On Lotteries, Qualifiers, Gifted Bibs, & More

Several times a year, usually around Boston Marathon acceptance day and actual race day, a debate whips up on lotteries, qualifiers, and gifted bibs. Races like the Boston Marathon stir up some controversy about the people who actually get to toe the start line. So now that Boston is over, let’s talk about how runners can enter their favorite races.

First Come, First Serve

The most basic form of race registration is plain, old first come, first serve. Registration opens on a publicized date, and runners have the option to sign up until the race is full. It’s a reasonable system, except for incredibly large and popular races, like the runDisney series. On those days, hopeful runners will set alarms and open as many registration screens on as many devices as possible in order to secure their spot. It can be incredibly stressful, especially if you’re trying to organize a group of runners.

The Lottery System

Some popular races offer a lottery system to runners. The races in question find it’s the most equitable way for everyone to have a chance to run. On a certain day, hopeful runners can apply to the lottery. They submit their registration form and credit card information, and then wait for the designated day to see the “Congratulations!” email. This form of registration has a slower build up and burn, but it can be a great way to ensure everyone has a chance to run the race they want. For some events, you can even enter a whole group in the lottery, so you can run together.

Qualifying Entries

The Boston Marathon is one of the only races to accept runners based on qualifying times. Those times are incredibly competitive and are not even a guarantee of entry! Most of Boston’s huge field is comprised of runners who “earned” their spot. Qualifier entries are a badge of honor for sure, but it can freeze out a huge amount of runners who might want a shot at a World Major and lack the physical prowess to meet the time standard.

Charity Bibs

For runners who might want to run a race like Boston, or any other challenging-to-enter events, they sometimes have the option to run with a charity. Runners commit to an organization for a predetermined donation amount in exchange for a bib. They then have time to fundraise to meet that donation amount in advance of the race. Usually, they receive some branded apparel to wear, and the organization may offer some other perk like extra swag, or pre- or post-race events. The donation amount could be as low as $500 and go up to the thousands, but for the right event, it’s worth it!

Sponsor Bibs

Most races fund their efforts with sponsorships. These can be high-paying levels that come with naming rights, or in-kind partnerships that supply hydration or fuel, and everything in between. Higher level sponsorships usually offer race bibs to the participating company as part of their amenity package, and those bibs are distributed at the company’s discretion. Those who receive bibs could be athletes, influencers, or just people who requested one.

What’s your preferred way to enter a race?

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