts to the athletes capable of defining the coming decade and while no clear successor has emerged, several marathoners have shown the potential to fill his well-worn shoes.
Sebastian Sawe: The Standout Performer
At 29, Kenya’s Sebastian Sawe is the name most frequently mentioned as the next leading force. His marathon debut of 2:02:05 in Valencia in 2024 immediately placed him among the fastest in history, and he followed it with victories in London and Berlin in 2025. His ability to perform even in difficult conditions suggests a strong long-term trajectory. With three wins from three attempts, Sawe currently looks the most obvious candidate to take over at the very top of the event.
Tamirat Tola: Proven Pedigree
Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola, 34, brings experience and major-championship pedigree. An Olympic champion and former world champion, he has shown the capacity to deliver on the biggest stages. His 2025 season was quieter, including a fifth-place finish in London, but his background ensures he remains a key figure as the marathon evolves.
Alexander Mutiso: Tactics Matter
29-year-old Alexander Mutiso, winner of the 2024 TCS London Marathon, has developed a reputation for intelligent racing and well-timed surges. The Kenyan's 2:03:11 best places him firmly in the world-class bracket, and consistent podium finishes in 2025, including third place in the 2025 London marathon and second place at TCS New York City Marathon 2025, indicate he will remain competitive in the biggest races.
"Marathon running may be entering a period without a clear figurehead among its male runners, but it is not entering a period without excitement. The next generation is already making its mark and the race to lead the sport into the future is only just beginning."
Benson Kipruto: The Serial Major Winner
Few athletes can match Benson Kipruto’s range of success. With victories in Boston, Chicago, Tokyo and New York as well as a course record in Tokyo, the 34-year-old has shown the ability to adapt to a variety of courses and conditions. His win in New York in 2025, beating a strong field, reinforced his status as one of the most reliable performers in the sport. Indeed it was one of the best finishes ever seen in an Abbott World Marathon Major with Kipruto and Mutiso side-by-side as they entered the final mile with Kipruto managing to sneak ahead as the pair turned into Central Park.
Jacob Kiplimo: A Threat in the Making
Already a half-marathon world record holder, Jacob Kiplimo transitioned impressively to the marathon in 2025. A 2:03:37 second place on debut in London was followed by a win in Chicago in 2:02:23, immediately placing him among the fastest active runners. If the 25-year-old Ugandan continues to adapt well to the full distance, he could quickly become one of the major contenders.
Mengesha and Esa: Rising Depth
Milkesa Mengesha, winner of the 2024 Berlin Marathon, and Mohamed Esa, a consistent podium finisher, provide further depth to the field. Esa, in particular, has been close to major victories with a run of silver medals across multiple races. Either of these 25-year-old athletes could make a breakthrough in the years ahead.
Kipchoge’s exit from elite competition marks the end of an era, but it also highlights the sport’s growing depth. There may not be a single, dominant figure to draw comparisons with but what we could see instead is that over the next few years there is a broader contest among several athletes with different strengths. Marathon running is be entering a period without a clear No. 1 among its male runners, but it is not entering a period without excitement. The next generation is already making its mark and the race to lead the sport into the future is only just beginning.
A MOMENT IN TIME
Kipruto and Mutiso deliver a finish for the ages in New York
CEDRIC KING
FORMER US SERVICEMAN COLLECTS SIXTH STAR IN BERLIN
Of all the remarkable sights in Berlin, few were more inspiring than the image of a visibly exhausted and pained Cedric King willing himself through Brandenburg Gate towards the finish line.
Boisterously cheered on by the crowds along Strasse des 17 Juni and regularly patted on the back by encouraging runners – who all recognised he needed a boost – King summoned up one last effort in the sweltering heat to stagger past the grandstand and hospitality areas and over the line.
As he slumped over the crowd barrier while a stretcher was being assembled to take him to the medical tent, King would have reflected on his Six Star Journey that 11 years ago would have seemed impossible.
A former US staff sergeant, King lost both legs when he trod on an IED while serving in Afghanistan in 2013. Years of rebuilding body and soul followed. Learning to walk gave way to an ambitious and emotional 5km in his hometown of Wilmington. That lit the fire that incredibly led to him lining up at the start of the Boston Marathon.
Four more Majors followed and in September, ten years after first conquering Heartbreak Hill, he hauled himself over the line in Berlin, completing an unlikely Six Star Journey.
It was the second time he had completed the 26.2 miles in the German capital but, unlike in 2021 when he missed the cut-off time, this run actually counted as an official finish.
“I did not tap out when things got hard,” he said.
Mother City made to wait for Major status
Cape Town will try again in May 2026 after weather causes cancellation
The morning of October 19 was due to be the start of a red letter day in the history of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.
That was until organizers and runners awoke to scenes of devastation in the race village and around the route that ultimately led to the race’s cancellation.
The damage inflicted by some freak gusts of wind in the early hours of race morning was too much to rectify in the short time the team had, leaving officials no choice other than to call the event off.
With the cancellation came the realization that the ambition to become Africa’s first Major would be a dream delayed. But not a dream denied.
The race, which had already planned to shift in the calendar in 2026, will go ahead on May 24 next year. Efforts are now fully refocused on securing Cape Town’s second evaluation pass in its candidacy to become part of the AbbottWMM series.
Clark Gardner, race CEO, said: “After a near-perfect day on Saturday for our Peace Run 10km and 5km events, and our three Cape Town Marathon Trail Races, we were all looking forward to the biggest edition of the marathon to date, with the strongest field ever assembled for a marathon on African soil, and passing stage two of our candidacy assessment to achieving Majors status. Our team had worked for months on this event, planning for all scenarios, but a bigger force had the final say.”
Disappointment was soothed by a timely announcement from Cape Town’s title sponsor, Sanlam, who declared it would be sponsoring 2025 participants’ entries into the 2026 or 2027 event.
This was followed by a decision from AbbottWMM that every finisher in 2026 would be awarded a provisional star which will be fully recognized once the race secures its second pass.
“We look forward to being back in Cape Town in May next year to see both the runners, and the race, get over that finish line,” said AbbottWMM CEO Dawna Stone.
The 2026 event will also host the AbbottWMM Marathon Tours & Travel Age Group World Championships.
Elsewhere in the candidacy program, the Shanghai Marathon underwent its second assessment on November 30. Shanghai must also earn two passes of the AbbottWMM criteria to gain entry to the series.
STILL
FLYING
AT 80
At the 2025 New York City Marathon, 80-year-old Chris Gould crossed the finish line in 4:21:04 setting new 80+ championship record and running his fastest marathon in six years. We spoke to Chris about his extraordinary performance and what it means to keep improving and inspiring in his 80s...
Congratulations on setting a new 80+ championship record in New York. How did it feel to run your fastest marathon in six years and win your age group?
It felt amazing. I’m still wondering where it came from. Honestly, I was astonished. When I looked at my watch at mile 24 and saw I was just at the four-hour mark, I couldn’t believe it. I had a similar feeling once in Boston, that sense that everything was coming together, but this felt even more surprising. I don’t know if I’ll ever have another race like that again. You always hope for one more, but this one was special.
You didn’t actually start running until age 60. How did that happen?
Growing up in the UK, I played soccer my whole life until my back started giving me trouble. Running wasn’t something I ever saw myself doing seriously. But I remember in 1994, Oprah (Winfrey) ran the Marine Corps Marathon, and it made the papers. I cut the article out and stuck it on my fridge. I even walked into my office and said, "if she can do it, I can do it." But then ten years went by before I actually did anything about it.
When I turned 60, that clipping was still nagging at me. I finally bought a treadmill because I was worried I’d keel over somewhere if I ran outdoors! But the treadmill sparked something, I joined a local running club and from there I just kept going. Boston became the goal and I’ve now run around 40 to 45 marathons, plus a few ultras.
What has kept you motivated to continue running so strongly into your 80s?
One of the things that has really kept me in the sport is an email group that formed among runners aged 75 and older. A fellow runner looked up everyone our age who had run Boston about six years ago and reached out. We support each other through training, injury setbacks and the realities of aging! Even though it’s virtual, it has kept us all running. We cheer each other on, complain together, laugh together and keep each other accountable.
I have always felt that running is a gift, something I’ve been blessed with. Not everyone gets to keep running into their 80s, so I don’t take a single mile for granted.
How did your preparation for the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon compare to previous years?
This year my preparation was steadier. I didn’t have any major setbacks, and I was able to build fitness gradually. I’m not someone who needs massive mileage anymore. I’ve learned that with age, it’s more about staying healthy, doing the right things, and not overdoing it. So my training was consistent but not excessive - the goal was to reach the start line strong and uninjured. That’s half the battle!
Your strength training and Pilates routine seem to have had a major impact. How important were they to your performance?
I had complained to Harvard Professor, Dan Lieberman, that I was getting older and losing muscle mass. I asked him what I could do, thinking the answer would be that it’s all downhill. But he told me muscle is the biggest organ in the body and you can build it at any age. The key is having a trainer so you learn to do it properly. I read an article recently asking how you stop the decline after age 70. The answer was simple: you don’t need more running. You need more muscle. And I think that’s true for everyone, not just older runners. And Pilates has saved me two or three times when I thought I might never run again. So both have been absolutely crucial.
"I have always felt that running is a gift - something I’ve been blessed with. Not everyone gets to keep running into their 80s, so I don’t take a single mile for granted."
You’ve mentioned that hearing Nick Thompson speak at the New York Expo had a big impact on your race strategy, tell us why?
Nick is the CEO of The Atlantic and was, at age 40, the fastest CEO in the United States. At the expo he talked about how tech is wonderful and monitors are getting more sophisticated, but sometimes you need to throw it all away. He said we should ‘run like a child in the forest and find the joy again’. The idea is that your brain is what holds you back as it tells you your body is hurting before it actually is.
At mile 16 I decided to stop looking at my watch. All you can see at that point is runners stretching out ahead for miles. But once I stopped checking the numbers, I got swept along. It was an amazing, freeing feeling. That was a turning point for me.
At what point in the race did you realise you were running significantly better than expected?
Definitely mile 24. Not only was I ahead of schedule, but I felt good. I remember thinking wow, I’m here at mile 24, and I’m actually feeling strong. Then suddenly I was in Central Park, with the ups and downs and all the twists, but everything was flowing. When I saw the 7:49 pace group go by, then another group, I realized they were going a bit faster than me but not by much. I don’t think I would have felt that if I had started at the very back like I usually do. The early start meant I was running among people moving at the pace I needed.
What stands out most from those final miles into Central Park?
The crowd. You don’t hear individual voices, just a massive wall of noise. Nick Thompson was right about that - it picks you up whether you want it to or not. You’re exhausted but suddenly you’re moving again because the energy is so strong. That stretch through Central Park will stay with me forever.
How did your decision to stop checking your watch between miles 16 and 24 affect your mindset?
It made me run by feel. And at my age, running by feel is everything. If I had been checking the watch, I might have slowed down out of caution or sped up too early. Instead, I just ran the race that was in front of me. It sounds simple, but it changed everything. I wasn’t worrying about numbers. I was just absorbed in the experience, in the runners around me, in the city. It brought back the joy of running.
What are your running goals going forward? Another marathon? Another podium?
I’m definitely going back to Boston. That’s my core group, the place where my running community gathers. I’d like to move up to a 100-mile event someday. I’ve done a 100K, which was basically running around an ice rink, and I have some friends into ultras. If I ever get an entry to Berlin or London, I’d love to do those too.
Looking back, which performances are you most proud of?
New York is right up there - maybe at the top now. Breaking four hours at Boston once I had figured out the course was very meaningful. Chicago last year was special too as I ran a steady 10-minute pace and felt great the whole way. The Majors bring out something in me. There’s a tribal feeling to them, being surrounded by thousands of other runners gives you momentum.
How has your training philosophy changed over the decades?
When I was younger, I obsessed over mileage. If I missed a long run, I panicked. Then it became needing only one good long run. The real key is strength, that’s what keeps me competitive and healthy.
A final look back on New York, what does the race mean to you?
It means everything. The time, the record, the feeling - all of it. But beyond that, I’ve been thinking a lot about legacy. On the flight to New York, I spoke with someone who told me about Charlie Engle running across the Sahara and how that led to clean water for tens of thousands. He asked me what the legacy of 50,000 marathoners is. At the time I didn’t really know how to answer. But once I had time to think, charity fundraising and proving you can achieve things at any age came to mind. There’s also something Nick Thompson said, at its essence it is 50,000 people putting away their phones and just being human together. We don’t do that often enough anymore. It brings us back to something ancient - community and a sense of theatre. As runners and spectators, we’re part of something bigger, New York reminded me of that. And that’s a legacy I’m proud to be part of.
Age Group Races in Focus
Take your pick from some fantastic marathon events to earn your spot in the AbbottWMM Marathon Tours & Travel Age Group World Rankings
California International Marathon (CIM)
December 6, 2026
The California International Marathon (CIM) has earned its reputation as ‘The Fastest Course in the West’ offering runners one of the best chances in the United States to achieve a personal best or secure a Boston qualifying time. Its iconic point-to-point route has remained unchanged for more than four decades, beginning in the rolling foothills of Folsom and finishing at the steps of the historic California State Capitol. With a net downhill of 366 feet and consistently cool December weather, CIM blends favourable conditions, speed and scenery in a way few marathons can match. CIM has welcomed more than 100,000 runners across its storied 42-year history, securing its place as one of the most iconic races in the USA and a must-run event for any marathoner.
Allianz Richmond Marathon
November 14, 2026
Mark your calendar for next fall’s race on November 14, 2026, and experience why the Allianz Richmond Marathon is known as ‘America’s Friendliest Marathon’. The course showcases Richmond’s vibrant street art, scenic river views and historic architecture, all with legendary crowd support and an unforgettable downhill finish that ends in a riverfront celebration. Ranked among the top 25 Boston Marathon qualifying races, this is your chance to run, cheer and celebrate in Virginia’s capital city.
Miami Marathon
January 25, 2026
The Life Time Miami Marathon & Half is one of the most electrifying race experiences in the United States. From the moment the race begins, participants are immersed in Miami’s sensory overload: warm tropical air, sweeping views of turquoise water and the hum of a city that never stops moving. The course showcases Miami at its best. Runners glide past the pastel Art Deco facades of South Beach, cross causeways bathed in sunrise light and trace the waterfront with the stunning Port of Miami as their backdrop. Palm-lined boulevards, vibrant neighbourhoods and cheering crowds create a race-day atmosphere like no other.
Marathon des Alpes-Maritimes Nice-Cannes
November 8, 2026
Come and take part in France's biggest marathon after Paris on the French Riviera and experience the ‘French Riviera Art de Vivre’! Nearly 25,000 runners are expected on November 8, 2026 with those taking part racing from the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice to the Croisette Boulevard in Cannes, a few metres from the steps of the legendary Palais des Festivals. The route crosses five emblematic French Riviera towns: Saint-Laurent-du-Var, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Villeneuve-Loubet, Antibes Juan-les-Pins and Vallauris Golfe-Juan. Each of these towns brings a unique feel to the coastal course, offering a stunning backdrop that combines snow-capped mountains and palm trees. All those involved, spectators and participants alike can enjoy the music, bands and DJs that will be sprinkled along the route.
A Community for Those Who Champion Health Through Running
As a global healthcare company, Abbott’s mission is to help people live healthier, fuller lives.
This year, we created Team Abbott, a community of runners, many of whom have overcome health challenges, who are committed to inspiring others through their running journeys.
In partnering with the Abbott World Marathon Majors, we celebrate the dedication to health that marathoners embody, and we work to create a healthier tomorrow by inspiring more people to take the next step in their health journey.
Marathoners embody the pinnacle of prioritizing physical and mental health. Training requires months of commitment, attention to your diet and sustaining an overall healthy lifestyle.
We also know that marathons inspire people. Each year, more and more runners apply to run the Abbott World Marathon Majors and other running events and we continue to see record numbers of runners participate in races.
To support runners’ journeys, we’re building Team Abbott —a team of runners who have been impacted by health challenges but refused to let those challenges define them.
Runners will be selected to join Team Abbott based on a variety of criteria including the significance of their health journey, the impact they’ve made on others and their community and their connection to Abbott – ultimately, we are looking for individuals whose stories will inspire others to live healthy lives.
Runners who are selected for Team Abbott will get to participate in the Abbott World Marathon Majors and have access to everything they need to run their best race, including Abbott’s health experts, tips from professional and elite marathoners, access to health technology to improve their performance and a team of running advocates cheering them along at each step of the way.
During race weekend, Team Abbott members can get access to exclusive events including meet and greets with elite athletes, private gear check and pre- and post-race hospitality.
To apply for a chance to run a Major with Team Abbott
2017 NEW YORK CITY
MAJOR MOMENT
The sight of a triumphant Shalane Flanagan punching the air as she ran through Central Park on the way to winning the 2017 New York Marathon has become one of the race’s iconic moments.
Roared on by fervent local support who pushed her up the park’s final incline, Flanagan blew a kiss as she crossed the line, becoming the first female American athlete in 30 years to win in New York. No home runner has achieved it since.
“I dreamed of a moment like this since I was a little girl,” she said.
“It took me seven years to do this. In those final miles I was thinking of the people who have helped me be in this position.”
The legend lives on.
A clip of Flanagan visibly emotional during those final steps as the enormity of the moment finally hit her went viral during the lead-up to this year’s TCS New York Marathon.
MEET THE TEAM
From cheering Six Star finishers in New York to helping first-time marathoners chase their dreams, Harrison Redepenning has a front-row seat to the world’s most iconic races. As Runner Support & Customer Service Coordinator at Abbott World Marathon Majors, he combines his own running experience with a passion for supporting athletes across the globe, as we find out here...
How long have you worked at Abbott World Marathon Majors?
I started in February 2024 so approaching two years. I began as the Executive Assistant for our CEO, Dawna and with the growth of our Global Run Club, Six Star Program, Gold Club and Age Group World Championships, shifted roles to the Runner Support and Customer Service Coordinator at the start of 2025.
What does your role as Runner Support & Customer Service Coordinator involve during a typical race week?
Working at expo, attending our Gold Club events and offers. We host a Breakfast with the Boss, Race Director Panels, Run Tours of the city (thanks to our affiliate Go! Running Tours), and for the first time hosted a Gold Club Social for 100 Gold Club members in NYC. On race day you will find me at the Six Star Tent cheering on our Six Star Finishers and Gold Club member runners!
Has your own experience as a runner shaped the way you support runners around the world?
One, or many, cool things about working in this industry is I am always thinking 'what would I want to receive as a Gold Club benefit' or 'what are challenges and opportunities I’d participate in through our Global Run Club'. I also think it’s a lot easier to explain to runners the various programs we have and how we are runners and want to help every single one of them get entry into their dream races.
Have you taken part in any of the Majors, and if so, what is your favorite?
I’ve ran both Boston and NYC. I used to roll my eyes when people say they couldn’t pick a favorite but once you participate in them, or even just work at the finish line, it dawns on you how difficult it is to pick. Boston was my first Major so that experience was unlike any prior race I had ever participated in. NYC was the loudest race I have ever experienced. London was the first race I worked at and I was able to see the start line of a Major for the very first time. Tokyo 2025 had 2000+ Six Star finishers so it was just a party from start to finish and then Chicago in 2025 feels close to home as my home is only a 90-minute plane ride. I still need to experience Berlin and Sydney to get the full comparison going!
And do you have a stand-out memory from when you've been working on any of the events?
Being able to be at the finish line for Kipchoge’s Six Star was pretty surreal as you can imagine!
What’s the most rewarding part of helping runners prepare for some of the world’s biggest marathon events?
The appreciation they show. We know it’s taken a lot of time, energy, money and commitment, so when we are able to help make this journey easier for them they are so appreciative. For me, that is definitely the most rewarding part of the job.
What advice do you give to first-time marathoners who reach out for support?
Pace yourself. From a race standpoint but also from a journey standpoint. You don’t have to do all six/seven races in a single year. It’s a journey for a reason and I think what makes it so rewarding is the time and commitment it takes to complete that journey.
What keeps you motivated?
Knowing everyone on the team is working just as hard and there is also the fact that I am working in the coolest industry imaginable! That said, working in this industry can feel a lot like training for a marathon. There are days when you feel worn down, but you still show up, put in the work, and keep adding to the miles. And just like in running, rest is essential. I’ve learned that if I want to keep improving and 'PR' in my career, I need to take time to recharge, stay healthy and look after myself along the way.
How do you unwind when you’re not working or running?
I am a big American football and baseball fan. I'm based in Minnesota so Vikings and Twins are my teams. Family and friends are incredibly important in my life so I make time to spend time with them often. Truly though, unwinding for me is watching reality TV with my wife, and our 100 pound Golden Retriever!
What are you most excited about in your future - either in your running goals or your career within the marathon world?
Running wise I’d like to set a new marathon PR in 2026, and of course have the goal of obtaining my Six Star Medal. Career wise, I want to continue to gain education, experience and opportunities to grow professionally and grow the various programs we offer. The growth Abbott World Marathon Majors has achieved in less than two years is remarkable, and I’m excited to continue contributing to that momentum.
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