Charles River Marathon
Charles River Marathon is a limited-field Boston fundraiser race built for qualifying attempts, with ten flat paved laps around Herter Park.
Quick facts
- USATF-certified BQ-eligible course with certificate MA23005JK.
- Limited 200-runner field with a rolling fundraising-based entry process.
- Ten-loop course keeps aid, spectators, and pacing feedback close.
About the Charles River Marathon
The RACE Cancer Foundation's Charles River Marathon is a small, fundraising-based Boston race with a reputation for fast qualifier attempts.
Course
The marathon is ten laps of a flat paved loop around Herter Park and the Charles River, keeping logistics compact and splits predictable.
Race-day weather
Early May in Boston is usually cool enough for fast running, though river wind and rain can change pacing plans quickly.
Past Charles River Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, May 3, 2026 | Completed | Open results |
| 2025 | Sunday, May 4, 2025 | Completed | Open results |
| 2024 | Sunday, September 8, 2024 | Completed | Open results |
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Charles River Marathon FAQ
When is the Charles River Marathon?
We're waiting for the finalized date for the 2027 Charles River Marathon. The most recent running was on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
Is Charles River Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. Charles River Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.
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