How to Qualify for the Boston Marathon

Requirements on How to Qualify for the Boston Marathon

Want to know how to qualify for the Boston Marathon? The Boston Marathon is one of the six Abbot World Marathon Majors and arguably the most prestigious marathon in the United States. If you are set on competing in this marathon then you should plan on beating the qualifying. The race has a limited number of slots and only accepts applicants with the fastest race times. The 2 Boston Qualifying Races in Ventura County have ultra fast finish times because of their downhill tracks.

Here’s a few qualifying Guidelines from the Boston Athletic Association

You must be over 18 years of age
Be able to beat the qualifying times as outlined by the Boston Athletic Association
Enter a Boston Marathon Qualifier Race (BQ)
Submit your application during the qualifying window
Have a fast finish time

Try These 3 California BQ Marathons

This guide presents 3 Boston qualifying races in Southern California which are located on the Ventura County Coast. two of the races are downhill and lightning fast. While the other is on a flat seaside course.

Mountains 2 Beach Marathon

Rated by the Boston Athletic Association as a top Boston Marathon Qualifying Race. This ultra fast track begins in the gorgeous mountainside town of Ojai California and gently works its way downhill and finishes at Ventura Beach. The track provides shaded areas, cool breezes and amazing scenery. The Mountains 2 Beach Marathon is held every May which boasts perfect weather for athletic runners. If you’re looking for the best ways on how to qualify for the Boston Marathon, the Mountains 2 Beach Marathon is a top contender.

Silver Strand Beach in Oxnard is one of the best beaches in Ventura County

Official Marathon Website

Official Marathon Website

Ventura Marathon

The Ventura Marathon is rated as one of the top ways on how to qualify for the Boston Marathon by RaceRaves.com If you prefer slightly cooler temperatures then this marathon is perfect for you. Held every February you can bet on consistent weather to keep you going. The Ventura Marathon starts an elevation of 950 feet and descends to a low 25 foot elevation at the finish line.

Seaside Marathon

The Seaside Marathon is a flat course beginning at Emma Wood State Beach and loops though Ventura’s Iconic Highway 1. Set your goals high and you might qualify to run one of the six World Marathon Majors! Finishers will receive goodie bags, finisher’s medals, dry fit shirt, and swag. Stick around post race for complimentary food and drink.

More Reasons to Qualify for The Boston Marathon at Ventura County Coast

Outdoor Activities

A Runner’s Paradise

Perfect weather aside, the Ventura County Coast is home to hiking and running trails of all skill levels. Test your endurance at the Chumash Trail, a 1 mile 1268 foot ascent that is sure to challenge your uphill and downhill endurance levels. Arroyo Verde Park in Ventura provides a moderate trail that’s perfect for runners. You can also try higher elevation trails in the Los Padres National Forest near Ojai where you’ll be able to train for more efficient oxygen intake. And there’s always the miles of sandy beaches and running paths along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. You can also run the 2 Boston qualifying marathon tracks to get you familiar with the course.

Ventura County has the perfect Running Conditions

Weather on the Ventura County Coast is consistent throughout the year. Both Boston Qualifying Marathons here run nearly identical tracks with cool to brisk early morning temperatures and cool finish line temperatures. Both marathons begin in the mountains and finish at the beach.

Weather-Climate: How to qualify for the Boston Marathon

Hotels Near Ventura Beach

There’s Plenty of Hotels near the Finish Line

Recovery is paramount to marathon training and post marathon recovery. Downtown Ventura and the surrounding areas provide a large variety of hotels to choose from. Nothing beats a comfortable bed after running a competitive race. You body will thank you later. Use the button below to find hotel rooms near the finish lines of both races.

Restaurants Abound Everywhere

If you want to qualify for the Boston Marathon then eating good is a must. Downtown Ventura has a wide variety of restaurants within walking distance of the Finish Line. Whether you’re looking for healthy options, vegan fare, or you want to splurge, Downtown Ventura has it all.

Places to Eat

Rest and Revive with outdoor activities.

Decompress and Get Good Vibes

Your body will need lots of “TLC” before after running a marathon. Ventura County Coast is the perfect place to relax your body and mind with healthy activities that can rejuvenate any athlete. The coast provides plenty of options to relax from amazing hotels, day spas, and healthy activities to heal your body and sooth your soul.

Now that you’ve learned how to qualify for the Boston Marathon, it’s up to you to choose where to qualify. Ventura County Coast is home to some places to run in the United States with great climate and ultra fast Boston Qualifier marathons.

Plan your visit

Find hotels and places to stay on the Ventura County Coast.
Find fun and amazing things to do while visiting Ventura County

Tag your Ventura County Coast photos with #VCCVibes for a chance to be featured!

Ventura County Coast

Ventura County Coast is a string of four communities that radiate warmth from welcoming people and California sunshine. The region embodies the casual and active spirit of classic, where the seafood is fresh, the beer is handcrafted and the weather is the kind you dream about. Spend the day exploring miles of beaches, incredible harbors or lush green golf courses. Hop on a boat for a day trip to the Channel Islands National Park, where you can see breathtaking views of the Southern California coastline. With a bustling culture, high end and vintage shopping, a lively culinary spirit and beautiful outdoor experiences, Ventura County Coast calls on every visitor to find their vibe. From hiking and biking to sailing and snorkeling, from shopping and dining to just plain relaxing, Ventura County Coast will fill your days with a lifetime of memories.

Camarillo

An hour north of Los Angeles, Camarillo is nestled at the base of the Conejo foothills surrounded by verdant green fields and cool ocean breezes. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, enjoy Camarillo alfresco. From outdoor shopping and concerts, to delicious dining and fun events, Camarillo has it all. With small town charm and a rich history, it is the place for romantic weddings and corporate venues. Visit the historical sites and museums during the day, and walk along Old Town for dinner and drinks at night. A great getaway for everyone, Camarillo is the ideal place to Come for the Sun, Stay for the Fun.

Learn More

Oxnard

Rally your tribe and head for the Central Coast. California cool, panorama-perfect, culturally authentic and vibrant beyond measure. Oxnard is home to miles of pristine white sand beaches, electric nightlife, some of the best taquerias in the state, historic Victorian era architecture, the California Strawberry Festival, and an expansively picturesque harbor that serves as the closest access point to the Channel Islands National Park. Just sixty miles northwest of LAX and in close proximity to Santa Barbara and other major destinations, Oxnard is one of California’s best kept secrets.